Mid-Level Backend Software Engineer

Leidos Holding$87K — $157K *
Information Technology
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 experience; or a Master's degree with 2–6 years.
  • US Citizenship required.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with the ability to pass a Polygraph.
  • Professional experience in developing object-oriented applications in Java or Python.
  • Hands-on experience in building and maintaining RESTful APIs.
  • Basic to moderate experience with SQL and relational databases.
  • Working knowledge of Linux-based environments.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, test, and maintain backend application components using Java or Python.
  • Develop and maintain RESTful services for application functionality and integrations.
  • Apply object-oriented design principles for scalable and maintainable systems.
  • Write and modify SQL queries for application functionality and data retrieval.
  • Collaborate with teams to understand data sources and support backend system integration.
  • Develop and troubleshoot applications within Linux-based environments.
  • Implement backend logic for data transformation and system workflows.
  • Identify, debug, and resolve application defects and performance issues.

Benefits

  • High impact work that supports a widely used application for real-time decision-making.
  • Collaborate with diverse engineering teams and mission stakeholders.
  • Opportunities for career growth in backend development and API design.
  • Engagement in challenging work with complex backend features.
Full Job Description

We’re hiring a Backend Software Engineer to support a high‑visibility, data‑driven application used across the organization for analytics and reporting. You’ll help build and maintain core backend services, develop RESTful APIs, support data‑driven functionality, and contribute to ongoing system enhancements within a Linux‑based environment. Your work will directly support system reliability, performance, and data accuracy for mission stakeholders. Our primary development team operates out of Gaithersburg, MD, but we also support onsite engineers in Chantilly, VA, Alexandria, VA; Aurora, CO; St. Louis, MO; and Tucson, AZ, giving top talent multiple paths to join the mission.

And while the requisition requirements may seem standard fare, the position is not; as it will join a high performing team that is changing the way digital engineering and mission operations intelligence is enabled for our customer. 

Why This Role Stands Out

  • High Impact: Your work supports a widely used application that drives real‑time decision‑making

  • High Visibility: Collaborate with engineering teams and mission stakeholders across programs

  • Career Growth: Build deeper expertise in backend development, API design, and scalable systems

  • Challenging Work: Contribute to complex backend features — not routine maintenance tasks

Essential Responsibilities

  • Backend Development: Design, develop, test, and maintain backend application components using Java or Python

  • REST API Development: Develop and maintain RESTful services to support application functionality and system integrations

  • Object-Oriented Programming: Apply object-oriented design principles to build scalable and maintainable systems

  • Database Development: Write and modify SQL queries to support application functionality and data retrieval

  • Data Source Collaboration: Collaborate with internal and external teams to understand data sources, formats, and access methods, and support integration into backend systems

  • Linux Environments: Develop and troubleshoot applications within Linux-based environments

  • Data Processing & Business Logic: Implement backend logic for data transformation, processing, and system workflows

  • Bug Fixing & Enhancements: Identify, debug, and resolve application-level defects and performance issues

  • Code Quality: Follow coding standards, participate in code reviews, and support documentation efforts

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field with 4–8 years of experience; or a Master’s degree with 2–6 years of experience

  • US Citizenship

  • Active TS/SCI with the ability to successfully pass a Polygraph

  • Professional experience developing object‑oriented applications in Java or Python

  • Hands‑on experience building and maintaining RESTful APIs

  • Basic to moderate experience with SQL capability, including writing queries and working with relational databases

  • Working knowledge of Linux‑based environments

  • Ability to work independently on defined tasks within established technical frameworks and deliver reliable results

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with Apache Airflow or similar workflow orchestration technologies

  • Experience with Spring Boot, Django, or similar backend frameworks

  • Exposure to CI/CD pipelines (GitLab, Jenkins, etc.)

  • Familiarity with containerization (Docker, OpenShift)

  • Exposure to cloud environments (AWS or Azure)

  • Experience working in Agile development environments

#NSBA

#MARU

Original Posting:
August 28, 2026

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

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.

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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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