Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist, Level 3 with Security Clearance

Independent Software; Maryland; On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) Profit Sharing

Paid time off

Paid training

Work-life balance

Job summary

Independent Software is a premier cryptography and security-focused engineering firm in Annapolis Junction, MD. We seek a Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist Level 3 to join a mission-driven team working on cryptographic challenges, high-performance computing, and data analytics across national-security-relevant datasets.

You will design algorithms, build mathematical models, and analyze vulnerabilities in cryptographic systems using Python, C++, and Java.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in cryptography, algorithms, and secure systems.
• Experience designing or evaluating mathematical models for complex problems.
• Proficiency in at least one major programming language and solid analytical abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design and evaluate cryptographic algorithms and security solutions.
• Develop mathematical models to analyze crypto systems and identify weaknesses.
• Collaborate with engineers and mission stakeholders to implement secure, high-performance solutions.
• Document approaches and results for technical audiences.

Skills

Cryptography

Programming

HPC

Math

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in CS

Tools

Python

C++

Java

Job description

Who are we? Independent Software is a consulting, product, and solutions firm dedicated to the practical application of software and system engineering technologies to solve complex problems. We bring together world class engineers with proven engineering best practices, domain expertise, commercial technologies, and proven agile management approaches to create high value solutions aimed at helping our customers meet their most critical business and mission objectives. Why Independent Software? We are focused on continual learning and evolution. We don’t do things because “that’s the way we’ve always done things”; we listen to our employees and adapt to the changing marketplace. We look at the big picture and encourage our engineers to get training and certifications in emerging technologies that will help shape our customer’s mission. We’ve been profitable year after year. We’re always on the lookout for great engineers to join the team and we recognize that our employees are the heart and soul of what we do. We focus on recruiting talented people, treating them right, and then allowing them to do what they do best. No red tape. No micromanagement. Smart people want to work with smart people, and we love people who are passionate about what they do and finding ways to do it better.

Top Reasons to Work at Independent Software

• Great people deserve even better benefits, from comprehensive healthcare coverage and generous leave time to discounts with all our vendors.
• You are not just a job title. That's why we tip the work-life balance scale in your favor. It's not about being billable, it's about being valuable.
• Whether you're working on-site or in our offices, your role at Independent Software is just as critical to our success as your coworker's.
• We're constantly researching and implementing the latest technology, so you've always got the right tools at your disposal.
• As we've grown, we've retained that small company feel. When we say we have an open-door policy, we actually mean it.
• Independent Software is comprised of wonderfully generous folks. We believe in supporting the causes our employees care about. Bring us an opportunity to help and we'll listen.
• Teamwork got us where we are today. Our collaborative environment allows you to maximize your true potential.
• The work we do is exciting, critical stuff. No matter your role at Independent Software, you're helping us keep the nation safe and secure.
• We have a history of great achievement, and, with each year, our company gets even bigger and better. As we grow, so does the opportunity for our employees.
• We host a variety of fun employee and family events throughout the year to say thanks for all that you do to make Independent Software a technology leader as well as a phenomenal place to work.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Company Sponsored Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans
• Company Paid Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability and Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Your retirement plan is an important benefit you shouldn’t overlook. We offer a 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust that offers a powerful way to enhance your long-term financial well-being by investing in yourself. We offer immediate eligibility and company matching.
• A generous Paid Time Off and Holiday package
• Paid training! We encourage all employees to seek out training opportunities like conferences, certification courses and seminars.
• We truly believe the right work-life balance can exist, and it's here at Independent Software. Our work is extremely important, but your job is just a part of who you are. When you enjoy your life outside of our walls, you're at your best the next time you walk through our doors. We do all we can to assure that happens every day.

Cryptanalytic Computer Scientist, Level 3, Annapolis Junction, MD, Full Time, Software Engineering, Mid Level

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

• 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.

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.