Software Engineer - Mid to Experienced Level (Maryland)

Fort George G. Meade Complex, MD – GG pay plan, grades 11/1 to 14/10. Open from 2026-08-10 to 2026-08-23.

About the role

NSA is seeking experienced Software Engineers to advance high-impact systems and teams. Tools and technologies used evolve quickly, with systems and responsibilities spanning the full spectrum. Beyond technical skills, we need strong critical thinkers, collaborators, independent self-starters, continuous learners, and flexible contributors.

As a Software Engineer at NSA, you can focus on virtually any area of computer science including cybersecurity, high-performance computing (HPC), quantum computing research, data analytics, machine learning/artificial intelligence (ML/AI), cryptology/cryptography, complex algorithms, large-scale platform development, and many others. The sheer breadth of technologies NSA uses provides countless opportunities for broadening your expertise and leadership growth. Your work will protect the nation by providing U.S. policy and decision makers with critical, timely intelligence, thwarting foreign adversaries, and defending vital networks.

Please upload a copy of your transcripts from all schools attended prior to applying for this position. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at this stage. Minimum qualifications require a degree that demonstrates a concentration of computer science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas.

Responsibilities

• Engage in software development processes including requirements analysis, software design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment/installation, and maintenance.
• Work with a variety of tools and technologies such as COBOL, C/C++, Java, cloud computing, Angular, React, Python, PIG Analytics, Pyspark, agile development, CI/CD, containers and Docker, Kubernetes, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Linux (VMWare), ElasticSearch, Rust, microservices, Ansible, clusters, digital forensics, incident response, and quantum computing.
• Apply industry norms including Docker, AWS, GitLab, open source (see code.nsa.gov for examples), databases (both relational and non-relational), and various programming languages (Java, C, C++, Python, etc.).

Requirements

The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.

• Degree must be in Computer Science (CS) or Software Engineering. Related fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics) may be considered relevant if the programs contain, at minimum, a concentration of courses in foundational CS areas: algorithms; computer architecture (not network architecture); programming methodologies and languages; data structures; logic and computation; and advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus, discrete mathematics).
• Relevant experience must be in the software development process and programming.

Qualifications

Full Performance:

• Entry with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or
• Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or
• Doctoral degree and no experience.
• An Associate's degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience clearly related to the position.

Senior:

• Entry with a Bachelor's degree plus 6 years of relevant experience, or
• Master's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or
• Doctoral degree plus 2 years of relevant experience.
• An Associate's degree plus 8 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience clearly related to the position.

Skills

• Strong background in advanced mathematics (e.g., number theory, abstract algebra, linear algebra, probability theory, discrete mathematics).
• Solid grasp of data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and computer architecture.
• Proficiency in languages like C/C++, Python, and Java.
• Knowledge of both symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, including hash functions, encryption, digital signatures, and key exchange.
• Familiarity with protocols like TLS/SSL and network security principles for secure communications.
• Understanding of hardware security modules (HSMs) and other secure computing (cloud) platforms.
• Familiarity with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), intrusion detection systems (IDS), and vulnerability assessment tools.
• Knowledge of cryptographic libraries, APIs, and adherence to security standards (NIST, ISO 27001, and OWASP guidelines).
• Experience with COBOL or IBM mainframe is preferred.
• Teamwork, leadership, and good interpersonal skills.
• Prior Intelligence Community experience is preferred.

Pay

Salary offers are based on candidates' education level and years of experience relevant to the position, and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position.

Salary Range: $105,262 - $192,764 (Full Performance, Senior). Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position.

Benefits

NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Schedule

This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with a basic 8-hour/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).