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. U.S. citizenship required. Unofficial transcripts from all schools must be uploaded prior to applying.
About the role
NSA is seeking experienced Software Engineers to advance high-impact systems and teams. Tools and technologies evolve quickly, with responsibilities spanning the full spectrum of software development. 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.
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
The breadth of technologies NSA uses provides countless opportunities for broadening expertise and leadership growth.
Responsibilities
Common tools and areas of interest include:
- COBOL, C/C++, Java, Python, Rust
- Cloud computing (AWS, Linux/VMWare)
- Front-end frameworks (Angular, React)
- Big data tools (PIG Analytics, PySpark)
- Agile development and CI/CD pipelines
- Containers (Docker, Kubernetes)
- ElasticSearch
- Microservices and Ansible
- Clusters
- Digital forensics and incident response
- Quantum technologies
Beyond technical skills, NSA seeks strong critical thinkers, collaborators, independent self-starters, continuous learners, and flexible contributors.
Requirements
Minimum qualifications require a degree demonstrating a concentration of computer science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas. Degree must be in Computer Science (CS) or Software Engineering. Related fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics) may be considered if the program includes a concentration of courses in:
- Algorithms
- Computer architecture (not network architecture)
- Programming methodologies and languages
- Data structures
- Logic and computation
- Advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus, discrete mathematics)
Relevant experience must be in the software development process, including:
- Requirements analysis
- Software design
- Implementation
- Testing
- Integration
- Deployment/installation
- Maintenance
- Programming
Qualifications
Entry levels for this position:
- Full Performance: Bachelor’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or Doctoral degree with no experience. An Associate’s degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth, clearly related experience.
- Senior: 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, clearly related experience.
Skills
Competencies vary by team but commonly include:
- Docker, AWS, GitLab, open-source contributions (see code.nsa.gov)
- Databases (relational and non-relational)
- Languages: Java, C, C++, Python, and others
- Experience with COBOL or IBM mainframe is preferred
Ideal candidates will have specialized skills or interest in:
- Advanced mathematics (number theory, abstract algebra, linear algebra, probability theory, discrete mathematics)
- Data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and computer architecture
- Proficiency in C/C++, Python, and Java
- Symmetric and asymmetric cryptography (hash functions, encryption, digital signatures, key exchange)
- Protocols like TLS/SSL and network security principles
- Hardware security modules (HSMs) and secure cloud platforms
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), intrusion detection systems (IDS), and vulnerability assessment tools
- Cryptographic libraries, APIs, and adherence to security standards (NIST, ISO 27001, OWASP)
- Teamwork, leadership, and strong interpersonal skills
- Prior Intelligence Community experience is preferred
Pay
Salary offers are based on education level, years of relevant experience, and hiring manager input. Salary range varies by location, work level, and experience.
- Full Performance to Senior: $105,262 – $192,764
Training will be provided based on the selectee’s needs and experience.
Benefits
NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.
Schedule
This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, with an 8-hour workday requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible).