Principal Full Stack Engineer
About The Position
Raft is a customer-obsessed non-traditional defense tech company dedicated to empowering U.S. military and government agencies with cutting-edge AI/ML and data solutions. We are a leader in autonomous data fusion and Agentic AI, with a purposeful focus on Distributed Data Systems, Platforms at Scale, and Complex Application Development. With headquarters in McLean, VA, our range of clients includes innovative federal and public agencies leveraging design thinking, cutting-edge tech stack, and cloud-native ecosystem. We build digital solutions that impact the lives of millions of Americans. We’re looking for an experienced Principal Frontend Engineer to support our customers and join our passionate team of high-impact problem solvers. In your role as a Principal Full Stack Engineer, you will lead the design and development of scalable, user-centric frontend systems that power Raft's flagship products. You'll architect and implement robust solutions using React, Vue, and/or Angular while ensuring security, performance, and reliability across mission-critical applications. As a hands-on technical leader, you'll mentor engineers while spending significant time writing code and solving complex technical challenges. You'll work closely with customers at deployment sites, gathering feedback and implementing improvements.
Requirements
- 8+ years of front end and back end software engineering experience using modern, component-based UI frameworks.
- Proven experience building and scaling complex user interfaces and component architectures.
- Deep understanding of DevSecOps principles and practices, including ICAM.
- Experience with containerized deployments and CI/CD pipelines.
- Strong experience with modern full stack architectures and design systems.
- Experience with real-time data visualization and high-performance rendering.
- Knowledge of security best practices for enterprise and government systems.
- Proven track record of mentoring engineering talent.
- Experience designing modular, extensible component systems.
- Proficiency with Agentic AI coding tools.
- Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
- Fast learner, analytical thinker, hands-on approach to technical leadership.
- U.S. citizenship required.
- All work must be conducted within the continental U.S.
- Ability to obtain and maintain an active TS SCI security clearance.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with highly regulated industries or stringent security/compliance standards.
- Familiarity with classification levels and secure development practices.
- Experience with edge computing and tactical deployments.
- Knowledge of AI/ML interface design and data visualization.
- Experience with progressive web apps in air-gapped environments.
- Background in accessible design (WCAG) and real-time data rendering.
- Contributions to open-source projects or technical publications.
- Experience with browser-based geospatial visualization libraries (e.g., Leaflet, OpenLayers, Mapbox).
- Preference for candidates with an active clearance.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of scalable, user-centric frontend systems.
- Architect and implement robust solutions using React, Vue, and/or Angular.
- Ensure security, performance, and reliability across mission-critical applications.
- Mentor engineers.
- Write code and solve complex technical challenges.
- Work closely with customers at deployment sites, gathering feedback and implementing improvements.
Benefits
- Highly competitive salary
- Fully covered healthcare, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) and company match
- Take as you need PTO + 11 paid holidays
- Education & training benefits
- Generous Referral Bonuses
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Principal
Education Level
No Education Listed
