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# Software Engineer (Principal/Expert) - TS/SCI with Polygraph Required

- **Company:** Catalyst
- **Location:** Vienna, VA, United States
- **Salary:** $210,000.0 - $260,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Java (Programming Language), JavaScript (Programming Language), Microsoft Windows, Agile Methodology, Automation of Tests, C++ (Programming Language), Continuous Integration, Linux, DevOps, Python (Programming Language), Scrum Methodology, Software Architecture, Systems Development Life Cycle, Software Engineering, Software Systems, Infrastructure Automation Frameworks, Software Version Control, Programming Languages
- **Published:** July 29, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=14a058d149a08e88

## About the Role

US Citizenships and TS/SCI with Polygraph (no exceptions), * Bachelor's degree and 12+ years of relevant professional software engineering experience (Master's degree and 10+ years also acceptable); additional relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree, * Expert-level proficiency in one or more modern programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C/C++, JavaScript)

 * Extensive experience across the full software development lifecycle (SDLC), including requirements analysis, architecture, design, coding, integration, testing, and deployment
 * Demonstrated experience leading Agile/Scrum development teams
 * Experience with version control and configuration management tools
 * Deep experience developing on Windows and/or Linux operating systems
 * Extensive experience with DevOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, and test automation
 * Demonstrated ability to define software architecture and resolve complex, ambiguous technical problems
 * Excellent critical thinking, technical writing, and oral communication skills, including the ability to present and defend technical solutions to customers and senior stakeholders
 * Principal/Expert positions set technical direction for the program and mentor Senior, Mid-Level, and Junior engineers

## Description

Principal/Expert Software Engineers provide technical leadership across the design, architecture, and delivery of the most complex, mission-critical software systems in support of the customer's requirements. Principal/Expert Software Engineers own major technical decisions, evaluate cross-system design trade-offs, and set engineering direction across Agile development teams. Principal/Expert Software Engineers are expected to mentor Senior, Mid-Level, and Junior engineers, represent technical solutions directly to the customer, and drive the adoption of sound engineering practices across the program.


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