Principal Rust Software Engineer (Analytics & R&D)

Description We are seeking a Principal Rust Software Engineer to design and develop high-performance, analytics-driven systems supporting mission-critical research and product development initiatives. This role provides technical leadership in modern software engineering, leveraging Rust-based systems programming, data-intensive architectures, and advanced analytics pipelines to deliver scalable, resilient, and production-ready capabilities. You will work across the full lifecycle—from concept and prototyping to productization—enabling rapid innovation and transition into operational environments. Primary Responsibilities Serve as a technical thought leader in systems programming, analytics, and modern software development practices. Design and develop high-performance applications in Rust, emphasizing safety, concurrency, and efficiency. Architect and implement data pipelines, analytics frameworks, and real-time processing systems to support R&D and product initiatives. Leverage open-source and commercial tools to build scalable, modular, and reusable software components. Apply software engineering best practices to ensure integration across infrastructure, applications, and data systems. Collaborate within Agile teams, participating in daily scrums and frequent technical exchanges. Troubleshoot and resolve complex system, performance, and data challenges. Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks across research and product development efforts. Rapidly prototype and iterate on new ideas, transitioning successful concepts into production-grade solutions. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and 12+ years of relevant technical experience in software engineering, systems engineering, data science, or related fields (additional years experience may substitute for degree). Strong experience developing in Rust (or equivalent systems languages such as C++ with willingness to transition). Experience building data-intensive applications, analytics platforms, or distributed systems. Proficiency with modern software development practices, including CI/CD and Agile methodologies. Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems and bring structure to ambiguous or unstructured data challenges. Experience with data processing, analytics, or machine learning frameworks (e.g., Python ecosystem, Spark, or similar). Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment. Strong written and verbal communication skills. U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Computer Science, Engineering, or related discipline. Experience in research environments, including rapid prototyping and experimental system development. Familiarity with high-performance computing, distributed systems, or edge computing architectures. Experience translating R&D concepts into production-ready products or platforms. Background working with cross-functional teams, including researchers, product managers, and external partners. Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance. Pay Range $131,300.00 – $237,350.00 Pay and Benefits Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. Commitment to Non-Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr