Chief Engineer

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

We are seeking a skilled Software Developer to support the Airspace and Surface Radar Reconnaissance (ASRR) system development. The Software Developer will be responsible for building, testing, delivering, and deploying software applications that support ISR operations, data processing, and system integration for the ASRR program. As the primary software development resource, this role requires full-stack development capabilities and proficiency across multiple technologies to support diverse software requirements within a limited development scope.

Design, develop, and maintain full-stack applications supporting ASRR system operations, data processing, and user interfaces
• Implement backend services using Python and NodeJS frameworks to handle ISR data processing and system integration
• Develop frontend applications using TypeScript and NextJS to provide user interfaces for system monitoring, data visualization, and operational control
• Create and maintain database solutions using SQLite and other database technologies to support system data storage and retrieval requirements
• Integrate software applications with ASRR subsystems including aerostat control, ISR sensors, and ELINT processing systems

• Deploy and manage applications on AWS infrastructure including EC2 instances, S3 storage, and Route53 DNS services
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines to ensure reliable software delivery and deployment processes
• Configure and manage cloud-based development and production environments to support ASRR operations
• Implement security best practices for cloud deployments and certificate management for both local and cloud-based systems
• Monitor system performance and implement scaling solutions as required

• Utilize modern development environments including Visual Studio, VS Code, Cursor, and other IDEs to maximize development efficiency
• Manage source code using Git and GitLab repositories with appropriate branching strategies and collaboration workflows
• Track development tasks and coordinate with engineering teams using Atlassian JIRA for project management and issue tracking
• Leverage AI-assisted development tools including local LLMs, Cursor, WindSurf, and GitHub Copilot to enhance development productivity while maintaining secure coding practices
• Utilize CLI tools and shell scripting for automation, deployment, and system administration tasks

• Develop software interfaces to integrate with ASRR hardware systems including sensors, communications equipment, and data processing systems
• Create automated testing frameworks to ensure software reliability and performance under operational conditions
• Support system-level testing and verification efforts by developing test tools and data analysis capabilities
• Troubleshoot and resolve software issues in both development and operational environments

• Create and maintain technical documentation including software architecture, API documentation, and deployment procedures
• Provide technical support to engineering teams and end users for software-related issues
• Participate in technical reviews and provide software engineering expertise to program decisions
• Support software configuration management and version control processes

• Participate in Agile development processes including sprint planning, daily standups, and retrospectives
• Collaborate with systems engineers, hardware engineers, and program management to understand requirements and deliver effective solutions
• Communicate software development progress and technical challenges to leadership and stakeholders
• Adapt to changing requirements and priorities in a dynamic development environment

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or related STEM field

• Minimum 4 years of experience in software development with demonstrated full-stack development capabilities
• Experience building, testing, delivering, and deploying secure enterprise software systems
• Proven experience working in fast-paced development environments with multiple competing priorities

• Proficiency in Python for backend development, data processing, and system integration
• Strong experience with TypeScript, NodeJS, and NextJS for full-stack web application development
• Experience with SQLite and database design for data storage and retrieval applications
• Proficiency with development environments including Visual Studio, VS Code, Cursor, and other modern IDEs
• Hands-on experience with AWS services including EC2, S3, Lambda, and Route53 for cloud application deployment

• Experience implementing and maintaining CI/CD pipelines for automated software delivery
• Proficiency with Git version control and GitLab collaboration workflows
• Experience with Atlassian JIRA for project management and issue tracking
• Knowledge of certificate management for secure communications in local and cloud environments
• Comfort with CLI tools, shell scripting, and command-line development workflows

• Experience leveraging AI-assisted development tools including local LLMs and services like Cursor, WindSurf, and GitHub Copilot
• Understanding of secure coding practices when using AI development assistance
• Knowledge of software security best practices and secure development lifecycle processes
• Experience with automated testing frameworks and test-driven development approaches

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues
• Strong communication skills with ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Experience working in Agile development environments and collaborating with cross-functional teams
• Ability to adapt quickly to new technologies and development requirements

• Must be eligible for U.S. government security clearance (Secret minimum) or possess current clearance
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast paced, and multinational environment
• Limited travel may be required for system integration and testing activities
• Prior experience with defense programs or Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts highly desirable
• Experience with ISR systems, military applications, or classified software development preferred

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.