Job Title: Cyber Software Engineer
Job Description
The Cyber Software Engineer designs and delivers secure, high-performance cyber software solutions that support mission-critical Department of Defense (DoD) systems. The role focuses on building scalable, containerized microservices in Linux-based environments with an emphasis on networking, performance optimization, and cyber analysis. You will work across the full software development lifecycle, from design and implementation to deployment and optimization in modern DevSecOps pipelines.
Responsibilities
Design, develop, and maintain secure software applications using C++ and/or Java.
Build and optimize high-performance systems by applying parallelization and performance optimization techniques.
Develop and deploy containerized applications within Linux-based environments.
Architect and implement scalable microservices-based solutions.
Integrate and manage services within Kubernetes environments to ensure reliable orchestration and deployment.
Analyze network traffic and support cyber capabilities such as deep packet inspection, network reconnaissance, and related analysis.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support the full software lifecycle, from initial development through deployment and sustainment.
Debug, troubleshoot, and enhance applications directly within container orchestration environments such as Kubernetes.
Apply networking fundamentals to design and maintain robust, secure, and efficient networked applications.
Contribute to mission-driven DoD cyber programs by developing secure, resilient software solutions aligned with operational needs.
Essential Skills
Ability to obtain a DoD Interim Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required for clearance eligibility).
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
Professional experience developing software in C++ and/or Java.
Experience with parallelization and performance optimization for high-performance systems.
Strong understanding of networking fundamentals and their application in software solutions.
Experience developing containerized applications, including building, packaging, and deploying containers.
Hands-on experience running and managing containers on Linux distributions.
Understanding of microservices architectures and how to design and implement microservices-based solutions.
Experience working in Linux-based development environments.
Ability to work effectively across the full software development lifecycle, from design through deployment.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with CI/CD pipeline design and implementation to support automated build, test, and deployment.
Familiarity with tools and frameworks for managing Kubernetes application lifecycles.
Direct experience developing and debugging applications on Kubernetes clusters, beyond managed platforms such as AWS or OpenShift.
Knowledge of network reconnaissance techniques and their implications for cyber defense and analysis.
Experience with network traffic analysis and deep packet inspection.
Familiarity with tools and libraries such as Boost Asio, gRPC, and Pcap++.
Analyzing and securing embedded systems and devices.
Experience working within Agile and DevSecOps workflows.
Strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively in cross-functional, mission-focused teams.
Work Environment
The role operates within Linux-based development ecosystems, using modern containerized infrastructure built on technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes. You will work in an Agile, DevSecOps-oriented environment that emphasizes continuous integration, continuous delivery, and secure development practices. The position supports mission-driven DoD cyber programs, where teams focus on delivering resilient, secure, and high-performance software solutions. Work involves close collaboration with engineers and cyber professionals, leveraging container orchestration platforms, microservices architectures, and advanced networking and cyber analysis tools.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Manassas, VA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $65.00 - $85.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Manassas,VA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 30, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
