Senior Software Architect

Galapagos Federal Systems LLC.•Washington, DC

1d•$180,000 - $220,000

About The Position

Galapagos Federal Systems LLC is seeking a highly qualified and motivated Senior Software Engineer to support a high-visibility initiative within the Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office (AF RCO). This position provides expert software engineering guidance throughout the acquisition lifecycle, advising government leadership on technical strategies, source selection, and program risk management. The ideal candidate will be a proactive, results-driven professional with strong technical expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently. This role requires adaptability, effective problem-solving skills, and the ability to deliver timely solutions in a fast-paced, rapid acquisition environment.

Requirements

Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance
15+ years of software engineering experience, including at least 8 years in a software architect, chief software engineer, or technical leadership role
Extensive experience supporting DoD space, command and control (C2), ground systems, or national security software programs
Demonstrated expertise evaluating software architectures, development strategies, and technical risks related to cost, schedule, performance, and cybersecurity
Hands-on experience with Agile development, DevSecOps, CI/CD pipelines, containerization, Kubernetes, and cloud environments such as AWS GovCloud or Azure Government
Working knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, Software Acquisition Pathway, Risk Management Framework (RMF), Authority to Operate (ATO), and DoDI 5000.87
Experience reviewing technical documentation, contractor proposals, and software development strategies
Proven ability to develop technical recommendations and present complex information to senior government and military leadership
Experience with satellite C2, mission data processing, ground segment modernization, MILSATCOM, missile warning, or Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) programs
Previous experience supporting Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA), or independent technical assessments
Familiarity with MOSA, government reference architectures, software data rights, and vendor integration
Experience conducting software cost estimates and independent technical risk assessments, including Software Resources Data Reports and Independent Technical Risk Assessments (ITRAs)
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical field
Current Counterintelligence (CI) polygraph

Nice To Haves

Relevant certifications such as TOGAF, AWS/Azure Solutions Architect, CISSP, or DAWIA/Back-to-Basics Engineering or Software credentials

Responsibilities

Evaluate software architectures and development approaches to identify technical, cost, schedule, cybersecurity, and operational risks across multiple programs
Assess software implementation strategies, including government reference architectures, COTS/GOTS solutions, cloud environments, microservices, and custom development
Identify cross-program dependencies, integration challenges, and technical risks impacting portfolio performance and mission objectives
Evaluate software strategies for compliance with DoD Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP), DevSecOps, and Software Modernization Strategy guidance
Review software architectures, development plans, Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs), and contractor proposals, providing independent technical assessments and recommendations
Advise on Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), interface standards, data rights, and strategies to minimize vendor dependency
Assess software development environments, CI/CD pipelines, and continuous Authority to Operate (cATO) capabilities to improve delivery efficiency
Develop technical assessments, risk analyses, decision memoranda, and executive briefings for senior DoD and government leadership
Facilitate technical discussions with government representatives, FFRDCs, SETA personnel, and contractors to resolve complex engineering challenges
Support source selections, technical evaluations, software cost assessments, and acquisition decisions
Evaluate emerging technologies, including AI/ML, edge computing, and zero-trust architectures, for potential mission applications and implementation risks