SSDS Software Engineer

About The Role:

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking a SSDS Software Engineer to be part of our Advanced Capabilities team and based out of our Arlington, VA location.

This SSDS Software Engineer will focus heavily on designing, developing, integrating, and testing tactical combat system software interfaces, specifically interacting with naval combatants (SSDS), fire control loops, and self-defense systems (RAM/CIWS). This role requires full-time presence on-site at our Arlington, VA office.

Clearance & Location Requirements:

• All applicants must currently possess an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
• This is a fully on-site position, based out of our Arlington, VA location.

Key Responsibilities

What You Will Do:

• Design, implement, and test high-performance tactical software components using modern C++ or Java.
• Integrate software components with complex Navy tactical combat systems, specifically developing interfaces and middleware wrappers for SSDS, RAM, or CIWS data streams.
• Build low-latency software interfaces to transport tactical messages across network protocols (TCP/UDP, DDS, ActiveMQ, Kafka).
• Prototype next-generation automated testing solutions and support integration within IDT labs and on-site Navy land-based test sites (LBTS).
• Translate complex tactical Navy weapon specifications and ICDs (Interface Control Documents) into functional, automated test scripts and software requirements.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Who You Are (Required):

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics or other STEM field (or equivalent full-time professional experience)
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in the design, development, and management of complex software systems for the DoD.
• Ability to travel up to 10% of the time as needed
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or Java, with an understanding of memory management and real-time execution constraints.
• Navy Combat Systems Exposure: Hands-on software development or integration experience supporting tactical Navy programs (such as SSDS, RAM, or CIWS).
• Tactical Networking: Experience with publish-subscribe middleware like DDS (Data Distribution Service) and standard network protocols.
• Development Workflow: Proficiency with Git/SVN, Jira, Confluence, and working within structured Software Development Life Cycles (SDLC).

What Makes You Stand Out:

• DevOps & Containers: Experience with containerization (Docker, Podman), orchestration (Kubernetes, Swarm), and deployment automation (Ansible, Salt, Terraform).
• CI/CD Tools: Experience with Jenkins, JFrog Artifactory, and GitLab CI pipelines.
• Infrastructure: Experience with virtualization (VMware ESXi) and configuring basic network topologies (VLANs, routing).
• Experience with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and configuration management tools (e.g., Terraform, Ansible).

If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network.

Pay Range*: $114,000 - $184,000 or $135,000 - $231,000

This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.

Job Benefits

Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):

IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:

• Generous benefits package
• Competitive PTO
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
• 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
• Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
• Professional Development Resources
• Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
• Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards
• Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches

EEO Statement:

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.