Middleware Software Engineer

Job Title: Middleware Software Engineer

Job Description

This role supports mission-critical Navy and DoD systems by designing, developing, and integrating high-performance middleware and distributed software components using C++ and Java on Linux platforms. The engineer contributes to modernizing large-scale programs, building prototypes, and implementing robust communication frameworks that enable secure, reliable, and scalable system-of-systems solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and integrate software components using C++ and Java in a Linux operating system environment.

• Implement and optimize Linux/Unix socket programming to support high-performance, low-latency communications.

• Develop and integrate middleware technologies such as gRPC, Google Protocol Buffers, and other distributed middleware frameworks.

• Architect and implement publish-subscribe communication patterns for distributed systems to ensure reliable and scalable data exchange.

• Collaborate on computer networking tasks including protocol design, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and performance tuning.

• Apply common design patterns in Java and C++ to produce scalable, maintainable, and testable code.

• Utilize containerization technologies such as Docker to package and deploy software components consistently across environments.

• Use modern build infrastructure tools such as Gradle and CMake to configure, build, and manage software projects.

• Participate in research activities and proof-of-concept prototyping to explore new technologies and approaches for system modernization.

• Contribute to whitepapers, system rearchitecture planning, and technical documentation to support decision-making and stakeholder communication.

• Engage in design reviews and technical deep dives with government and program stakeholders to refine system architectures and implementation approaches.

• Support the modernization of legacy systems and integration of multiple systems into cohesive system-of-systems solutions.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure software meets performance, security, and reliability requirements for Navy and DoD programs.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related discipline.

• 5+ years of experience in software development using C++ or Java in Linux environments.

• Hands-on experience with Linux operating systems, including development and debugging in a Linux environment.

• 5+ years of experience with Linux/Unix socket programming for networked applications.

• Experience with middleware frameworks such as gRPC and Google Protocol Buffers.

• Proficiency in C++ programming, including object-oriented design and use of modern language features.

• Proficiency in Java programming for backend or middleware services.

• Experience developing middleware or distributed systems components in Linux environments.

• Eligibility for a Secret security clearance and ability to obtain it prior to starting in the role.

• Ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot high-performance communication mechanisms in distributed systems.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with publish-subscribe architectures and distributed systems design.

• Understanding of computer networking principles, including protocols, routing, and performance considerations.

• Experience with containerization technologies such as Docker for packaging and deployment.

• Familiarity with modern build systems such as Gradle and CMake.

• Prior experience supporting Navy or Department of Defense programs.

• Experience with legacy system modernization, including refactoring or rearchitecting existing systems.

• Experience with system-of-systems integration in complex, distributed environments.

• Exposure to CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices for automated build, test, and deployment.

• Experience with middleware technologies such as Kafka or Apache-based messaging frameworks.

• Ability to contribute to technical whitepapers, design documentation, and system rearchitecture plans.

• Strong collaboration skills for working with government and program stakeholders in technical reviews and planning sessions.

Work Environment

This position is 100% on-site at a secure facility in Manassas, Virginia. The engineer works in secure laboratory environments that support sensitive Navy and DoD programs. Personal phones and similar devices are not permitted inside the secure labs, and access is controlled to maintain security. The labs provide a professional setting with windows and a traditional office-like atmosphere rather than a harsh industrial environment. The role involves working directly with advanced submarine electronics and cloud-related technologies, including AWS-focused solutions, as part of large-scale modernization efforts. Work is performed on Linux-based systems using tools such as Docker, Gradle, CMake, and various middleware technologies, in close collaboration with technical teams and stakeholders on-site.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Manassas, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $70.00 - $90.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Manassas,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 22, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.