Software Engineer – Scalable Systems

Nightwing Intelligence Solutions, LLC; Georgetown (MD); On-site; USD 99,000 - 206,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

Dental insurance

401k plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Nightwing is seeking a Software Engineer in Maryland to design and develop scalable software for mission-critical operations. You will leverage machine learning, real-time data analytics, and microservices in containerized environments to deliver resilient systems for national security missions.

The role requires strong programming skills in C++ and Python, deep knowledge of distributed systems, and a TS/SCI clearance.

Qualifications

• A STEM degree (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
• Proven expertise in scalable and distributed systems development, containerized environments (e.g., Kubernetes, Helm, Podman), and cloud-native architectures.
• Proficiency in modern programming languages (e.g., C++, Python) and robust Linux-based development workflows.
• Strong foundational knowledge of data structures and algorithm design for solving complex and resource-efficient problems.
• Familiarity with secure DevSecOps workflows, CI/CD automation, and configuration management tools like Git.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with a passion for innovation and collaboration.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph U.S. citizenship is required.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop scalable software systems to support mission-critical operations.
• Incorporate machine learning models and AI-driven analytics to augment signal processing and network analysis capabilities.
• Optimize system performance for distributed computing, microservices, and containerized environments.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate real-time data-driven solutions into platforms.
• Work on high-impact projects involving large-scale data pipelines and adaptive algorithms.
• Participate in internal reviews and contribute ideas to improve system performance and security.
• Prototype and iterate on innovative ideas to enhance automation, efficiency, and collaboration.
• Ensure adherence to agile development practices and DevSecOps workflows.

Skills

STEM degree

Distributed systems

Containerized environments

C++

Python

Linux workflows

Data structures

Algorithms

DevSecOps

Git

TS/SCI clearance

U.S. citizenship

Education

STEM degree

Tools

Kubernetes

Helm

Podman

Job description

Nightwing provides technologically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets. Nightwing is seeking a Software Engineer who thrives on solving tough challenges, creating innovative solutions, and strengthening our nation’s security with cutting‑edge technologies. Join a team at the forefront of building scalable, resilient systems that harness modern advancements in software, data science, and machine learning to empower mission‑critical operations. Nightwing develops strategic and tactical SIGINT solutions that secure the interests of the U.S. and its partners. Our collaborative environment embraces creativity, integrity, and constant improvement. With access to state‑of‑the‑art tools, opportunities to grow professionally, and meaningful work alongside the nation’s finest service members, you’ll help shape tomorrow’s solutions today. This is an ONSITE position based out of our National Business Park, Maryland location.

What You Will Do

Design and develop scalable software systems to support mission‑critical operations. Incorporate advanced techniques, such as machine learning models and AI‑driven analytics, to augment signal processing and network analysis capabilities. Optimize system performance for distributed computing, microservices, and containerized environments, ensuring scalability and reliability under growing data and system demands. Collaborate with cross‑disciplinary teams to integrate real‑time data‑driven solutions into existing and new platforms. Work on high‑impact projects involving large‑scale data pipelines, message brokering systems, and adaptive algorithms. Participate in internal reviews and actively contribute creative ideas to improve system performance and security. Prototype and iterate on innovative ideas that push the boundaries of automation, efficiency, and collaborative systems. Ensure adherence to agile development practices and configuration management standards using modern DevSecOps tools and workflows.

Qualifications You Must Have

• A STEM degree (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
• Proven expertise in scalable and distributed systems development, containerized environments (e.g., Kubernetes, Helm, Podman), and cloud‑native architectures.
• Proficiency in modern programming languages (e.g., C++, Python) and robust Linux‑based development workflows.
• Strong foundational knowledge of data structures and algorithm design for solving complex and resource‑efficient problems.
• Familiarity with secure DevSecOps workflows, CI/CD automation, and configuration management tools like Git.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with a passion for innovation and collaboration.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph U.S. citizenship is required.

Qualifications We Prefer

• Experience with machine learning frameworks and applying ML/AI models to analyze and simulate network traffic, signal processing, or other complex systems.
• Deep knowledge of event‑driven systems, messaging queues (e.g., Kafka), and RESTful APIs or gRPC for scalable operations.
• Proven experience architecting and optimizing microservices and containerized systems.
• Familiarity with multithreading, parallel processing, and asynchronous programming best practices.
• Embedded software design and hardware integration experience.
• Previous success in applying AI‑driven projects that automate decision‑making, detect anomalies, or enhance performance at scale

Why Join Nightwing?

• Cutting‑Edge Tools: Work with the latest advancements in cloud computing, scalable architectures, and machine learning technologies.
• Mission‑Driven Impact: Directly contribute to missions that make the world safer and more secure.
• Innovation at Scale: Solve challenging problems involving large‑scale systems, real‑time processing, and mission‑critical applications.
• Collaborative Culture: Work with brilliant engineers and service members in a dynamic, collaborative environment that values creativity and out‑of‑the‑box thinking.

Security Clearance Type: TS/SCI with Polygraph Security Clearance Status: Active and existing security clearance required after day 1

The salary associated with this position $99,000-$206,000 is commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.

• Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.

Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($99,000-$206,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.

• Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.

Nightwing 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 or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

Previously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA; Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nation’s most mission impactful initiatives. When we formed Nightwing, we brought a deep set of credentials and an unfaltering commitment to the mission. For over four decades, our team has been providing some of the world’s most technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence support services to the U.S. government on its most important missions.

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we’ll leverage…

Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.