> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3073860-principal-cno-developer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3073860-principal-cno-developer). 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). --- # Principal CNO Developer - **Company:** TAP Engineering - **Location:** Hanover, MD, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $190,000.0 - $215,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** C (Programming Language), Java (Programming Language), Microsoft Windows, Adobe InDesign, Applications Architecture, C++ (Programming Language), Network Sockets, Code Review, Information Systems, Custom Software, Software Debugging, Perl (Programming Language), Python (Programming Language), Microsoft Visual Studio, Network Protocols, Performance Tuning, Software Tools, Software Engineering, Data Streaming, System Programming, Systems Integration, Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), Software Application Programming, Information Technology - **Published:** September 25, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9052729/principal-cno-developer ## About the Role * Active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Network Engineering, or a related field + OR 16 years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree * 12+ years of experience in software engineering or development roles + OR 10+ years with a Master's degree + OR 8+ years with a Doctorate * Expert-level experience with one or more programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Python, Assembly, or similar * Strong experience with network socket programming and packet-level development * Deep understanding of IP, TCP, and application-level protocols * Experience developing applications in Windows (.NET/Visual Studio) and/or Unix/Linux environments * Proven ability to lead technical efforts and guide development teams * Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills Preferred Qualifications * Experience with low-level or embedded system development * Strong background in secure software development practices * Experience developing and integrating complex, large-scale systems * Experience mentoring and leading junior engineers * Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences ## Description TAP Engineering is seeking a Principal CNO Developer to lead the design, development, and delivery of advanced software tools and capabilities in a mission-focused environment. This role is ideal for a senior technical leader with deep expertise in low-level programming, network protocols, and complex system integration. The Principal CNO Developer will play a key role in architecting and developing end-to-end data flows, guiding technical direction, and leading the development of innovative solutions. This position requires strong leadership, the ability to work independently, and collaboration across engineering teams to deliver high-impact capabilities., * Lead the design, development, and implementation of custom software tools and capabilities * Architect and develop end-to-end data flows and tasking within complex software systems * Develop applications across Windows, UNIX/Linux, and embedded or mobile environments * Write and maintain code in languages such as Assembly, C, C++, Java, Perl, or Python * Provide technical leadership and direction across software development efforts * Lead and participate in design reviews, code reviews, and software readiness activities * Perform advanced debugging, testing, and validation of complex software systems * Develop and present technical documentation and briefings * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate and optimize system performance * Drive the development of new solutions that meet evolving technical and mission requirements ## Related Videos - [Python-Based Data Streaming Pipelines Within Minutes](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1233-python-based-data-streaming-pipelines-within-minutes) - [Are Code Reviews Worth It? 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That alone won’t get you far: The soft skills secret in IT success](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1076-you-re-a-great-coder-that-alone-won-t-get-you-far-the-soft-skills-secret-in-it-success) - [Why and when should we consider Stream Processing frameworks in our solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1085-why-and-when-should-we-consider-stream-processing-frameworks-in-our-solutions) - [Build a CI/CD pipeline to automate code reviews and ensure code quality](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/349-build-a-ci-cd-pipeline-to-automate-code-reviews-and-ensure-code-quality) - [Why Your Best Mediors Never Become Seniors (And How to Fix It)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2108-why-your-best-mediors-never-become-seniors-and-how-to-fix-it) ## Related Articles - [What’s the Difference between a Junior, Mid, and Senior Developer?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/238-what-s-the-difference-between-a-junior-mid-and-senior-developer) - [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) - [7 Important Tips That Every Software Developer Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/101-7-important-tips-that-every-software-developer-should-know) - [Résumé-Driven Development: How IT trends affect the job market for software developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/59-resume-driven-development-how-it-trends-affect-the-job-market-for-software-developers) - [Top Characteristics of a Software Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/166-top-characteristics-of-a-software-engineer) - [The 10 C++ programming questions to expect in an interview](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/50-the-10-c-programming-questions-to-expect-in-an-interview)