Principal / Sr Principal Algorithms Software Engineer

RKF Engineering Solutions, LLC (DBA Auria); Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 155,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

Flex Time

Education support

401(k) match

Job summary

Auria is seeking a Principal / Senior Principal Algorithms Software Engineer to support the BMDS BOA program in Boulder, CO on-site. You will design, develop, test, and document advanced algorithms and software for real-time missile detection and tracking in a cutting-edge environment.

Requirements include a STEM degree with 5+ years (or 3+ with master's, 1 with PhD), active in-scope U.S. government security clearance at the time of application (Secret; TS/SCI preferred), strong Python and C++,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field with 5+ years of related experience, or Master’s with 3+ years, or PhD with 1+ year.
• Active in-scope U.S. Government Secret security clearance at time of application; TS/SCI preferred.
• Minimum 1 year of Python/C++ software development experience.
• Strong Linux and common utilities experience; data analysis and state estimation skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, document, and debug software and algorithms for BMDS BOA.
• Develop and analyze tracking/state estimation algorithms and prototype tools.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams and communicate results clearly.
• Travel up to 10% to support business needs.

Skills

Python

C++

Data analysis

State estimation

Algorithms

Linux

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's in STEM

Master's in STEM

PhD

Tools

grep

awk

cat

head

Job description

Auria is looking to hire a Principal / Sr Principal Algorithms Software Engineer to support the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) Architecture (BOA) program. BOA is the Missile Defense Agency's next-generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) architecture providing automated, real-time missile detection, tracking, and threat classification with advanced data fusion to deliver precise, high-fidelity 3D intelligence. The position is located on-site in Boulder, CO.

As a Principal / Senior Principal Algorithms Software Engineer on the BOA/ESL Team, you will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, documenting, and debugging software and complex mathematical algorithms. This fast-paced and cutting-edge research and development environment will rely on your familiarity with modern software practices. You are expected to communicate technical information effectively and clearly, and present technical approaches and findings. Our team of motivated technical talent works closely with the end user (and each other) to ensure the direct mission applicability of developed products.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO:

• Breadth and depth in the application of mathematics to perform data analysis and algorithm development for missile tracking applications.
• Development and performance analysis of tracking and state estimation algorithms.
• Tool and prototype development using Modern C++ and Python.
• Algorithm defect tracking and resolution.
• Technical Documentation as required.
• Work in cross-discipline teams and communicate clearly across various levels of engineers.

WHAT THE TEAM REQUIRES:

• Principal Algorithm Software Engineer (Level 3): Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline preferred from an accredited university and 5 years of related experience, or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years experience, or a PhD and 1 year of experience.
• Sr. Principal Algorithm Software Engineer (Level 4): Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline preferred from an accredited university and 8 years of related experience, or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 6 years experience, or a PhD and 4 year of experience.
• Applicants must have a current active in-scope U.S. Government issued Secret security clearance at the time of application which is required to start; with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance.
• Applicants must have a minimum of 1 year of software development experience with Python and/or C++.
• Applicants must have Linux experience and working knowledge of common utilities like grep, awk, cat head, etc.
• Experience developing, analyzing, testing, and implementing extendable / reusable algorithms.
• Applicants must have algorithm design and state estimation experience.
• Experience with data analysis - Population statistics and trend identification.
• The ability to bridge between theoretical concepts and practical implementation.
• Ability and willingness to travel up-to 10% to support business needs.
• Mission-Driven Professional: Collaborative contributor motivated by the opportunity to develop cutting-edge solutions that protect and serve both the nation and the world.

WHAT THE TEAM PREFERS:

• A current active in-scope U.S. Government DoD issued Top Secret security clearance.
• Strong statistical background and skills.
• Experience in tracking and prediction algorithms, simulation, and validation.
• Experience with multiple hypothesis tracking.
• Experience in the numerical implementation of motion filters.

PAY TRANSPARENCY:

The salary offered will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications - skills, education & experience - and the position level. $155,000 - $180,000

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

October 22, 2026

THE AURIA TEAM:

Auria is a provider of solutions and software in support of complex Space, National Security, and Cyber missions of federal, international, and commercial customers. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO our success is built on the excellence of diverse teams advancing innovative systems and operational software to strengthen our customers' missions. With a distinguished track record and a spirit of relentless pursuit, and R&D, we set the pace for progress and execute every mission with the utmost precision.

Why You'll Love Working at Auria

We believe our team does their best work when they are well-supported, financially secure, and have the freedom to balance life outside of the office.

Time for What Matters

• Generous & Growing PTO: Start with a substantial paid time off package that increases every year you're with us.
• True Flexibility: Contract permitting, use Flex Time to work in a way that fits your life, not just your 8-to-5.
• 11 Paid Days Off: Enjoy 6 fixed company holidays plus 5 Floating Holidays to use whenever you choose.

Invested in Your Future

• 401(k) Match-Yours to Keep Instantly: We match up to 4% of your contributions. Both your contributions and the company match are yours from day one with no vesting wait-period.
• Industry-Leading Education Support: Level up with up to $12,000 annually for tuition and certifications. We don't just hire talent; we grow it.

Health & Peace of Mind

• Premium Healthcare, Lower Costs: High-quality medical plans paired with a Company-Sponsored HSA to help you save for the future.
• Fully Covered Life Insurance: Breathe easy with life insurance up to $50K provided at zero cost to you.
• Holistic Support: Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, financial coaching, and more.

...and that's just the beginning!

Auria is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action-Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.