Senior Software Engineer

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to be part of our Advanced Capabilities team and based out of our Arlington, VA location.

 
We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer with expertise in U.S. Navy tactical combat systems to support a fast-paced, customer-focused test and experimentation team. This role requires deep experience in designing, developing, integrating, and testing complex software products in mission-critical environments. This role applies interdisciplinary engineering principles to ensure that software, networks, and mission systems operate effectively, securely, and in compliance with Department of Defense standards and regulations.

Clearance & Location Requirements:

• All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
• This is a fully on-site position, based out of our Arlington, VA location.

Key Responsibilities

What You Will Do: 

• Support full development lifecycle including system design, implementation, integration, test, and deployment of complex systems supporting DoD and Navy operational.
• Conduct architecture analysis for distributed combat systems (hardware/software/network).
• Design, develop, and maintain real-time software systems supporting Navy combat systems and tactical data processing
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including program management, cybersecurity, software development, hardware engineering, logistics, and test organizations.
• Support system certification, verification, and validation activities in accordance with DoD standards.
• Provide technical leadership in design reviews, code reviews, and system-level engineering discussions.
• Develop software interfaces to communicate across network protocols such as TCP/UDP, DDS, ActiveMQ, Kafka, RabbitMQ 
• Participate in technical reviews (MRA, MRR, DAWG, TWEG, etc.) and support government and stakeholder briefings.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Who You Are (Required):

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or related STEM field or equivalent relevant full-time experience.
• 7+ years of relevant experience in system engineering or integration roles.
• Strong proficiency in C++, Java, or other real-time systems programming languages.
• Experience with Linux/Unix-based environments and real-time operating systems.
• Proficiency working with version control software like Git, SVN and software development environments
• Understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle
• Strong system integration and test experience, including distributed and tactical systems.
• Strong understanding of systems engineering processes, including requirements traceability and configuration management.
• Experience leading test execution and integration activities across functional teams
• Experience supporting U.S. Navy combat systems integration, testing, or sustainment.
• Strong understanding of real-time distributed systems, radar systems, and weapon control logic
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing priorities and execute multiple concurrent assignments.
• Ability to travel up to 25%.

 

What Makes You Stand Out:

• Active Secret Clearance
• Experience with Navy surface warfare systems and tactical applications (e.g., Aegis Weapon System, SSDS, Link-16).
• Experience in technical leadership or principal engineering roles.
• Knowledge of missile defense, air and missile warfare, or integrated fire control systems.
• Develop and maintain interface control documents (ICDs) across fire control and command subsystems
• Experience developing, testing, and troubleshooting large-scale or distributed DoD software systems.
• Experience supporting rapid prototyping, experimentation, integration, and capability demonstrations.

 

If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network.

Pay Range*: $135,000 - $231,000 or $164,000 - $273,000 

This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience. 

Job Benefits

Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):

IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:

• Generous package 
• Competitive PTO 
• Paid holidays 
• 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching 
• 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
• Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
• Professional Development Resources 
• Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
• Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards 
• Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches 

 

EEO Statement:

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.

About Innovative Defense Technologies

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is a leading defense technology company focused on rapidly delivering mission-critical software and systems solutions to the U.S. government. The company specializes in automation, digital engineering, and enabling the rapid integration of advanced capabilities into complex weapon and combat systems. These essential solutions empower the warfighter to field, operate, and sustain decisive capability at speed and scale.

 

At IDT, our employees are developing advanced mission-critical outcomes by consistently delivering high-quality results, fostering innovation, applying rigorous problem-solving, and effectively collaborating across multifaceted teams and stakeholders. Grounded in these competencies, IDT translates complex customer priorities into robust software solutions.