> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2641589-software-developer-level-3-or-4-u](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2641589-software-developer-level-3-or-4-u). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Software Developer (Level 3 or 4) U - **Company:** Northrop Grumman - **Location:** Chantilly, VA, United States (Remote available) - **Salary:** $11,400.0 - $171,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Java (Programming Language), Microsoft Windows, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Advanced Message Queuing Protocol, Automation of Tests, Bash Shell, C++ (Programming Language), Django Web Framework, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Protocol Buffers, Graphical User Interface, Java GUIs, Python (Programming Language), PostgreSQL, Message Broker, Object-Oriented Software Development, Qt (Software), RabbitMQ, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Message Oriented Middleware, Software Engineering, Flask (Web Framework), Software Troubleshooting, Orbital Mechanics, SC Clearance, Containerization, Kubernetes, Real Time Data, Plotly, Apache Kafka, Stream Processing, Docker, Elixir, Microservices - **Published:** August 1, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9071661/software-developer-level-3-or-4-u ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in STEM field with 5 years of professional experience - OR - Master's degree with 3 years of professional experience - OR - PhD with 1 year of professional experience. * Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Top-Secret clearance. * Demonstrated software development experience. * Python application development, C++, Bash scripting experience. * Design and implement mission-planning tools (trajectory generation, timeline creation, resource allocation). * Build graphical user interfaces and APIs that enable operators to create, edit, and validate mission plans. * Integrate real-time data feeds (ephemeris, weather, space-environment models) via the Qpid message bus. * Automate plan validation and collision-avoidance checks using Python-based rule engines., * Bachelor's degree in STEM field with 8 years of professional experience - OR - Master's degree with 6 years of professional experience - OR - PhD with 4 years of professional experience. * Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Top-Secret clearance. * Demonstrated software development experience. * Python application development, C++, Bash scripting experience. * Design and implement mission-planning tools (trajectory generation, timeline creation, resource allocation). * Build graphical user interfaces and APIs that enable operators to create, edit, and validate mission plans. * Integrate real-time data feeds (ephemeris, weather, space-environment models) via the Qpid message bus. * Automate plan validation and collision-avoidance checks using Python-based rule engines. Preferred Qualifications: * Knowledge of orbital mechanics basics (or willingness to learn), experience with GUI frameworks (e.g., Flask/Django, Plotly/D3), familiarity with real-time data streaming (Kafka, RabbitMQ), understanding of mission-timeline concepts. * Strong preference given to Top Secret. ## Description Expand your horizons, advance your career, and contribute to a secure future for generations. Northrop Grumman's Space Sector invites you to bring your pioneering spirit to our collaborative teams. As a Software Developer you'll be a linchpin in missions of paramount importance, defining the art of the possible from day one. This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work. In these roles, the focus will be on development, integration, deployment, and sustainment of satellite ground software. This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off., * Full-stack development at the OS, platform, and mission-unique software layer. * Develop client and server applications and services using service-oriented or object-oriented architectures, micro-services, and message-bus-based data exchange that include first-of-a-kind capabilities. * Tech stack - Primary language Python (with C++ and occasional Java), PostgreSQL, Qpid message broker (AMQP) - exploring gRPC (both use Protocol Buffers). * GUIs built in Qt (transitioning to web-based GUIs using Elixir). * Containerization with Docker for local development and Kubernetes for production orchestration. * Operating systems: Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Windows workstations. * Act as a self-starter capable of making decisions with overall project budget and schedule in mind. * Support ground-software operations and associated configurations, including troubleshooting software errors and hardware affecting ground software. * Support Acceptance Test events, run tests, and provide test automation. * Configure ground-segment software, resolve and remediate software defects, and deliver enhancements per customer change requests or mission needs. * Provide ground-software support during launch and launch-rehearsal events. * Other duties as assigned This position is contingent upon the candidate obtaining final clearances and program access(es) within a reasonable period of time as determined by the company. This position can be filled at either a Level 3 or Level 4. ## Related Videos - [Quantum DevOps - Quantum Application Development](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1441-quantum-devops-quantum-application-development) - [Docker Compose: Rediscovered](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1978-docker-compose-rediscovered) - [Bringing digital education to refugee and host communities in remote regions of Africa](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/644-bringing-digital-education-to-refugee-and-host-communities-in-remote-regions-of-africa) - [Python Data Visualization @ Deepnote (w/ PyViz overview)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/113-python-data-visualization-deepnote-w-pyviz-overview) - [Remote Driving on Plant Grounds with State-of-the-Art Cloud Technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/251-remote-driving-on-plant-grounds-with-state-of-the-art-cloud-technologies) - [Docker build without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100114-docker-build-without-docker) ## Related Articles - [How We Built a Worry-Free System That Runs for 10+ Years – And What We’d Do Again](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/751-how-we-built-a-worry-free-system-that-runs-for-10-years-and-what-we-d-do-again) - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [Why Upskilling And Reskilling is Important For Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/428-why-upskilling-and-reskilling-is-important-for-developers) - [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs) - [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs)