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Application Developer (Entry Level to SME) TS/SCI with Poly REQUIRED

Confidential Client•Software & Technology
Entry LevelFull-timeHybrid$147,262
Arlington, Virginia
15 Hours Ago

The Application Developer role at Confidential Client supports the national security mission by designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications across various experience levels from entry to SME. The position requires active TS/SCI with Poly clearance and involves collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable, secure, and high-quality IT solutions in a hybrid work environment. Responsibilities range from coding and debugging to leading complex system architecture and mentoring development teams.

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Description

About Careertakes

👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, IT.

Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.


Role overview

Confidential Client is hiring Application Developers across levels (Entry → SME) to support mission-focused IT solutions in Arlington, VA. These roles contribute to the full software lifecycle — from coding and testing to architecture and production support — and operate in hybrid on-site/remote arrangements. All candidates must hold an active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph.


What you’ll do

Responsibilities vary by level; examples below show typical duties at each stage:

  • Entry Level

    • Write and maintain clean, simple source code (JavaScript, Python, Java, or similar).
    • Run unit and integration tests and perform basic debugging and fixes.
    • Build simple prototypes and update technical documentation.
    • Support deployment and routine maintenance tasks under supervision.
  • Junior Level

    • Implement and maintain application code per design specifications.
    • Participate in functional and non-functional testing; execute test plans.
    • Produce and maintain technical documentation and support end users.
    • Contribute to design meetings and requirement-gathering sessions.
  • Mid Level

    • Develop scalable code for applications, APIs, and data integrations.
    • Define technical requirements and create design artifacts and prototypes.
    • Design test plans, lead unit testing, and resolve complex defects.
    • Provide technical guidance to users and produce comprehensive documentation.
  • Senior / SME Level

    • Architect robust, scalable, secure systems and back-end data schemas.
    • Lead development teams, conduct code reviews, and set technical standards.
    • Drive complex API integrations, event-driven data flows, and cloud-native services.
    • Act as subject-matter expert: translate business requirements, lead troubleshooting, and mentor staff.

Required clearance & work model

  • Active TS/SCI with Polygraph required for all levels.
  • Location: Arlington, VA (hybrid work model acceptable; on-site presence expected as needed).

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications vary by level; representative requirements below:

  • Entry Level

    • High school diploma/GED + 4 years relevant experience, OR
    • Associate degree + 2 years, OR
    • Bachelor’s degree (0 years required).
    • Foundational programming knowledge, SQL basics, and version control.
    • Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Junior Level

    • High school diploma/GED + 6 years, Associate + 4 years, Bachelor + 2 years, or Master’s (0 years).
    • Proficiency in languages such as Java, Python, C#, or JavaScript.
    • Familiarity with databases, Git/SVN, and basic SDLC practices.
  • Mid Level

    • High school diploma/GED + 8 years, Associate + 6, Bachelor + 4, Master + 2, or PhD (0 years).
    • Proficiency with modern languages (C#, Java, Python, JavaScript), SQL/Oracle.
    • Experience with RESTful APIs, cloud (AWS/Azure), and SDLC.
  • SME / Exceptionally Complex

    • High school diploma/GED + 10 years, Associate + 8, Bachelor + 6, Master + 4, or PhD + 2.
    • Mastery of web frameworks, CI/CD/DevOps, SQL/NoSQL, and cloud-native architectures.
    • Deep security awareness, strong systems-thinking, and stakeholder communication.

Compensation & benefits

Confidential Client provides a competitive pay range and a comprehensive benefits package. For U.S.-based hires, a reasonable estimate of the pay range for this role is:

  • $89,600.00 – $204,000.00 per year (actual pay depends on level, experience, and other factors).

Benefits typically include:

  • Competitive base pay and comprehensive insurance options.
  • 401(k) matching and share purchase plan contributions.
  • Paid time off, paid parental leave, and wellness programs.
  • Learning and tuition assistance.

Equal opportunity & accommodations

Confidential Client and Careertakes are equal opportunity employers and prohibit discrimination of any kind. Confidential Client provides reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants with disabilities. If you need an accommodation to apply, please contact Careertakes for assistance.


Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency

Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.

If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.

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