Software Engineer

NSA seeks experienced Software Engineers to contribute to high impact systems across HPC, cloud, accessibility, AI/ML, cryptography, and more, with opportunities to engage across the software lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of high impact software across domains including HPC, cloud, accessibility, AI/ML, and cryptography.
• Support the full software lifecycle: requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment, and ongoing maintenance.
• Collaborate across a broad set of computer science focus areas and pursue continuous learning to stay current with evolving technologies.
• Deliver secure, reliable software aligned with NSA standards while working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

Requirements

• Degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering (minimum acceptable to be considered).
• Related fields (Engineering, Mathematics) may be considered if programs contain a concentration of foundational CS coursework in algorithms; computer architecture (not network architecture); programming methodologies and languages; data structures; logic and computation; and advanced mathematics (for example, calculus or discrete mathematics).
• Relevant experience in the software development process (requirements analysis, software design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment/installation, and maintenance) and programming.
• Entry levels by degree:
  • Full Performance: Bachelor's with 3+ years of relevant experience, or Master's with 1+ year, or Doctoral degree with no experience.
  • Associate's degree plus 5 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth related experience.
  • Senior Entry: Bachelor's with 6+ years, or Master's with 4+ years, or Doctoral with 2+ years.
  • Associate's degree plus 8 years of relevant experience may be considered for in-depth related experience.

Technologies

• COBOL, C, C++, Java, Python, Rust
• Angular, React
• Pig Analytics, PySpark
• CI/CD, Docker, Kubernetes
• AWS, Linux, ElasticSearch
• IBM mainframe, relational and non-relational databases
• GitLab, Open Source
• TLS/SSL, Hardware security modules (HSMs), SIEM, IDS, vulnerability assessment tools
• Cryptographic libraries, APIs, and adherence to security standards (NIST, ISO 27001, OWASP guidelines)

Benefits

• Flexible work schedules
• Generous leave policies
• Continuing education programs
• Comprehensive benefits package

Compensation and Schedule

• Salary range: $105,262 - $192,764 per year (Full Performance, Senior). The exact amount varies by education, experience, location, and work level.
• Work schedule: Full-time, Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day, with a flexible window between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
• Training provided based on the selectee's needs and experience.
• DCIPS trial period: two years, or one year for veterans' preference eligible employees; trial runs concurrently with the position commitment. Continuation depends on performance and agency needs, with written notification if continued employment is not certified.

Job Details

• Location: Fort Meade, MD (onsite)
• Education requirement: Doctoral degree
• Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship required
• Security and eligibility: Employment subject to security background investigation and polygraph; random drug testing may be required
• Equal opportunity employer; NSA undertakes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities during the hiring process

How to Apply

• Apply soon, as postings can close earlier than the stated end date.
• Review minimum qualifications; only applicants meeting them will be contacted to proceed.
• Upload your resume and transcripts from all schools attended; unofficial transcripts are acceptable at this stage.
• Provide accurate information to determine eligibility and avoid disqualification.
• You will receive a confirmation email after the first submission and after any subsequent updates.
• Configure your spam filters to accept messages from [email protected].
• If testing requirements apply to the vacancy, include the specified email addresses: @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.com.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.