Forward Deployed Software Engineer - Tactical Edge
The Forward Deployed Software Engineer - Tactical Edge role involves working directly with customers to design and implement data-driven software solutions in high-stakes environments. The engineer will independently manage end-to-end projects, deploy and maintain software across diverse hardware, and collaborate closely with technical and non-technical stakeholders to solve critical operational problems. This position requires strong technical expertise, adaptability, and a willingness to travel frequently, contributing to impactful, real-world applications of Confidential Client's platforms.
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, Technology, Information and Internet.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
Confidential Client is seeking a Forward Deployed Software Engineer - Tactical Edge to join a small, highly autonomous team focused on deploying and operating mission-critical software on constrained and varied hardware platforms. This role combines hands-on software engineering, systems and network troubleshooting, and architectural decision-making in field environments. The position is based in Washington, DC.
What You’ll Do
- Own end-to-end technical delivery for high-stakes projects on the tactical edge — design, deploy, operate, and iterate.
- Deploy and manage software across diverse hardware form factors and constrained environments.
- Debug infrastructure, networking, and application issues in complex, on-premise or edge environments.
- Collaborate with product teams and developers to adapt platform capabilities to field requirements.
- Present technical options and strategy to stakeholders and customer leadership.
- Work autonomously in small teams with minimal supervision and rapidly changing objectives.
- Travel to customer sites as required (approximately 25–75%).
Required Qualifications
- Active U.S. security clearance at or above Top Secret, or willingness to obtain/upgrade to Top Secret.
- Strong Linux systems experience and practical knowledge of networking and on-premise infrastructure.
- Experience with containers (Docker/Podman) and orchestration platforms (OpenShift, Kubernetes).
- Proficiency in one or more programming languages such as Python, Java, Bash, JavaScript, or Go.
- Solid understanding of data structures, storage systems, and front-end frameworks is preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, make technical decisions, and collaborate with both technical and non-technical partners.
- Willingness and ability to travel for field deployments and customer engagements (~25–75%).
What We Value
- Strong engineering fundamentals (Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or equivalent experience).
- Pragmatic problem solving and a focus on delivering impact for customers.
- Ownership mentality — seeing projects through from discovery to production.
- Ability to learn quickly in ambiguous or novel technical domains.
- Clear communication skills and the capacity to operate effectively in cross-functional teams.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $135,000 - $200,000 per year (base). Total compensation may include Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), sign-on bonus, and other incentives. Final compensation will be determined by individual qualifications, experience, and other permitted factors.
- Benefits include medical, dental, and vision options; basic life, AD&D and disability insurance; commuter benefits; paid time off; paid holidays; parental leave; family-building benefits; 401(k) enrollment where applicable; and other region-specific perks.
Note: This posting provides a salary range in compliance with pay transparency expectations. The posted range is the good-faith estimate supplied by the hiring organization and applies to the position in Washington, DC.
Work Location & Schedule
- Primary work location: Washington, DC. This role supports onsite and field deployments; hybrid options may be available based on business needs and team practice.
- Travel: Approximately 25%–75%, depending on project and deployment schedule.
Legal & Compliance
- Confidential Client and Careertakes comply with all applicable U.S. federal, state, and local hiring laws. Applicants will not be required to disclose medical information before a conditional offer is made. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities; please request accommodations through the hiring process.
- Employment eligibility (I-9) and background checks may be required in accordance with federal and regional laws.
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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