Java Software Engineer Level 1 or 2 with Security Clearance
The Java Software Engineer Level 1 or 2 at Confidential Client is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining robust Java applications within an Agile team environment. The role requires active Top Secret clearance and involves working on high-impact defense programs with a focus on scalable, high-performance software solutions. This position offers career growth opportunities in a collaborative, innovative setting based in Aurora, CO, with occasional travel.
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.
Overview
Confidential Client is hiring a Java Software Engineer (Level 1 or Level 2) to join an Aurora, CO-based software team working on mission-critical, secure systems. You will design, build, and maintain Java applications, work in Agile 2-week sprints, and integrate services using RESTful APIs and modern databases. This role requires an active Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility and U.S. citizenship.
What You’ll Do
- Design, develop, test, and maintain high-performance Java applications and microservices.
- Implement and consume RESTful APIs to enable cross-system integrations.
- Participate in Agile ceremonies (2-week sprints), code reviews, and iterative feature delivery.
- Integrate with SQL and/or NoSQL databases and help shape data access patterns.
- Use Git and modern version-control workflows (GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket).
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (systems, integration, hardware) to deliver program increments.
- Support occasional travel (~10%) and work on-site in Aurora, CO; follow program security protocols.
Minimum Qualifications
Level 1 (Entry)
- Bachelor’s degree in science OR equivalent experience (0+ years required) — or 4 additional years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree.
- Thorough understanding of the Java programming language.
- Experience with RESTful APIs and microservices.
- Familiarity with Git version control and CI workflows.
- Demonstrated success working on Agile teams.
- Experience integrating with SQL and/or NoSQL databases.
- Firm understanding of the Software Development Lifecycle.
- Requires an active Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility at time of application.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
Level 2 (Early Career)
- Bachelor’s degree in science with 2+ years of software development experience (or Master’s with 0+ years), or 4 additional years of experience in lieu of a degree.
- All Level 1 requirements plus demonstrated contributions on production software projects.
Preferred Qualifications
- CompTIA Security+ certification.
- Experience with Linux-based development and deployment.
- Prior experience on cross-functional teams delivering incremental releases.
- Strong understanding of peer review processes and iterative feature development.
Compensation & Benefits
- Level 1 salary range: $76,200 — $114,400 per year.
- Level 2 salary range: $91,800 — $137,600 per year.
- Pay will be determined based on role level, experience, education, skills, and market conditions.
- Benefits may include medical, life and disability insurance, retirement savings plans, paid time off, company holidays, and eligibility for discretionary bonuses or long-term incentives depending on role.
- Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
Location & Clearance
- Work location: Aurora, CO (on-site).
- Clearance: Active Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility required at time of application.
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship required for positions requiring government clearance.
Why Join?
- Work on secure, mission-focused systems that have real-world impact.
- Join a growing software department with a range of career-advancement paths into technical or leadership roles.
- Collaborate in a diverse, inclusive culture that values intellectual curiosity and cross-discipline teamwork.
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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