Software Engineer Associate
The Software Engineer Associate at Confidential Client contributes to the design, development, and testing of software applications supporting the Missile Defense System. Working within agile teams, the role involves developing Java applications, resolving complex software issues, and collaborating across disciplines to enhance critical defense technologies. This position requires a security clearance and involves some travel to customer sites.
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, Defense and Space Manufacturing.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
Confidential Client is seeking a Software Engineer Associate to join an agile development team working on mission-critical missile defense capabilities. You will design, implement, test, and maintain software components used in sensor/weapon integration, algorithm development, user interfaces, and automated testing. This is an onsite, full-time role based in Huntsville, AL. The role requires the ability to obtain a DoD Interim Secret security clearance (U.S. citizenship required). Travel to customer sites in the U.S. is approximately 10%.
What You’ll Do
- Design, develop, and maintain Java-based applications and other software components.
- Implement new features and maintain legacy systems while improving reliability and performance.
- Support software testing, troubleshooting, and resolution of issues across multiple baselines.
- Perform in-depth analysis and technical support for systems and software products.
- Produce software design artifacts and participate in design and code reviews.
- Assist with coding, benchmark testing, debugging, and documentation.
- Interface and coordinate with other system support groups and cross-functional teams.
- Contribute to automation, CI/CD, and build processes using industry-standard tools.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical field.
- Ability to obtain a DoD Interim Secret security clearance (requires U.S. citizenship).
- Experience with at least one modern programming language (C++, C, C#, and/or Java). Java and C++ experience preferred.
- Software development experience on Linux (experience with Red Hat Enterprise Linux preferred).
- Familiarity with version control systems (Git) and basic software engineering practices.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to collaborate across teams.
Preferred / Desired Skills
- Experience with Python, JavaScript, and HTML.
- Knowledge of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) environments.
- Experience with automation tools (Ansible) and CI/CD build tools (Maven, Gradle).
- Containerization and microservices experience.
- Experience with Eclipse and automated unit testing frameworks.
- Software design and architecture experience; performance analysis and optimization.
- Hardware/software integration and system-level testing experience.
- Experience developing complex mathematical algorithms from design documentation or whitepapers.
- Familiarity with security tools (Fortify, SonarQube) and resolving identified issues.
- Experience using JIRA and Confluence for agile development.
- Certifications such as Security+ are a plus.
Location & Travel
- Onsite — Huntsville, AL (work performed at a designated client facility).
- Approximately 10% travel to customer sites across the U.S.
- Full-time employment.
Why Join
- Work on high-impact, mission-critical defense systems.
- Competitive benefits and ongoing career development.
- Mentorship and recognition programs.
- Medical, dental, and retirement savings (401k) options, plus paid time off.
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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