Software Development Engineer in Test

Owl Cyber Defense•Columbia, MD

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) – Automation & Performance plays a key role in ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of cross-domain networking and filtering devices. This role focuses on building automated test solutions, executing performance benchmarks, and supporting the validation of systems that control and secure data flows across security boundaries. The ideal candidate is a skilled software developer who is passionate about technology, enjoys solving complex problems, and thrives in a small, tightly knit engineering team where collaboration, ownership, and hands-on contribution are essential.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience
Proven track record of innovating with Python, Ansible, Java, or bash (any or all).
Solid understanding and experience with Network (Routing/Switching) Architecture and troubleshooting
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Genuine enthusiasm for technology and engineering
Enjoyment of hands-on work and learning new systems
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
Clear written and verbal communication skills
Ability to collaborate effectively in small, tightly knit teams
Candidates must be able to obtain/maintain a US Government security clearance

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with performance or load testing concepts (preferred)
Experience working with Linux-based systems (preferred)
Understanding of networking protocols and data flow concepts (preferred)
Experience working in secure, regulated, or controlled environments (preferred)
Experience Packet Capture and Playback automation (preferred)

Responsibilities

Performance Benchmarking Plan and execute performance, throughput, latency, and stress testing
Establish and maintain performance baselines for cross-domain devices
Identify performance risks related to data volume, protocol complexity, and system configuration
Analyze and communicate performance results and trends
Test Automation and Quality Engineering Design, develop, and maintain automated test solutions for cross-domain networking and filtering systems
Support automated functional, integration, and system-level testing
Increase automation coverage to reduce reliance on manual testing
Verify correct enforcement of filtering rules, data handling, and protocol behavior
Collaboration and Team Engagement Work closely with developers, systems engineers, and test team members in a small, collaborative environment
Participate in design, requirement, and test reviews
Share ideas, raise quality concerns early, and contribute to continuous improvement
Take ownership of assigned work and support team success