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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Staff Ground Software Architect - Space Ground Systems AHT - **Company:** Northrop Grumman - **Location:** McLean, VA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $177,000.0 - $265,600.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Java (Programming Language), Agile Methodology, Systems Engineering, Confluence, JIRA, Bash Shell, C++ (Programming Language), Configuration Management, Code Review, Computer Engineering, Continuous Integration, DevOps, Eclipse (Software), Python (Programming Language), Kernel-Based Virtual Machine, Software Architecture, Quick EMUlator (QEMU), Rhapsody, Shell Script, Software Engineering, Verification and Validation (Software), Data Streaming, System Testing, Systems Integration, VirtualBox, Virtualization Technology, Gitlab, Git, Containerization, Linux Development, Kubernetes, Information Technology, Atlassian Tools, Bitbucket, Atlassian Bamboo, Docker, Jenkins, Vmware, Programming Languages - **Published:** October 2, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9213407/staff-ground-software-architect-space-ground-systems-aht ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) discipline and 12+ years of relevant software experience; OR Master's degree in STEM and 10+ years of relevant software experience; OR PhD in STEM and 8+ years of relevant software experience. * Strong background in software development and software architecture for complex systems. * In-depth working knowledge and experience with modern programming languages, such as: + Python + C/C++ + Java * Familiarity with all phases of the software development life cycle and Agile software development practices. * Prior lead or technical leadership experience in a team environment (e.g., tech lead, lead engineer, or architect). * Experience with: + Linux development environments and shell scripting (e.g., Bash) + Containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Podman) + Container orchestration systems (e.g., Kubernetes or similar) + CI/CD and configuration management using industry-standard tools and processes (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab, Bitbucket/Jira, Git, etc.). * Active DoD Top Secret clearance at time of application, with the ability to obtain and maintain any required special program access. * Ability to work onsite full-time in McLean, VA in a secure environment., * Active TS/SCI and current or recent program access. * Master's degree (or higher) in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field. * Experience with: + Model-based systems engineering tools (e.g., Rhapsody, Cameo) + Development environments such as Eclipse + Atlassian and related tools (Jira, Bitbucket, Confluence, Crucible, Bamboo) + Virtualization technologies (e.g., VirtualBox, QEMU, KVM, VMware) + Operating in a DevOps culture with continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD). * Prior experience leading engineering personnel on a Northrop Grumman program, including software architecture oversight and direct interaction with customers and mission operators. * Proven ability to mentor and grow engineering teams, and to influence technical direction across a program or product line. ## Description We are seeking a Staff-level Ground Software Architect (T5) to lead the design and implementation of next-generation ground systems for space programs. This position is based in McLean, VA and requires onsite work in a secure environment., In this role, you will: * Serve as a technical leader and software architect for ground systems supporting space missions. * Define, document, and evolve end-to-end ground software architectures, including services, interfaces, data flows, and integration with space and mission operations segments. * Advise on the integration of new and emerging technologies (cloud, containerization, orchestration, automation, observability) into mission systems. * Lead full lifecycle software development, including: + Requirements analysis and decomposition + Architecture and design + Implementation and code reviews + Unit, integration, and system testing + Deployment and sustainment * Collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams (systems engineering, ground operations, cybersecurity, hardware, and test) to integrate new capabilities into existing systems. * Implement engineering changes and system enhancements in response to evolving mission needs and customer requirements. * Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of software engineers, guiding them through design decisions, best practices, and career growth. * Develop and present technical documentation and briefings to internal leadership and customers. * Drive adoption of modern software practices, tools, and automation (CI/CD, containerization, infrastructure as code) to increase team efficiency and reliability. * Perform technical planning and trade studies, system integration, verification and validation, and analyses of performance, cost, risk, and supportability. * Ensure the logical and systematic conversion of customer or product requirements into total system solutions that balance technical, schedule, and cost constraints.