Chantilly, VA (on-site at client facility)
Full-Time, Long-Term Contract (1-Year Assignment)
Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI with Polygraph (Required — must be a U.S. Citizen)
Job Summary
We are seeking a Software Engineer to support a mission-critical program in the Chantilly, VA area. This role combines full-stack software development with data engineering and mission-focused problem solving, offering the opportunity to design, build, and deliver tailored solutions across diverse business areas. The ideal candidate is a strong full-stack developer who is comfortable learning new languages, frameworks, and deployment environments.
Responsibilities
- Collect, organize, and analyze technical information from multiple sources to drive mission objectives and quick-turn tasks in fast-paced environments
- Support the design and implementation of machine learning and data engineering techniques applied to advanced science and technology (S&T) missions
- Perform C/C++ development in support of critical mission requirements
- Apply concepts from newer compiled languages such as Go or Rust to embedded development
- Develop for real-time operating systems (RTOS) and other embedded systems
- Apply software development expertise to the analysis of compiled custom operating systems, including learning reverse engineering principles
- Collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment while working independently and leading tasks on time and on budget
- Participate in the design, implementation, and maintenance of tailored software applications supporting diverse business areas
- Provide data analysis and modeling, including the physical and logical design of databases
- Support the design and delivery of reports, stored procedures, and queries to meet project requirements
- Translate user requirements into concepts for information system solutions to be implemented by functional teams
- Contribute to and participate in testing of delivered software solutions
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with 3+ years of relevant experience; OR a Master's degree in a related field with 1+ year of experience; OR a Ph.D.; or an equivalent combination of education and experience in a related field
- Experience in full-stack software development with significant programming experience in C#, C++, and/or Java
- Experience with MS SQL, PostgreSQL, or similar relational database technology
- Ability to learn and understand new programming languages, design patterns, operating systems, and deployment environments (e.g., Azure, AWS, and physical hardware)
- Experience supporting national security, defense, and/or intelligence community missions
- Must be a U.S. Citizen with an active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph (non-negotiable)
- Assignment Length: 1 year
- Schedule: Standard hours (40/week)
- Work Location: On-site required
- Interview Process: Video interview with hiring manager and technical team
- Relocation Candidates: Will consider hiring off video interview for non-local candidates willing to relocate
- Target Start Date: 09/01/2026
Smart Data Systems is an Equal Opportunity 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, age, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.