Software Developer - Middleware Modernization (Mid-Level) - Manassas, VA

Software Developer - Middleware Modernization Job Description:

Gromelski & Associates is seeking a skilled Software Developer to lead the evaluation and migration of a legacy middleware platform to a modern, open-source solution (e.g.,gRPC, NATS, DDS). You will assess performance requirements, explore viable alternatives, prototype candidate technologies, and deliver a data-driven recommendation for production implementation. This role blends deep Java/C/C++ expertise with hands-on Linux system work in a DoD-sensitive environment.

Software Developer - Middleware Modernization Key Responsibilities:

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Responsibility

1

Analyze the existing middleware stack, document performance bottlenecks, latency, throughput, and scalability requirements.

2

Research and shortlist modern alternatives (gRPC, NATS, DDS, etc.), evaluating fit against functional and non-functional criteria.

3

Prototype selected solutions on target hardware, measuring latency, CPU/memory usage, and integration effort.

4

Produce a comprehensive recommendation report, including migration path, risk assessment, and implementation plan.

5

Develop and integrate Java and C/C++ components in a Linux-based laboratory environment, following established DoD processes (installation, recovery, checkout, testing).

6

Collaborate closely with software team leads, systems engineers, and test personnel; communicate findings clearly and promptly.

7

Document all work artifacts (designs, test results, build scripts, deployment guides) in accordance with configuration-management standards.

8

Support off-shift and overtime activities when required to meet critical milestones.

Software Developer - Middleware Modernization Required Qualifications & Skills:

Category

Details

Technical Expertise
• 3+years of professional experience in Java and C/C++ development.
• Strong Linux/Unix system administration and shell-scripting.
• Proven experience with socket programming (TCP/UDP, Unix domain sockets).

Middleware & Messaging
• Hands-on experience with gRPC and Google Protocol Buffers.
• NATS messaging system experience (publish/subscribe, request/reply, streaming, JetStream, clustering).
• Exposure to DDS or similar data-distribution middleware is a plus.

Software Integration
• Laboratory-environment integration, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to follow and execute detailed procedures (installation, recovery, checkout, test).

Development Infrastructure
• Familiarity with modern build tools - Gradle, CMake, and containerization (Docker, OCI).
• Knowledge of common design patterns in Java and C++.

Education & Clearance
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software/Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance (U.S. citizenship required).

Professional Traits
• Self-motivated, task-driven, and able to work independently.
• Strong team player who takes ownership and cultivates collaborative relationships.
• Flexible schedule with willingness to work overtime or off-shift as needed.

Software Developer - Middleware Modernization Highly Desirable (Preferred) Skills:

• Advanced Linux/Unix socket programming and low-level networking.
• Experience designing pub/sub communication patterns and event-driven architectures.
• Familiarity with computer networking protocols (TCP/IP, QoS, multicast).
• Exposure to container orchestration (Kubernetes, Docker Swarm) and CI/CD pipelines.
• Prior work within DoD/Defense or other high-security environments.

Ready to modernize legacy middleware and shape the next generation of mission-critical communications?
Apply today and bring your expertise in Java, C/C++, Linux, gRPC, and NATS to a dynamic, security-focused team!

Job: Full-Time Employee, 40 hours/week

Benefits: We offer a competitive benefit package.
Click here Careers | GAI (e-gai.com) for more information.

Salary Range: $130,000 - $190,000

Start Date: Negotiable

Job Location: Manassas, VA. (Relocation Assistance Available)