Principal CNO Developer

TAP Engineering LLC; Maryland; On-site; USD 190,000 - 215,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

401(k) Retirement match

Medical Coverage

Dental & Vision insurance

Life Insurance

Job summary

TAP Engineering is seeking a Principal CNO Developer to lead design, development, and delivery of advanced software tools in a mission-focused environment. You will guide technical direction, architect end-to-end data flows, and lead teams across Windows, UNIX/Linux, and embedded environments.

The role requires strong leadership, hands-on expertise in low-level programming and network protocols, and a proven ability to collaborate across engineering teams to deliver high-impact capabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or 16 years of experience in lieu of degree.
• 12+ years of experience in software engineering or development roles, or 10+ years with a Master's, or 8+ years with a Doctorate.
• Expert-level experience with C, C++, Java, Python, Assembly, or similar.
• Strong experience with network socket programming and packet-level development.
• Deep understanding of IP, TCP, and application-level protocols.
• Experience developing applications in Windows and/or Unix/Linux.
• Proven ability to lead technical efforts and guide development teams.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of custom software tools and capabilities
• Architect and develop end-to-end data flows and tasking within complex software systems
• Develop applications across Windows, UNIX/Linux, and embedded or mobile environments
• Write and maintain code in languages such as Assembly, C, C++, Java, Perl, or Python
• Provide technical leadership and direction across software development efforts
• Lead and participate in design reviews, code reviews, and software readiness activities
• Perform advanced debugging, testing, and validation of complex software systems
• Develop and present technical documentation and briefings
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate and optimize system performance
• Drive the development of new solutions that meet evolving technical and mission requirements

Skills

C/C++

Java

Python

Assembly

Networking

IP/TCP protocols

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Network Engineering, or a related field

16 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree

Doctorate in related field (8+ years experience)

Job description

Position Overview

TAP Engineering is seeking a Principal CNO Developer to lead the design, development, and delivery of advanced software tools and capabilities in a mission-focused environment. This role is ideal for a senior technical leader with deep expertise in low-level programming, network protocols, and complex system integration. The Principal CNO Developer will play a key role in architecting and developing end-to-end data flows, guiding technical direction, and leading the development of innovative solutions. This position requires strong leadership, the ability to work independently, and collaboration across engineering teams to deliver high-impact capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of custom software tools and capabilities
• Architect and develop end-to-end data flows and tasking within complex software systems
• Develop applications across Windows, UNIX/Linux, and embedded or mobile environments
• Write and maintain code in languages such as Assembly, C, C++, Java, Perl, or Python
• Provide technical leadership and direction across software development efforts
• Lead and participate in design reviews, code reviews, and software readiness activities
• Perform advanced debugging, testing, and validation of complex software systems
• Develop and present technical documentation and briefings
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate and optimize system performance
• Drive the development of new solutions that meet evolving technical and mission requirements

Required Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Network Engineering, or a related field
  • OR 16 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree
• 12+ years of experience in software engineering or development roles
  • OR 10+ years with a Master's degree
  • OR 8+ years with a Doctorate
• Expert-level experience with one or more programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Python, Assembly, or similar
• Strong experience with network socket programming and packet-level development
• Deep understanding of IP, TCP, and application-level protocols
• Experience developing applications in Windows (.NET/Visual Studio) and/or Unix/Linux environments
• Proven ability to lead technical efforts and guide development teams
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with low-level or embedded system development
• Strong background in secure software development practices
• Experience developing and integrating complex, large-scale systems
• Experience mentoring and leading junior engineers
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences

Compensation

The anticipated salary range for this position is $190,000 - $215,000, based on relevant experience, qualifications, and other applicable factors. The compensation range provided is a general guideline and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary.

Clearance Requirement

This position requires an active TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph. Clearance processing and maintenance will be conducted in accordance with U.S. Government requirements.

Benefits Overview

TAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Paid Time Off: 15–25 days annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays (never use-or-lose)
• Retirement: Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing
• Medical Coverage: Free medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents
• Dental & Vision: Employer-paid plans with optional enhancements
• Insurance Coverage: Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework
• Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support
• Performance-Based Rewards: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses

Additional Information

TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.