Lead Software Engineer — AI-Driven Defense (C++/Python)

Leidos Inc

Huntsville (AL)

On-site

USD 131,000 - 237,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Leidos Defense seeks a Lead Software Engineer in Huntsville, AL to guide the IFPC software team, focusing on C++ and Python development for counter-UAS and missile defense. You will act as the technical lead, shaping direction, mentoring engineers, and driving high-quality code in a SAFe environment.

The role emphasizes agentic AI coding practices, secure environments, and a growth path into people management as the team scales.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related technical discipline with 12+ years of software development experience, or equivalent advanced degree.
Strong proficiency in C++ and Python.
Experience coaching and leading a software team as a technical lead.
Experience in Agile/SAFe environments and with Jira and GitLab.

Responsibilities

Serve as the technical lead and design authority for the IFPC software team, mentoring engineers and driving quality.
Operationalize agentic AI-assisted software development across the team with workflows and tooling.
Coach engineers in AI-assisted development through pairing, reviews, and playbooks.
Adapt AI practices to secure, restricted environments and evaluate on-prem tooling.
Develop production software in C++ and Python for counter-UAS and missile defense in Linux.
Work in a SAFe environment using Jira and GitLab; enforce code reviews, testing, and CI/CD.
Debug and troubleshoot in HWIL and SWIL settings.
Establish engineering standards and drive reusable, well-documented solutions.
Collaborate with systems, electrical, test, and cybersecurity teams and align with program leadership.