Software Engineer Stf - E4

Standard Job Description

Next Gen OPIR GEO is providing a new generation of IR monitoring satellites with enhanced capabilities and survivability in an increasingly hostile space environment. We are working with the US Space Force and other partners to deliver new vehicles at an unprecedented rate – a top USSF priority.

We are a small, close-knit team of agile developers looking to add more members to our group. We are a highly collaborative, enthusiastic bunch who are happy to make space for new perspectives and ideas. With a small-team environment, we strive to make individuals feel recognized, provide opportunities for growth, stretch assignments, and ensure that each developer can further their career in a way that they want. As a member of our high-performing team you must be passionate about your trade, focused on mission system quality, and supportive of timely delivery of features and capabilities. Primary technologies include Java, Spring Boot, Angular, Docker, AMQ, Postgres, Kubernetes, Automated Cypress Tests, and more.

The Level 4 Engineer is a senior engineer who will shape the architecture and roadmap for the NGG OPIR ground‑segment. You will drive large‑scale, high‑impact software initiatives, champion secure‑by‑design practices, and mentor a distributed engineering team. This role requires a blend of deep technical expertise, strategic thinking, and strong stakeholder influence.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Evolve the micro‑services architecture (Java, Spring Boot, Kubernetes, event‑driven design).
• Be part of design reviews, set coding standards, and enforce secure‑by‑design practices (Secret, TS/SCI eligibility).
• Advance the CI/CD strategy, including automated testing and blue‑green deployments.
• Mentor and develop senior and mid‑level engineers; drive technical career growth and culture.
• Be part of the team in cross‑program architectural forums and with external partners.
• Become a technical go to person to solve complex problems and push technical solutions.

Basic Qualifications

• U.S. citizen; must be able to obtain Secret clearance (TS/SCI eligibility required).
• M.S. (or Ph.D.) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline or ≥ 8 years of progressively responsible software engineering experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency of Java, Python, C++, or modern frontend frameworks (Angular/React).
• Extensive experience building and operating in a distributed micro‑service architecture on OpenShift at scale (≥ 50 services).
• Proven track record with SQL performance tuning, message broker systems, and observability (OpenShift).
• Strong background in secure software development.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills; ability to translate complex technical concepts to executive leadership and nontechnical stakeholders.

Desired Skills