Software Engineer (Python, API)
Role summary
Synertex is seeking a Principal Software Engineer for a defense program focused on threat detection. This hands-on technical leadership role involves architecting and developing large-scale data platforms in classified environments. Responsibilities include designing real-time and batch data processing systems, integrating machine learning, and converting sensor/intelligence data into actionable insights. The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of experience, including 5 years in a lead/architect role, with expertise in big data technologies (Kafka, Spark, Hadoop), real-time streaming, machine learning frameworks, Java, and DevOps practices. An active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph is required. This role offers the chance to work on mission-critical systems impacting national security.
About The Company
Synertex is a leading provider of advanced technological solutions supporting national security and defense initiatives. Specializing in mission-critical systems, Synertex delivers innovative data integration, analytics, and cybersecurity capabilities tailored for government agencies and defense sectors. The company is committed to fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment where cutting-edge technology meets real-world application, ensuring the safety and security of the nation through superior engineering and scientific expertise.
About The Role
Synertex is seeking a highly experienced Principal Software Engineer to join our dedicated team supporting a vital defense program focused on chemical, biological, and emerging threat detection. This role is a strategic, hands-on technical leadership position responsible for architecting, developing, and maintaining large-scale data platforms within classified environments. The ideal candidate will serve as a technical authority, leading the design and implementation of real-time and batch data processing systems, integrating machine learning capabilities, and delivering scalable solutions that convert complex sensor and intelligence data into actionable insights for mission stakeholders. This role offers the opportunity to work on mission-critical systems that directly impact national security, collaborating with government stakeholders and engineering teams to develop innovative solutions in a secure and compliant manner.
Qualifications
- Minimum 10 years of software engineering experience, including at least 5 years in a lead or architect-level role
- Proven hands-on experience designing and operating big data systems in production environments using technologies such as Kafka, Spark, Hadoop (HDFS), HBase, Hive, NiFi, Kudu, Impala, or equivalent
- Experience with real-time data streaming and event-driven architectures (e.g., Kafka Streams, Spark Streaming, KSQL)
- Working knowledge of machine learning frameworks (e.g., Spark MLlib, scikit-learn, TensorFlow) with applied experience solving real-world data problems
- Strong proficiency in Java; additional languages such as Python, Scala, or Ruby are a plus
- Experience with CI/CD pipelines, DevOps practices, and build automation tools (e.g., Jenkins, Maven, Git, Docker)
- Experience operating within classified environments (e.g., SIPRNet, JWICS, or equivalent)
- Active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph is required
- Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills to interface with government stakeholders and cross-functional teams
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and maintain large-scale data pipelines for ingesting, processing, and analyzing high-volume data from multiple sources in real-time and batch modes
- Lead the architecture and implementation of distributed data processing systems utilizing technologies such as Kafka, Spark, Hadoop, and related tools
- Develop and integrate machine learning models for classification, anomaly detection, and predictive analytics to support mission objectives
- Build and manage data storage solutions across relational, NoSQL, and columnar databases including HBase, Hive, Kudu, and Impala
- Deploy and operate applications within classified environments, ensuring strict adherence to security and compliance standards
- Provide technical leadership by setting engineering direction, conducting code reviews, mentoring team members, and making architectural decisions
- Collaborate directly with government stakeholders to translate mission requirements into effective technical solutions
- Troubleshoot production systems, optimize performance, and ensure system reliability, scalability, and availability
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package aligned with experience
- 401(k) plan with 6% company match to support retirement savings
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and 11 paid federal holidays to promote work-life balance
- Employee profit sharing program to reward contributions
- Opportunity to work on mission-critical systems supporting national security initiatives
- Collaborative, AI-first engineering culture focused on innovation, growth, and delivery excellence
Equal Opportunity
Synertex is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We believe that diverse perspectives foster innovation and strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional solutions to our clients.