Senior Principal Software Developer (System Security)

Nightwing • Huntsville, AL

1d

About The Position

Nightwing is seeking a seasoned systems programmer to strengthen its flagship software-based cyber resiliency products, which provide OS-level protection for Windows, Linux, and VxWorks environments. The products protect the confidentiality and integrity of data and applications on Department of Defense weapon systems and platforms, including in scenarios where adversaries have escalated privileges and bypassed traditional security controls.

The developer will build security capabilities that lock down execution environments, protect applications and data at rest and during execution, and enable robust cyber detection and response. The role involves deep operating system and low-level security engineering. Kernel development experience is not required at the outset, but candidates should be eager and prepared to develop that expertise.

The position requires eligibility to obtain and maintain a Secret government security clearance and U.S. citizenship. Nightwing describes its work as supporting national security and mission-critical government initiatives.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of professional software development experience in systems-level programming.
• Expert-level C/C++ skills, including a deep understanding of memory management, pointers, and low-level programming concepts.
• Expert OS-level systems programming experience and an understanding of how operating systems work internally.
• Experience debugging complex systems issues using tools such as gdb, WinDbg, Visual Studio Debugger, or similar tools.
• Proficiency with Git in a team environment.
• Ability to learn independently, demonstrated by a track record of mastering new technical domains.
• Typically, a university degree or equivalent experience and at least 10 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree in a related field and at least 7 years of experience.
• Must meet requirements to obtain and maintain a Secret government security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship is required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with kernel modules, device drivers, system services, OS internals projects, or security tools.
• Background in security-sensitive code, such as anti-malware, EDR, security monitoring, or exploit mitigation.
• Understanding of process and thread management, memory management, I/O systems, and interrupt handling.
• Assembly language experience with x86_64 or ARM, including reading and debugging at the instruction level.
• Experience with Python or Batch scripting for automation and testing.
• Familiarity with cryptography, threat modeling, and attack surfaces.
• Knowledge of boot processes, firmware, or hardware security, including TPM, Secure Boot, or UEFI.
• Understanding of Linux Driver Model and/or Windows driver models (WDM/WDF/WDK), including conceptual familiarity.

Responsibilities

• Develop and enhance OS-level security features that operate deep within the operating system.
• Build detection and response mechanisms to counter advanced persistent threats.
• Implement cryptographic binding of sensitive software to trusted hardware.
• Create system lockdown capabilities that minimize the attack surface.
• Integrate with Hardware Root of Trust (HRoT) solutions.
• Protect against sophisticated attacks from well-funded adversaries.
• Support Windows, Linux, and VxWorks platforms.

Benefits

• Access to cutting-edge tools, training, and technologies.
• Recognition for exceptional results.
• Opportunity to learn from senior engineers with over 15 years of experience in mission-critical system protection.
• Opportunity to grow expertise in Linux and Windows internals, kernel development, and low-level security.

What This Job Offers

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