Full Stack Software Engineer (Defense R&D)

Job Description

We are seeking a Full Stack Software Engineer to support the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Hanscom AFB in Lexington, MA. This role supports a newly awarded R&D contract with AFRL and offers an opportunity to work directly on advanced defense initiatives in a secure, mission-critical environment.

The ideal candidate will be able to provide immediate engineering support to AFRL researchers and consultants while developing into a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the program. This is a long-term position where commitment and stability are essential — candidates with a history of frequent job changes (every 12 months or less) will not be considered.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, develop, and maintain software solutions using multiple programming languages.
• Write clean, efficient, well-documented code that adheres to best practices.
• Integrate enterprise applications and related databases.
• Maintain version control and code integrity with Git.
• Debug, test, and optimize applications across platforms and environments.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex multi-system technical issues.
• Optimize architectures for performance, security, and efficiency.
• Document technical designs, logic, and integration points.
• Participate in code reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Support shared libraries and common tools across teams.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to analyze requirements and define solutions.
• Manage the full development lifecycle from concept to deployment.
• Contribute to system roadmaps, design plans, and architecture documentation.
• Ensure compliance with cybersecurity and development standards.
• Provide recommendations on tools, architectures, and system solutions.
• Coordinate schedules, risk mitigation, and status updates.
• Participate in weekly technical and stakeholder meetings.
• Stay current on DevSecOps practices and emerging technologies.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• U.S. Citizen eligible to obtain Top Secret security clearance.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related STEM field.
• 3+ years of experience in full-stack software engineering.
• Proficiency in Linux/Unix, with at least 2 years of Java and XML experience.
• Proven ability to design and build secure, scalable, high-performance systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to develop into a Subject Matter Expert (SME).
• Willing to travel frequently (up to 50%).

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior military background or familiarity with DoD environments (SIPR/JWICS exposure preferred).
• Experience with agile prototyping and scalable deployments.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps practices and modern system design patterns.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate with diverse technical and non-technical teams.

Additional Information

• Job Type: Full-Time
• Location: Hanscom Air Force Base, Lexington, MA
• Travel: Up to 50%
• Clearance: U.S. Citizen eligible to obtain Top Secret security clearance.
• Compensation: Commensurate with Experience