Software Engineer - Networking and Time Synchronization

Pacific Defense • Mukilteo, WA

149d

About The Position

Pacific Defense is designed to support the DoD’s disciplined movement to modular open standards. The company’s approach inherently enables what it refers to as a rapid prototyping paradigm – embedding a commercial mentality into the defense industry. Products are designed from the outset for modern, AI-driven autonomy and CMOSS and SOSA-aligned hardware and software solutions. This includes state-of-the-art processing that can readily follow the evolution of commercial technology with complete data sharing across networks and platforms. We are seeking a Software Engineer – Networking and Time Synchronization to design, implement, and maintain secure, high-performance network infrastructures that support our defense programs. This role involves working closely with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure the reliability, security, and scalability of classified and unclassified networks in compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) standards. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of Ethernet MAC layers, 802.11 protocols, switching concepts, and precision time protocols like PTP/NTP.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Active [Secret/Top Secret/TS-SCI] clearance (or ability to obtain).
• 3+ years of experience in network engineering, preferably in a defense or government contracting environment.
• Proficiency in C/C++ programming.
• Experience with Linux development environments.
• Familiarity with network debugging tools (e.g., Wireshark, tcpdump).
• Knowledge of network security protocols (e.g., TLS/SSL).
• Proficiency in configuring and managing Cisco, Juniper, or similar network hardware.
• Strong understanding of TCP/IP, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, EIGRP), timing protocols (PTP, NTP), VLANs, and VPN technologies.
• Experience with network monitoring tools (SolarWinds, PRTG, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of DoD security standards and hardening guides (STIGs).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with embedded systems development.
• CCNA, CCNP, or similar industry certifications.
• Familiarity with DISA networks and DoD Information Network (DoDIN) operations.
• Experience supporting mission-critical, high-security environments.
• Understanding of RF communications or SATCOM integration in defense networks.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and manage enterprise network infrastructure (LAN/WAN, VPN, VoIP, and secure wireless).
• Develop and debug embedded software for networking devices, potentially including firmware development.
• Analyze network traffic and performance to identify and resolve bottlenecks.
• Contribute to the development of system architectures and design specifications.
• Implement and maintain precision time protocols (PTP/NTP) for accurate time synchronization across systems.
• Implement and maintain network security measures including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and encryption technologies.
• Support and optimize network performance through proactive monitoring, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis.
• Investigate and resolve complex software defects and performance issues.
• Maintain compliance with DoD cybersecurity policies (e.g., RMF, STIGs, NIST 800-53).
• Collaborate with system engineers, cybersecurity teams, and program managers to integrate networking solutions into defense systems.
• Provide technical documentation, network diagrams, and configuration standards.
• Support the setup and maintenance of both classified and unclassified networks.
• Participate in network modernization projects, technology refresh initiatives, and system migrations.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries.
• Immediately vested 401K match.
• 100% coverage options for the employee, and 75% coverage for dependents’ medical, dental, vision, and life insurance premiums.
• Flexible spending account for incidental health care expenses.
• Paid time off and federal holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees