Modernization Engineer (Junior)

Spear AI • Manassas, VA

3d • Remote

About The Position

We’re seeking a skilled Modernization Engineer to design, build, and modernize the next generation of combat systems for the U.S. Navy.

Spear AI is a growing defense contracting company dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that support our nation’s security. As we expand, we’re building a culture where innovation meets mission-critical work. We operate with a flat organizational structure that empowers every team member to make an impact, collaborate directly with leadership, and contribute to projects that matter. Whether you’re joining our Hardware, Software, or Services division, you’ll work alongside talented professionals who are committed to excellence and advancing the capabilities that keep our nation safe and secure.

Spear AI builds sonobuoy sensors that are deployed into the water and collect edge data. We also work with the U.S. Navy to collect and process their SONAR data. You’ll have an opportunity to work on real-world projects that directly impact warfighter capabilities and mission success.
What you’ll do
We’re a small team wearing many hats, and you’d have a wide variety of responsibilities that include:
Translate C/C++ code to memory-safe Rust.
Ensure code is formatted, linted, and tested with code coverage.
Containerize legacy codebase with Docker and Kubernetes.
Replace antique messaging systems with Redpanda and Protobuf.
Set up services using Infrastructure as Code.
Bring modern tooling to local development workflows.
Design and build CI/CD pipelines with GitHub Actions.
Who you are
We’re looking for someone with strong Software Engineering skills who shares our most important values:
You’re fanatical about polish. Every detail matters. You love to make sure your code is linted, formatted, fully typed, and has 100% test coverage.
You care about correctness. You take pride in the fact that downstream consumers trust libraries and services you build.
You obsess over performance. You daydream about Lighthouse scores and query speed.
You dive deep. It’s important for you to really know how things work. You’re always building prototypes and setting up experiments to reinforce your understanding.
You live on the bleeding edge. You’ve got a long list of upcoming platform features you’re excited about and can’t wait for the next nightly to drop.
You’re a great teacher. You know how to break down a concept for a specific audience and make it click with them in a way that gets them excited.
Why work with us
We ship — We don’t work on 18-month projects that are irrelevant before they’re even finished.
Our work has impact — We build products that are deployed to U.S. submarines and integrate with the sonobuoys we manufacture.
We’re growing responsibly — We have the resources to hire a lot more people, but we don’t want to build a massive team of people who don’t share our values.
We’re remote — Work from wherever you want. We collaborate in real time on Slack or asynchronously via GitHub.
We’re profitable — We aren’t burning through cash trying to make the business work. But we also have investors who believe in us and are committed to our success.
We care about doing great work — You don’t need permission to sweat the details here.
We don’t take ourselves too seriously — We’re building products that make the world safer. But we don’t let that get to our heads.

Requirements

• Familiar with C/C++.
• Expertise in Rust.
• Expertise with Kafka/Redpanda.
• Proficiency with Docker and Kubernetes.
• Experience building CI/CD pipelines.
• Knowledge of Terraform or Pulumi for deploying Infrastructure as Code.
• Knowledge of Python.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with IoT devices and sensors.
• Digital signal processing experience.
• Geospatial analysis and GIS experience.
• Familiar with working in monorepos.

Responsibilities

• Translate C/C++ code to memory-safe Rust.
• Ensure code is formatted, linted, and tested with code coverage.
• Containerize legacy codebase with Docker and Kubernetes.
• Replace antique messaging systems with Redpanda and Protobuf.
• Set up services using Infrastructure as Code.
• Bring modern tooling to local development workflows.
• Design and build CI/CD pipelines with GitHub Actions.

Benefits

• Unlimited PTO — Take the time you need to recharge and maintain work-life balance.
• Dedicated sick time — Your health and well-being come first.
• Comprehensive health and benefits – Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family protected.
• 11 Paid Holidays — Enjoy time off throughout the year to celebrate and spend time with loved ones.
• Professional development — Educational opportunities and resources to help you grow your skills and advance your career.
• Collaborative environment — Work directly with leadership in our flat organizational structure, where your ideas and contributions matter.
• Mission-driven work — Contribute to projects that directly support national security and make a real-world impact.
• Growth opportunities — Join us during an exciting expansion phase where you can help shape our future.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Onsite / Remote / Flexible work arrangements or hybrid options (position dependent).
• Relocation assistance (position dependent).
• Referral bonuses.
• Performance bonuses.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Technology home office setup stipend.
• Professional certification reimbursement (position dependent).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed