Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist, Level 3

Independent Software, Inc.; Maryland; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing training and mentorship

Competitive compensation

Generous benefits

Work-life balance

Job summary

Independent Software, Inc. is seeking a Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist Level 3 in Maryland. In this role, you will design algorithms and develop mathematical models focused on cryptography and security to support national security operations. Your responsibilities include optimizing cryptographic processes and working collaboratively with teams to create innovative solutions.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in computer science, mathematics, or engineering, with experience in high-performance computing and programming languages like Python and C++. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in computer science, mathematics, or engineering with focus on cryptography.
• Experience with mathematical models and techniques for solving complex problems.
• Knowledge of cryptographic principles and vulnerability analysis.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and evaluate algorithms for cryptographic and security challenges.
• Develop mathematical models to analyze cryptographic systems.
• Collaborate with teams to develop innovative solutions for national security.

Skills

Cryptography and algorithm development

Analytical problem-solving

Programming (Python, C++, Java)

Mathematical modeling

High-performance computing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field

Tools

Python

C++

Spark

XKS

Job description

What You Will Do

At Independent Software, as a Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist Level 3, you will apply your expertise in computer science, mathematics, and engineering to solve complex cryptographic and security challenges supporting mission‑critical operations. You will design algorithms, develop mathematical models, and analyze vulnerabilities in cryptographic systems to protect sensitive information and ensure secure computing environments.

In this role, you will contribute to high‑performance computing initiatives, optimize cryptographic processes, and collaborate with technical teams to develop innovative solutions that directly support national security missions. You will also support building and maintaining data analytics capabilities, including data evaluation, enrichment, and processing for relevant datasets using technologies such as Python, Spark, C++, and XKS. This is an opportunity to work at the forefront of cryptography, advanced analytics, and secure system design.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and evaluate algorithms to address complex cryptographic and security‑related problems.
• Develop and apply mathematical models and techniques to analyze cryptographic systems and identify vulnerabilities.
• Analyze and assess cryptographic implementations to identify weaknesses and recommend secure solutions.
• Support the development of secure systems to protect sensitive information against evolving threats.
• Contribute to high‑performance computing efforts to improve efficiency and scalability of cryptographic processes.
• Apply advanced computer science and mathematical principles across diverse computing environments.
• Build and maintain data analytics solutions, including data evaluation, enrichment, and processing for mission‑relevant datasets.
• Develop and support analytics workflows using technologies such as Python, Spark, C++, and XKS.
• Collaborate with engineers, analysts, and mission stakeholders to support secure system design and implementation.
• Document technical approaches, findings, and solutions for both technical and non‑technical audiences.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Strong foundation in computer science, mathematics, or engineering with a focus on cryptography and algorithm development.
• Experience designing, developing, or evaluating mathematical models, methods, or techniques to solve complex problems.
• Knowledge of cryptographic principles, secure systems, and vulnerability analysis.
• Experience with high‑performance computing or optimization techniques.
• Strong programming skills in one or more languages (e.g., Python, C++, Java).
• Solid mathematical background, including coursework in Calculus and higher‑level mathematics.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree plus eight (8) years of relevant experience; OR
• Master’s degree plus six (6) years of relevant experience; OR
• Doctoral degree plus four (4) years of relevant experience; OR
• Associate’s degree plus ten (10) years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in‑depth experience clearly related to the position.
• Degree must be in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics (including Applied Mathematics), or a related field (e.g., Engineering or Mathematics) and include at least one programming course and a minimum of four upper‑level mathematics courses (Calculus and above).
• Relevant experience must be in a computer science area (theoretical or applied), including designing, developing, using, or evaluating mathematical models, methods, and techniques (e.g., algorithm development) to solve complex problems, engineering challenges (electrical or computer), and/or high‑performance computing environments.

Clearance Requirement

• Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role.

Why Choose Independent Software

At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.

• Support critical national security missions that matter.
• Be part of a close‑knit, employee‑first culture where your voice is heard.
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development.
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work‑life balance.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.