Senior Software Engineer

Salary: $105,000 - 245,000 per year Requirements:

• We require a bachelors degree in computer science, software engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related technical discipline.
• We require at least 10 years of experience delivering complex or enterprise-scale software systems in operational or near-operational settings.
• We require strong proficiency in C++ and comfort working in large, multi-module or multi-service codebases.
• We require practical experience with Python or MATLAB for algorithm development, analytics, modeling, or prototyping.
• We require experience developing primarily in Linux/Unix environments with command-line tools, scripting, and automated build and deployment workflows.
• We require hands-on experience with cloud infrastructure such as AWS, Azure, GCP, or private cloud platforms, with an understanding of secure and reliable service design.
• We require familiarity with containerization and orchestration tools such as Docker and Kubernetes, or similar technologies.
• We require experience applying DevSecOps practices, including CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and integrated security scanning.
• We require experience working in Agile software development environments such as Scrum or Kanban and collaborating across cross-functional teams.
• We require clear written and verbal communication skills and the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• We require the ability to work independently as a self-starter while contributing effectively in a multidisciplinary, mission-focused team.
• We require the ability to periodically travel to and work at military facilities as needed.
• We require familiarity with design patterns such as MVC architectures.
• We require experience with version control branching models and configuration management techniques.
• We require the ability to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by the start date and ultimately qualify for TS/SCI access, including U.S. citizenship and successful completion of a government security investigation.
• Preferred: a masters or doctorate in a related technical field.
• Preferred: experience leading large or multi-team software efforts and coordinating integration across multiple components or services.
• Preferred: experience designing and operating cloud-native systems with strong reliability and observability practices.
• Preferred: familiarity with DevSecOps toolchains such as Jenkins, GitLab CI, GitHub Actions, Terraform, Ansible, Docker, Kubernetes, and SAST/DAST tools.
• Preferred: experience building rich mission-focused user experiences or visualization-heavy applications using modern JavaScript frameworks such as React or Angular.
• Preferred: experience applying Agile at scale in complex or multi-organization environments.
• Preferred: background in defense, intelligence, or related mission domains, including work with operational users, classified environments, government sponsors, or contractors.
• Preferred: recognition as a technical authority and collaborative leader who can influence technical strategy, engineering culture, and best practices.
• Preferred: proficiency in Java.
• Preferred: experience with message brokers, databases, load balancers, reverse proxies, REST interfaces, JSON, XML, and related geospatial or mission data formats.
• Preferred: active TS/SCI clearance.

• We provide technical leadership for an APL team focused on software development and deployment for national security capabilities.
• We lead the architecture and design of complex mission-critical systems with an emphasis on scalability, resilience, performance, security, and maintainability.
• We implement and continuously improve modern engineering practices, including Agile methods, DevSecOps, CI/CD, automated testing, and infrastructure as code.
• We design and build interoperable, modular, and adaptable software components for enterprise and operational environments.
• We develop and integrate software in C++, Java, and/or Python, using Docker and Kubernetes where appropriate.
• We own end-to-end delivery of key capabilities from concept and prototyping through integration, deployment, and sustainment.
• We collaborate with systems engineers, project managers, mission stakeholders, and partner organizations to turn mission needs into practical software solutions.
• We reinforce disciplined engineering through code review, technical documentation, and adherence to quality and security standards.
• We identify and manage technical risk and technical debt, driving refactoring and ongoing system improvement.
• We mentor junior and mid-level engineers and foster a culture of learning, curiosity, and excellence within Agile teams.
• We contribute to technical roadmaps and strategy so our software aligns with mission goals, enterprise standards, and sponsor requirements.

• AWS
• Angular
• Ansible
• Azure
• CI/CD
• Cloud
• DevSecOps
• Docker
• GCP
• GitHub
• GitLab
• Support
• JSON
• Java
• JavaScript
• Jenkins
• Kanban
• Kubernetes
• Linux
• Matlab
• MVC
• Python
• REST
• React
• Security
• Terraform
• Unix
• XML
• Architect
• DevOps
• LESS
• SQL
• microservices

More:

We are the Mission Engineering Group at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory within the Force Projection Sector, and we build enterprise-grade, distributed software and decision-support tools that help warfighters combine sensors, weapons, and platforms for precision strike missions critical to national defense. We value engineering rigor, collaboration, continuous improvement, innovation, and technical excellence across the software lifecycle. At APL, we solve complex defense, security, space, and science challenges in a welcoming environment where people can grow, bring their authentic selves to work, and connect with inspiring teammates. We offer generous benefits, including education assistance, strong retirement contributions, work/life balance, and a comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, paid time off, and training and development. Our campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

last updated 35 week of 2026