Software Engineer - Mid to Experienced Level (Maryland)

Fort George G. Meade Complex, MD – GG pay plan, grades 11/1 to 14/10. Open: 2026-08-10, Close: 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 the full software development lifecycle: requirements analysis, software design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment/installation, and maintenance.
• Work with a diverse set of tools and technologies, including but not limited to:
  • Languages: COBOL, C/C++, Java, Python, Rust
  • Frameworks & Libraries: Angular, React, PIG Analytics, Pyspark
  • Methodologies: Agile development, continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD)
  • Platforms & Tools: Containers and Docker, Kubernetes, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Linux (VMWare), ElasticSearch, Ansible, clusters
  • Domains: Digital forensics, incident response, quantum computing, microservices, cryptography
• Apply critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership to solve complex technical challenges.
• Adapt to evolving technologies and contribute to high-impact projects across various domains.

Qualifications

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

• Degree Requirements: Computer Science (CS) or Software Engineering. Related fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics) may be considered if the program includes a concentration of courses in foundational CS areas:
  • 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 (requirements analysis, software design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment/installation, and maintenance) and programming.
• Experience Levels:
  • Full Performance: 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, 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

With a broad range of positions available, tools, platforms, and methodologies will vary. Use of industry norms is common, including:

• Docker, AWS, GitLab, open-source contributions (see code.nsa.gov for examples)
• Databases (both relational and non-relational)
• Languages: Java, C, C++, Python, and others
• Candidates with experience in COBOL or IBM mainframe are preferred

The ideal candidate will have specialized skills or interest in one or more of the following:

• 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 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 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, OWASP guidelines)
• Teamwork, leadership, and strong interpersonal skills
• Prior Intelligence Community experience is preferred

Pay

Salary offers are based on candidates' education level, years of relevant experience, and information provided by the hiring manager regarding the work level for the position.

• Salary Range: $105,262 – $192,764 (Full Performance, Senior). Range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience.

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). Training will be provided based on the selectee's needs and experience.