Software Engineer, Level 0 with Security Clearance
The Software Engineer Level 0 role involves developing, maintaining, and enhancing software applications that support critical national security government systems. This entry-level position requires collaboration within an experienced engineering team to design, code, test, and debug software solutions while adhering to best practices and supporting mission objectives. The role offers career growth opportunities in a supportive, employee-focused environment with a strong emphasis on continual learning and national security impact.
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 (Government & Defense).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
As a Software Engineer, Level 0 you will contribute to the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software that supports mission‑critical government systems. This is an entry-level role on an engineering team working in a secure, high-assurance environment.
- Analyze user and system requirements to produce software design and performance solutions
- Design, implement, test, and maintain software components and applications
- Debug and resolve defects in existing codebases
- Modify software to add new features, improve performance, and address portability or integration needs
- Integrate software into new or modified operating environments and support deployment activities
- Develop and run test cases; document test results and assist with system validation
- Write simple database queries and interact with existing data repositories
- Participate in design discussions, including hardware/software tradeoffs and reuse of COTS/GOTS solutions
- Follow SDLC processes and engineering best practices, including code reviews and version control
- Collaborate with software and system engineers to deliver reliable, secure, high-performance solutions
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Basic knowledge of software development principles and object-oriented programming
- Familiarity with one or more languages such as Java, Python, C++, or similar
- Understanding of the software development lifecycle (SDLC) and common development tools
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative engineering team
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Demonstrated willingness and ability to learn new technologies and development tools
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical discipline from an accredited institution OR
- Four (4) years of relevant Software Engineering experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree
Clearance Requirement
- Must possess an active TS/SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role. Candidates must meet and maintain all national security eligibility requirements.
Location & Compensation
- Work location: Savage / Annapolis Junction, MD (supporting government sites in the Fort Meade area)
- Employment type: Full-time
- Estimated compensation: $90,579 per year (estimated)
Why Join Our Client
Working for this Confidential Client you will:
- Support critical national security and government missions
- Join a collaborative, employee-focused engineering team with professional development opportunities
- Receive competitive benefits and paid training opportunities
- Work with modern engineering practices and tools in a mission-driven environment
Preferred / Nice-to-Have
- Coursework or project experience in systems that require high reliability, security, or real-time performance
- Familiarity with secure coding practices, containerization, or CI/CD toolchains
- Internship or co-op experience on software development teams
Compliance & Accommodations
Careertakes and our client are committed to fair hiring. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request for candidates participating in the application or interview process. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and, due to the clearance requirement, must meet citizenship and security-eligibility criteria.
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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