Sr Principal Software Engineer (26-354)

This position does not offer relocation assistance and requires an active, in-scope DoD-issued Secret security clearance to start. No travel is expected.

About the Role

The Command and Control, Battle Management, and Communications (C2BMC) program is a key component of the Missile Defense System. It is a vital operational system that enables the U.S. president, the Secretary of Defense, and combatant commanders at strategic, regional, and operational levels to plan ballistic missile defense operations systematically, collectively monitor the battle, and dynamically control networked sensors and weapon systems to achieve global and regional mission goals.

C2BMC supports layered missile defense capabilities that enable an optimized response to threats across all ranges and flight phases. It serves as a force multiplier by networking, integrating, and synchronizing autonomous sensor and weapon systems and operations, both globally and regionally, to improve performance. C2BMC is essential for all ground and flight tests that verify and demonstrate the current and future capabilities of missile defense systems.

This position is for a Software Engineer on the C2BMC program, focusing on Java software development for one of the Regional Applications teams in Huntsville (Battle Management, System-Arch, or Track Server). The candidate will provide specialized expertise across multiple systems and software disciplines under minimal direction.

Responsibilities

• Perform in-depth analysis and technical support for systems software products, including complex problem resolution, design, development, testing, operational integration, and user support.
• Maintain, debug, and configure related software products.
• Develop or modify operating system applications based on specifications.
• Assist with the design, coding, benchmark testing, debugging, and documentation of programs.
• Interface with other system support groups to resolve problems, set standards, and improve overall system efficiency.
• Design, code, test, and implement tools for operational automation.
• Lead small, software-focused teams as required, with potential Agile team leadership responsibilities.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes continuous learning.
• Apply software development best practices in a multi-team environment.
• Conduct root-cause analysis and resolve performance or operational issues.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field from an accredited university, with 8 years of experience; OR a Master’s degree in a related field with 6 years of relevant work experience; OR 12 years of relevant work experience in lieu of a degree.
• Current, active in-scope DoD-issued Secret security clearance at the time of application (required to start).
• Proficiency in Python and at least one additional object-oriented programming language (e.g., Java, C#, or C++).
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented setting.
• Experience with software practices, including coding standards, automated testing, build pipelines, and configuration management.
• Small team leadership experience (Agile team leadership strongly desired).
• Knowledge of server-side/database development and computer system administration.
• Proven problem-solving abilities, including analyzing performance and operational issues, pinpointing root causes, and proposing effective solutions.
• Experience with common software development and management tools such as Maven, Git/GitHub, Nexus, and Eclipse.
• Experience with Agile development practices.
• Understanding of standard systems engineering design artifacts such as Use Cases and SysML diagrams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in net-centric, horizontal integration programs.
• Strong background supporting software engineering for DoD programs.
• Experience in developing command and control (C2) systems.
• Experience with Agile development methodologies in software engineering.
• Ability to present complex concepts to non-software-engineering audiences, including senior program leadership, government representatives, and military leaders.
• Willingness to take on unanticipated tasking.
• Strong knowledge of Atlassian tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence) to support Agile software development teams.
• Experience in developing enterprise applications on Linux; Windows experience is also a plus.

Benefits

• Health Plan
• Savings Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Education Assistance
• Training and Development
• Flexible Work Arrangements

Pay

Primary salary range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00. The final offer considers factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate experience, education, skills, and current market conditions. Eligible employees may receive overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses reward individual contributions and company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives.