Principal Software Architect — Mission-Critical Data & Systems

KBR Careers; Colorado Springs (CO); On-site; USD 143,000 - 214,000; Full time

Job summary

KBR Careers in Colorado Springs, CO is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead high-availability, mission-critical software systems supporting AFRL initiatives. The role emphasizes architecture, technical strategy, and cross-functional teamwork.

Ideal candidates bring 10+ years of experience, strong Java/Python skills, and a TS/SCI clearance, with a Bachelor’s in a technical field. Onsite work in Colorado Springs is expected, with opportunities to shape national-scale software solutions.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive software engineering experience.
• Extensive experience designing distributed, high-availability software systems.
• Advanced expertise with Java, Python, or OO languages.
• Experience leading software architecture and technical strategy efforts.
• Experience guiding engineering teams through full SDLC.
• Experience developing complex data processing or real-time streaming systems.
• Led cross-functional engineering teams on large technical initiatives.
• Strong communication with engineers, leadership and customers.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the technical leader for software development efforts supporting high-velocity data stream processing systems.
• Define software architecture, technical strategy, and long-term roadmap for mission-critical applications.
• Translate mission objectives into scalable system and software solutions.
• Lead architecture reviews, design reviews, and technology evaluations.
• Drive development of highly available, resilient software systems.
• Establish software engineering standards and governance across teams.
• Lead complex integration, testing, and deployment across multiple programs.
• Evaluate vendor technologies and emerging technologies for program adoption.
• Mentor engineers and provide technical leadership for multiple teams.
• Coordinate planning, staffing, and execution of software activities.
• Serve as trusted technical advisor to program leadership and customers.

Skills

Distributed systems

Software architecture

Java

Python

SDLC leadership

Real-time streaming

Cross-functional leadership

Communication

Education

Top Secret/SCI clearance

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering/Math

Job description

KBR Careers in Colorado Springs, CO is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead high-availability, mission-critical software systems supporting AFRL initiatives. The role emphasizes architecture, technical strategy, and cross-functional teamwork.

Ideal candidates bring 10+ years of experience, strong Java/Python skills, and a TS/SCI clearance, with a Bachelor’s in a technical field. Onsite work in Colorado Springs is expected, with opportunities to shape national-scale software solutions.