Software Engineer 1

Akina, Inc. is hiring a Software Engineer 1 to build and test AI-assisted tools that support readiness and certification workflows. This onsite role in Columbia, MD involves requirements work, prototyping, software development, and documentation, with a focus on integrating AI agents and Model Context Protocol (MCP) components into organizational processes.

Role Focus

The Software Engineer 1 role centers on implementing and validating AI-driven solutions that streamline readiness and certification workflows. Work includes configuring AI harnesses, developing and maintaining custom Skills and MCP servers, and supporting the delivery of assigned features through the full development lifecycle. The position also includes automation using Python and Bash and supporting training teams through documentation and tool adoption materials.

Responsibilities

• Participate in discussions with training staff and stakeholders to capture requirements and identify process bottlenecks.
• Implement and test components of AI-driven solutions that streamline readiness and certification workflows, with guidance from senior engineers.
• Configure AI harnesses, including developing and maintaining custom Skills and Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers that connect AI workflows to organizational data and tools.
• Contribute across the development lifecycle, including prototyping, coding, testing, and delivery of assigned features.
• Build and maintain automation scripts and tools using Python and Bash.
• Use AI tools to assist in drafting, reviewing, and maintaining JQS and TQS documentation under the direction of the training team.
• Write clear technical documentation, user guides, and training materials to support adoption of new AI tools.
• Learn and apply team coding standards, version control practices, and review processes.

Required Qualifications

• Proficiency in at least one scripting or programming language, with Python or Bash preferred.
• Understanding of software engineering fundamentals, including Git, testing, and debugging.
• Basic knowledge of operating systems and networking concepts.
• Familiarity with AI/LLM tools and interest in using them to automate routine tasks.
• Ability to write clear, organized technical documentation.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to learn from senior engineers and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs).

Education and Experience

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Software Engineer 1 (SWE) in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related discipline from an accredited college or university.
• Substitution: Four (4) years of additional SWE experience on similar software processes may be substituted for a bachelor's degree.

Technologies

• AI, Python, Bash, Git
• AI/LLM tools, Skills, Model Context Protocol (MCP)
• JQS, TQS

Clearance

• TS/SCI - Polygraph required

Preferred / Nice to Have

• Knowledge of or exposure to CNE/CNO operations and cyber mission tradecraft.
• Experience or coursework with AI harnesses and agentic workflows, including Skills or MCP servers.
• Exposure to systems engineering concepts from design through delivery.
• Experience with C++.
• Familiarity with Large Language Model (LLM) prompt engineering, evaluation, or Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG).
• Familiarity with web development frameworks (for example, React, TypeScript) for user-facing tools.
• Experience or familiarity with TAO/CNO formalized training pipelines.
• Exposure to Job Qualification Standards (JQS) or other training and certification documents.

Benefits

• 24 days PTO accrued annually
• 11 federal holidays
• 401k is 100% vested on your start date
• Company direct contribution worth 10% of your salary
• Akina covers 100% of healthcare costs for employees
• 50% toward dependents healthcare costs
• Educational assistance towards college classes
• Coverage for costs associated with job-related training and certifications

Location and Salary

Location: Columbia, MD (onsite)

Salary: USD 169,000 - 207,000 per year

The displayed range is a likely salary range and is not a guarantee of compensation. Salary is set based on experience, geographic location, and possible contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range.