Software Engineer, C++/Java
Location: Columbia, Maryland
Position Overview
We are seeking junior and mid-level Software Engineers to support Department of the Navy software development and modernization programs. This position provides the opportunity to contribute to mission-critical naval defense systems while working in a collaborative, agile engineering environment.
Engineers may support either the modernization and sustainment of an established software platform or the development of a newer system. Program placement will be determined based on the candidate's technical background , experience level, and interview performance.
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop, integrate, test, and maintain software solutions for a complex naval display subsystem
Develop object-oriented applications using C++ and Java in a Linux environment
Analyze, troubleshoot, debug, and modernize legacy software
Support new software development and system modernization initiatives
Prepare software engineering design documentation and other technical materials
Participate in peer reviews, code reviews, and engineering review meetings
Present technical information to internal stakeholders and government customers, as appropriate
Work independently while contributing effectively within a small engineering team
Travel occasionally to customer sites to investigate issues, test solutions, or integrate software fixes
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field
1 to 6 or more years of relevant software engineering experience
Experience developing software with C++
Experience with Java and/or Python
Familiarity with object-oriented programming concepts
Experience working in a Linux development environment
Ability to prepare clear technical documentation
Ability to work effectively in an agile software development environment
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
U.S. citizenship
Active Department of Defense Secret clearance
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with multiple programming languages, including:
C++
Java
Python
Ruby
Experience debugging or modernizing legacy software
Experience supporting defense, Navy, or other government programs
Familiarity with software integration, automated testing, and configuration management tools
Experience presenting technical material through a formal peer review process
For senior -level candidates, experience with ground-up software development and system architecture
Compensation
1 to 3 years of relevant experience: $80,000 to $90,000
4 to 5 years of relevant experience: $95,000 to $105,000
6 or more years of relevant experience: $125,000 to $130,000
Why Join the Team?
This role offers the opportunity to work directly on a mission-critical naval combat system and contribute to the modernization and sustainment of a complex display subsystem. Engineers gain hands-on experience with C++, Java, Python, and Linux while solving challenging software problems that directly support national defense.
The smaller team environment provides increased technical ownership, program visibility, and direct involvement in engineering decisions. Team members have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact rather than working on only a small portion of a larger development effort.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Columbia, MD.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $38.46 - $62.50/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 Columbia,MD.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 11, 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.
