Software Engineer Lead

Peraton; Colorado Springs (CO); On-site; USD 135,000 - 216,000; Full time

Job summary

Peraton is seeking a Software Engineer Lead in Colorado Springs to guide software development for critical national defense systems. The role demands strong leadership in Agile processes, and proficiency in languages like Java, C++, and Python, coupled with a minimum of 12 years of experience. Applicants must have an active Top Secret clearance. The compensation ranges from $135,000 to $216,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. This positions the candidate as a key player within the North American Aerospace Defense programs.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 12 years experience in relevant field.
• Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Experience leading technical teams in complex environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead software development across full life-cycle.
• Coordinate with systems engineering teams on software solutions.
• Conduct code reviews and enforce best practices.

Skills

Java

C++

Python

Jira

Confluence

Docker

Kubernetes

Agile frameworks

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field

Job description

Software Engineer Lead

Job Locations: US-CO-Colorado Springs

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking incumbent and external qualified candidates to support North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Cheyenne Mountain Complex (NCMC) - Integrated Tactical Warning/Attack Assessment (NCMC-ITW/AA) and Space Support Contract III (NISSC III). Please note that this is contingent upon contract award, with an anticipated decision expected by summer 2026. Qualified candidates will help operate, maintain, and sustain critical national mission systems to deliver resilient strategic threat warning and space capabilities as part of a worldwide architecture, providing strategic warning that our nation depends on during a conflict. This program will provide an opportunity to exploit the capabilities inherent in our diverse national systems to better meet the needs of the national command authority and warfighters to detect, track, and respond to strategic threats through 2030 and beyond.

The Software Developer Technical Lead will serve as the senior technical authority for software development activities supporting. This individual will guide the engineering team in designing, developing, integrating, and delivering mission critical software solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead software development activities across the full life-cycle, including architecture, design, implementation, integration, testing, and deployment.
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for software development within the Epoch 2 Ground Management and Integration effort.
• Define and maintain software architecture that supports scalable, resilient, and secure ground system capabilities.
• Ensure software development teams align and follow Agile software development processes.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to a team of software developers and subcontractor personnel.
• Coordinate with systems engineering teams to ensure software solutions align with system requirements, interfaces, and mission needs.
• Oversee integration of software components into larger ground system architectures, ensuring compatibility and performance.
• Confirm compliance with cybersecurity, DevSecOps, and SSC standards throughout the development lifecycle.
• Support Agile planning and execution models to include sprint planning, backlog refinement, and technical reviews.
• Conduct code reviews and enforce best practices for quality, maintainability, and reliability.
• Prepare and deliver technical documentation including design artifacts, interface control documents, and test plans.
• Collaborate with the Program Manager to track progress, identify risks, and ensure successful delivery of milestones.
• Engage with government stakeholders to clarify requirements, present technical solutions, and support decision making.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field, and a minimum of 12 years experience.
• Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Proficiency in modern programming languages such as Java, C++, Python, or similar.
• Experience using Jira and Confluence.
• Experience leading technical teams in complex, mission critical environments.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps pipelines, CI/CD, and containerized environments (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with distributed systems, real-time processing, or ground-system architectures.

Desired Qualifications:

• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Experience with space or missile defense programs, especially OPIR or SSC programs.
• Knowledge of Agile frameworks such as Scrum or SAFe.
• Experience with cloud architectures (AWS, Azure, or government cloud environments).
• Background in systems engineering or integration of complex multivendor systems.

Target Salary Range

$135,000 - $216,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

EEO

Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.