Associate Software Engineer

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan with employer-contribs

Tuition benefits

Paid time off

Life insurance

Transit pass

Childcare support

Fitness center access

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s Software Engineering Institute (CMU SEI) is seeking an Associate Software Engineer to join the Enabling Edge Intelligence (E2I) team. You will help prototype, mature, and deploy intelligent edge software with world-class researchers and sponsors, solving high-impact problems for defense and government projects.

You will work across the software development life cycle, applying modern workflows, DevOps practices, and agentic AI tools to deliver reliable, secure

Qualifications

• BS or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical discipline.
• At least 3 years of hands-on experience in designing, developing, and deploying software systems.

Skills

SDLC

Programming: Python

Programming: C++

Programming: C

Programming: Java

DevOps

AI workflows

Growth mindset

Git

Docker/Kubernetes

CI/CD

Communication

Education

BS in CS/Software Eng

Tools

Git

Docker/Kubernetes

CI/CD

Job description

What We Do

The Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is a premier national research center dedicated to advancing software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. We work at the intersection of defense, government, industry, and academia to solve some of the nation’s most complex software challenges. Our mission: enable organizations to build, deploy, and scale resilient, secure, defect‑free software systems that perform reliably in critical operational environments.

Position Summary

At the SEI’s Enabling Edge Intelligence (E2I) team, we bridge the gap between cutting‑edge AI and edge systems research and real‑world deployment. Our team of software engineers, researchers, and data scientists designs and optimizes intelligent edge systems for operation in resource‑constrained edge environments where safety, reliability, and performance are essential. We are seeking a driven Associate Software Engineer eager to shape the future of intelligent edge systems. In this role, you will collaborate with world‑class faculty, leading researchers, and industry to prototype, mature, and transition technologies to government and defense organizations. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of intelligent edge systems, mastering next‑generation software engineering workflows, and solving high‑impact technical problems, E2I is the place for you to accelerate your career.

Requirements

Education: BS or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Experience: At least 3 years of hands‑on experience in designing, developing, and deploying software systems. Travel: Willingness to travel (less than 10%) to engage with the CMU community, present at conferences, and work alongside sponsor organizations. Security Clearance: You will be subject to a background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Department of War security clearance (requires background investigation).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Core Software Engineering: Solid foundation in software engineering principles across the full software development life cycle (SDLC).
• Programming Proficiency: Strong coding skills in at least one core language, such as Python, C++, C, or Java.
• Deployment & DevOps: Practical experience deploying software into local or cloud environments, with familiarity in DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines.
• AI‑Assisted Workflows: Experience with leveraging generative AI and agentic tools to streamline coding, debugging, and deployment workflows.
• Growth Mindset: Strong curiosity and enthusiasm for learning new languages, frameworks, and edge technologies on the fly.
• Tooling & Collaboration: Comfort using software management and orchestration platforms (e.g., Git, Atlassian Suite, Docker/K8s).
• Problem‑Solving & Communication: Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to articulate technical concepts clearly within multi‑disciplinary, agile teams.

Desired Experience

• At least 3 years of hands‑on experience in designing, developing, and deploying edge systems or performance‑critical software.
• Hands‑on experience building, testing, or deploying agentic AI systems.
• Background or strong interest in software architecture and edge system optimization.
• Practical exposure to AI/ML model training, evaluation, and systems integration.

Benefits

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits. Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well‑deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more! At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Software/Applications Development/Engineering

Position Type

Staff – Regular Full Time/Part time Full time Pay Basis Salary More Information: Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world. Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. Statement of Assurance Interested in a career with Carnegie Mellon University but not finding anything that currently aligns with your interests, background, or experience? Learn how to sign up for Job Alerts through your candidate profile. If your heart is in your work, come work with us. Carnegie Mellon University isn’t just one of the world’s most renowned educational institutions – it’s also a hotspot for some of the most talented doers, dreamers, and difference‑makers on the planet. When you join our staff, you’ll become an important part of our mission to create a healthier, safer, and more just life for all. No matter what your role or location, you’ll connect and collaborate with dedicated, passionate colleagues – and you’ll have the satisfaction of delivering work that truly matters. We cultivate a vibrant, welcoming environment where everyone is valued and encouraged to contribute and achieve. In addition to competitive benefits and a robust support network, you’ll have access to many tools and resources to sharpen your abilities and professional skills, as well as opportunities to engage and share perspectives with a dynamic and inspiring community of uniquely talented staff, faculty, students, and alumni. The future is awaiting your expertise and intellect. Come join the architects of what’s next. Learn more about Student Employment. Please see Faculty Careers. For technical assistance, email HR Services or call 412-268-4600. We are committed to providing an accessible experience throughout our recruitment process. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation at any stage of the application, interview, or hiring process, please contact Equal Opportunity Services by email at [e-mail] or by phone at 412-268-5072. Prospective Employee Disclosures