Computer Scientist (Software/Cloud Architect)

US Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency; Hanover (MD); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

US Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency in Maryland seeks a senior Software Engineer specializing in API Integration to lead the design and development of cloud-native applications focused on scalable, secure software systems.

The role requires technical leadership, deep expertise in modern software architecture, and the ability to drive innovation within the agency, with emphasis on containerization and API management using Docker, Kubernetes, and related technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field with calculus coursework.
• Transcript submission is required to be eligible for this position.
• Specialized experience in designing, developing, and deploying enterprise-level software systems.
• Experience with cloud-native and micro-services architectures and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Proficiency in multiple programming languages and API design/management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of cloud-native applications.
• Drive API integration and management across services.
• Provide technical leadership and make architectural decisions.
• Ensure security, scalability, and reliability of software solutions.

Skills

API design

Cloud-native architectures

Programming languages

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

This position is for a senior Software Engineer specializing in API Integration. The incumbent will lead the design and development of cloud-native applications, focusing on creating scalable, secure, and resilient software systems. This role requires technical leadership, deep expertise in modern software architecture, and the ability to drive innovation within the organization. Visit www.dcsa.mil to learn more about DCSA, America's Gatekeeper!

This position has a Basic Requirement for the 1550: Bachelor's degree in computer science or bachelor's degree with 30 semester hours in a combination of mathematics, statistics, and computer science. At least 15 of the 30 semester hours must have included any combination of statistics and mathematics that included differential and integral calculus. All academic degrees and course work must be from accredited or pre-accredited institutions.

*NOTE: Failure to provide transcripts will result in you being rated ineligible for this position.

The experience described in your resume will be evaluated and screened from the Office of Personnel Management's (OPMs) basic qualifications requirements. See: Computer Science Series 1550 for OPM qualification standards, competencies and specialized experience needed to perform the duties of the position as described in the MAJOR DUTIES and QUALIFICATIONS sections of this announcement by 09/14/2026

Applicant must have directly applicable experience that demonstrates the possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities and competencies necessary for immediate success in the position. Qualifying experience may have been acquired in any public or private sector job, but will clearly demonstrate past experience in the application of the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to successfully perform the duties of the position.

You must have specialized experience sufficient to demonstrate that you have acquired all the competencies necessary to perform at a level equivalent in difficulty, responsibility, and complexity to the next lower grade (GS/GG-14) in the Federal service and are prepared to take on greater responsibility.

Generally, this would include one year or more of such specialized experience.

Specialized experience for this position includes: Experience in designing, developing, and deploying enterprise-level software systems, particularly with a focus on cloud-native and micro-services architectures. Experience with containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes), data ingestion pipelines, Application Programming Interface (API) design and management, and proficiency in multiple programming languages. Experience in leading technical projects, making architectural decisions, and ensuring the security and scalability of software solutions.

Specifically you will be evaluated on the following competencies:

1. Software Development: Expert knowledge in designing, developing, and testing software in a given environment, with a focus on micro-services and cloud-native applications.
2. Systems Integration: Proven ability in installing, integrating, and optimizing information systems components, particularly within a cloud environment.
3. Programming: Proficiency in implementing design solutions and applying programming languages across multiple platforms and development frameworks.
4. Information Technology Architecture: Strong understanding of architectural methodologies used in the design and development of complex information systems.
5. Technical Documentation Development: Experience in developing and maintaining technical and operational documentation to support the software life-cycle.