Job Description
Job description
Description
This is not just about maintenance; it’s about transformation.
Leidos is on the lookout for a Lead Software Engineer to spearhead the creation and implementation of advanced AI-driven software platforms and development tools aimed at modernizing essential systems.
In this role, you will provide technical leadership at the system level, defining the architectural vision within your area of expertise, tackling intricate technical challenges, and shaping how teams approach software design, development, and operation. As a hands-on leader, you'll influence project outcomes through technical excellence and mentorship rather than formal management.
This position is designed for innovators who prefer action, believe in balancing disruption with rigor, and aspire to leverage cutting-edge AI technology to address significant challenges.
Mission Context
Our teams modernize software systems that underpin critical national missions in regulated and safety-focused sectors. These systems must embody:
• High reliability, security, and resilience
• Scalable and maintainable architectures
• Responsible and governed use of AI technologies
As a Lead Software Engineer, you will establish the technical foundations that will allow these systems to evolve safely and efficiently over time.
Why Join Us?
• Play a crucial role in shaping the technical bases of mission-critical capabilities
• Lead robust engineering efforts that extend beyond just theoretical architecture
• Apply AI technology ethically to tackle complex, high-stakes challenges
• Operate at the forefront of technical innovation without moving into management
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership & Architecture
• Act as the technical owner for key systems or platforms aligned with our strategic direction
• Define and iterate architectural patterns, design standards, and reference implementations
• Conduct design reviews and guide teams toward sound technical solutions
• Identify and mitigate complex technical risks that span multiple components or teams
Hands-On Engineering
• Design and develop critical or high-risk components
• Enhance code quality across teams through thorough technical reviews
• Prototype and validate innovative approaches prior to broader implementation
• Ensure systems adhere to requirements for scalability, reliability, security, and maintainability
AI-Enabled Systems Leadership
• Lead the technical blueprint for AI-enabled capabilities using recognized models, frameworks, and platforms
• Establish best practices for:
• AI integration and orchestration
• Evaluation, testing, and validation
• Safety, governance, and human-in-the-loop controls
• Guide teams in the responsible application of AI within operational systems
Cross-Team Influence & Mentorship
• Serve as a technical authority and escalation point across various teams
• Mentor senior and mid-level engineers, raising the technical standards
• Influence engineering practices, tooling, and standards through example
• Collaborate with product, security, and platform leaders to align technical solutions with mission objectives
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field
• 12+ years of experience in software engineering
• Proven experience leading the design of complex, distributed systems
• Expertise in two or more modern programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, Go, TypeScript)
• In-depth knowledge of:
• Service-based or microservice architectures
• Cloud-native systems and deployment models
• Software quality, security, and operational best practices
• Strong understanding of Kubernetes and container orchestration:
• GitOps deployments
• Service Mesh
• Tools like Helm and Kustomize
• Demonstrated capability to influence technical direction without formal authority
• Excellent communication skills for diverse audiences, technical and non-technical
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience designing or integrating AI-driven or data-centric systems in production
• Experience working with agentic solutions in Kubernetes:
• E.g., KServe, KAgent
• Agent Gateways
• Agent Registries
• GPU-enabled nodes
• Experience in secure or regulated environments
• Background in developer tools, platform modernization, or large-scale system evolution
If you are looking for stability, this might not be the right fit. At Leidos, we strive to think differently, build innovatively, and advance beyond the status quo, as our mission demands it. We seek individuals who challenge conventions, provoke thought, and are determined to succeed.
Pay Range: Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00
The Leidos pay range for this role is a guideline only and does not guarantee compensation. Factors influencing the offer include responsibilities of the job, education, experience, skills, abilities, and market alignment.
About Leidos
Leidos is a leader in industry and technology, serving government and commercial clients with innovative digital and mission solutions. Based in Reston, Virginia, Leidos employs 47,000 individuals worldwide and reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ending January 3, 2025.
Pay and Benefits
Compensation and benefits are crucial aspects of any career decision. We offer competitive compensation packages that reflect the significance of our work. Employment benefits include competitive pay, health and wellness programs, income protection, paid leave, and retirement options.
Applicants should be aware of potential employment scams using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never request payment-related information during the application process and will communicate only through official channels. If you suspect fraud, please report it to your local law enforcement and the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law. Leidos will also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.
