Lead Software Engineer

Leidos Holding$87K — $157K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field with 4–8 years of relevant experience OR Master’s degree with 2–6 years of experience
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
  • Strong object-oriented programming experience
  • Proficiency in C and/or C++
  • Experience developing real-time, multi-threaded, high-availability systems
  • Experience with Linux environments (Red Hat)
  • Experience with low-level communications protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, SCTP)
  • Strong understanding of modern software development principles

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, test, and maintain software for real-time, high-availability systems
  • Lead software development activities independently and as part of a collaborative engineering team
  • Analyze complex system requirements and translate them into efficient, maintainable software designs
  • Apply sound software engineering principles to ensure code is reliable, fault tolerant, reusable, and maintainable
  • Lead and mentor junior developers, influencing technical direction and development processes
  • Participate in Agile ceremonies including daily stand-ups, release planning, and sprint reviews
  • Develop, tune, document, and deploy automation scripts across development, test, and production environments
  • Support system integration activities, including hardware and low-level communications interfaces

Benefits

  • Balanced hybrid schedule with 2-3 days in the office per week
  • Opportunity to work on safety-critical systems that support national airspace operations
  • Mentorship opportunities, influencing technical direction and development processes
  • Involvement in Agile development practices and team ceremonies
  • Potential for career advancement within a dynamic engineering team
Full Job Description
Job Description

Software Engineer

UK NASR PDT Evolution Program

Leidos is seeking a Software Engineer to be based in Gaithersburg, MD; Eagan, MN; or Egg Harbor, NJ. This position will support the United Kingdom National Airspace System Replacement Product Delivery Team - UK NASR PDT. This effort delivers enhanced capabilities to replace and modernize the current operational system supporting UK air traffic services.

You will join a dynamic engineering team responsible for building and sustaining real-time, high-availability, safety-critical systems that directly support national airspace operations.

Location

This is a U.S.-based position that offers a balanced hybrid schedule between 2-3 days in the office per week.

What You’ll Do

  • Design, develop, test, and maintain software for real-time, high-availability systems

  • Lead software development activities independently and as part of a collaborative engineering team

  • Analyze complex system requirements and translate them into efficient, maintainable software designs

  • Apply sound software engineering principles to ensure code is reliable, fault tolerant, reusable, and maintainable

  • Lead and mentor junior developers, influencing technical direction and development processes

  • Participate in Agile ceremonies including daily stand-ups, release planning, and sprint reviews

  • Develop, tune, document, and deploy automation scripts across development, test, and production environments

  • Promote code reuse, cross-program collaboration, and sustainable development practices

  • Support system integration activities, including hardware and low-level communications interfaces

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field with 4–8 years of relevant experience

    • OR Master’s degree with 2–6 years of relevant experience

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

  • Strong object-oriented programming experience

  • Proficiency in C and/or C++

  • Experience developing real-time, multi-threaded, high-availability systems

  • Experience with Linux environments (Red Hat), virtual machines, and hypervisors

  • Experience with low-level communications protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, SCTP)

  • Experience with hardware or complex system integration

  • Familiarity with system maintenance and lifecycle concepts

  • Experience with source control and configuration management tools

  • Strong understanding of modern software development principles and best practices

  • Ability to plan and prioritize work effectively in a fast-paced environment

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively

  • US Citizenship Required

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with Ada

  • Experience with test automation frameworks

  • Familiarity with AI/ML tools applied within software development workflows

ATMC

Original Posting:
August 19, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:
Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

Join the Team

Leidos Holding is hiring! Explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Leidos Holding looks for driven, curious, and innovative individuals to join their team. Positions are available across various disciplines and experience levels.

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Prepare for Your Interview

To prepare for an interview at Leidos Holding, candidates should familiarize themselves with the company's missions and values, update their resumes, and be ready to discuss how their background and skills align with the position they are applying for.

Networking and Career Advancement

Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

Explore Leidos Holding Jobs and Careers

Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

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