National Security Space, Lead Software Architect

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory • Laurel, MD

8h • Onsite

About The Position

Are you interested in changing science fiction into reality for our national security in space? Are you passionate about developing capabilities for space kill webs? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL! We are seeking an exceptional Lead Software Architect to drive the end-to-end software architecture for next-generation Space Kill Web capabilities. This critical role will define and evolve high-performance, resilient, and secure software systems that enable integrated kill-web operations across space, ground, and multi-domain assets. You will serve as the product owner for tools based on APL’s Virtual Ownship mod/sim tool in support of multiple national security space programs.

Requirements

• Have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related technical field with equivalent experience.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in software architecture and development, with at least 5 years in a lead or principal architect role.
• Prior lead or management experience in a team environment
• Demonstrated expertise designing and delivering large-scale, real-time software systems for defense, aerospace, or space-domain applications (e.g., sensor-to-shooter pipelines, C2 systems, or space situational awareness platforms).
• 5+ years of experience in an object-oriented language (e.g. Java, C++)
• Possess an active TS/SCI level clearance and willing to obtain a CI polygraph. If selected, you must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

Nice To Haves

• Strong working knowledge of C++
• Experience with Space Development Agency (SDA), Space Force, or other DoD space programs focused on proliferated architectures, missile warning/tracking, or kill-chain automation.
• Proficiency with modeling tools and DevSecOps pipelines for classified programs.
• Proven ability to deliver under aggressive timelines in a matrixed, high-security environment.
• Have an active TS/SCI clearance with a CI polygraph.

Responsibilities

• Architect scalable, fault-tolerant software solutions for Space Kill Web systems, including data ingestion pipelines, real-time analytics, distributed decision engines, and secure effectuation layers.
• Manage new releases for existing space kill web modeling and simulation tools based on the Virtual Ownship platforms
• Lead the design of modular, service-oriented architectures that integrate proliferated space architectures, ground-segment interfaces, and joint all-domain command-and-control (JADC2) frameworks.
• Establish and enforce software architecture standards, design patterns, and technical roadmaps aligned with mission requirements, DoD directives, and emerging space-domain standards.
• Collaborate closely with systems engineering, mission analysts, payload developers, cybersecurity teams, and end-user stakeholders to translate operational needs into robust technical designs.
• Mentor senior software engineers and guide cross-functional agile teams in the implementation, testing, and deployment of capability increments.
• Support technical baseline reviews, proposal development, and customer engagements with clear, concise architecture artifacts and presentations.

Benefits

• generous benefits
• robust education assistance program
• unparalleled retirement contributions
• healthy work/life balance
• comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees