Lead Software Engineer

Leidos Holding$107K — $195K *
Omaha, NE 68104In-Person
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • US Citizen eligible for TS/SCI clearance within 12 months.
  • Bachelor's degree with 8+ years, or Master's with 6+ years of experience.
  • Expertise in backend languages: C, C++, Java, Kotlin, Rust, NodeJS.
  • Adept at self-directed learning and exploring new technologies.
  • Experience with container technologies (Docker, Podman) required.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills essential.
  • Knowledge of software development best practices for critical systems.

Responsibilities

  • Lead software development lifecycle including estimation, design, coding, and testing.
  • Deliver entire components of systems or applications as a technical lead.
  • Collaborate with engineers to design new product developments.
  • Ensure adherence to Agile processes and best practices.
  • Mentor engineers in building complex web-scale systems.
  • Troubleshoot and debug mission-critical software.
  • Manage tasks and document specifications using Agile tools like Jira and Confluence.

Benefits

  • Professional growth opportunities in a dynamic environment.
  • Challenging work with a customer-first approach.
  • Relocation assistance available for motivated individuals.
Full Job Description
The Defense Sector at Leidos is currently seeking a Lead Software Engineer with 8+ years hands-on experience to join our dynamic Agile software teams in Omaha, Nebraska. This opportunity will provide professional growth that is singularly focused on providing world class solutions to our customers in an exciting, collaborative, and inclusive environment. You will be challenged and provided a tremendous opportunity to expand your skills in a customer-facing, fast-paced, and rewarding environment.

As a leader, you will architect, design, build, and enhance highly available and scalable systems used by customers worldwide. You will direct major deliverables of projects through all aspects of the software development lifecycle including scope and work estimation, architecture and design, coding and unit testing. Additionally, you will determine and recommend the best designs based on customer business objectives, timelines and other resource constraints.

All work will be on site in Leidos' facility in Omaha, Nebraska. We can provide relocation assistance for motivated individuals interested in relocation to the location.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • All aspects of the software development lifecycle including scope and work estimation, architecture and design, coding, and automated testing within an Agile and Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery model.
  • Own the delivery of an entire piece of a system or application and serve as a technical lead on medium-to-large, complex projects.
  • Work closely with other engineers to develop the best technical design and approach for new product development.
  • Ensure team adheres to Agile processes and software engineering best practices.
  • As needed, mentor other engineers in the art of building complex, web scale systems.
  • Design, develop, troubleshoot, and debug mission critical software source code using modern software development languages and tools, such as java.
  • Participate in the full software development lifecycle, working within broadly defined parameters.
  • Use Agile development tools such as Jira, Confluence, and Bitbucket/Git to manage work and collaborate with your teams.
  • Support creation and updating of all relevant documentation and specifications for design, development and testing.
  • Identify potential roadblocks and develop around them.
  • Plan and estimate development tasks and work to improve performance metrics.
  • Develop maintainable code that implements user stories.
  • Develop automated tests leveraging a continuous integration process.
  • Work closely with other engineers to develop the best technical design and approach for new product development.
  • Build software solutions where the solution is not always well defined but always considers the customer first.


Basic Qualifications:
  • US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance within 12 months from your start date with Leidos.
  • Bachelor's degree with 8+ years of experience or a Master's degree with 6+ years of experience. Additional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • 8+ years experience in backend development with the combination of any of the following languages: C, C++, Java, Kotlin, Rust, NodeJS.
  • Strong passion for learning new technology and languages, w/ self directed learning.
  • Ability to work with minimal direct oversight, capable of making leaps of intuition for novel solutions. Out of the box thinking is preferred.
  • Strong communication skills, able to form their own positions and advocate for them.
  • Proficient collaborating with others in a tight knit team dynamic.
  • In-depth experience with container technologies (Docker, Podman).
  • Firm grasp of best practices for software targeting critical production systems.
  • Understanding of microservice architectures.
  • Extensive experience with testing code. This would include at a minimum unit and integration testing.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • US Citizen with an active TS/SCI security clearance.
  • Knowledge of algorithms & geospatial related math.
  • Hands on experience with: Rust, Web Assembly (WASM).
  • Understanding of the following technologies: graphics API.
  • Knowledge of mutation testing.
  • Prior experience working with military/USAF
  • Experience with USSTRATCOM Nuclear Planning process.
  • Experience with the use of the Air Vehicle Planning System (APS) for mission planning.


DABAOPP1

Original Posting:
June 16, 2026

Pay Range:
Pay Range $107,900.00 - $195,050.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and 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.

Stay Connected

Stay informed with the latest career tips, industry insights, and company news from Leidos Holding. Subscribe to receive updates and be the first to know about new job opportunities, company developments, and more.

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.

SEARCH LEIDOS HOLDING JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences from Leidos Holding. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await in your professional journey.
Learn more about Leidos Holding

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Leidos Holding

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Lead Software Engineer jobs: