Mission Systems Software Engineer

Build software for UUVs that navigate in the dark, think independently, and must complete the mission. Failure is not an option.

Leidos is seeking a Mission Systems Software Engineer to help build the command, control, and mission-planning software that directs uncrewed underwater vehicles and other maritime autonomous platforms. This role is focused less on low-level vehicle control and more on the systems that plan missions, communicate intent, manage execution, and adapt in real time across contested RF environments.

You’ll support development of software at the intersection of operators, autonomy, and communications. The team builds mission command-and-control (C2) software used to plan, execute, and monitor operations for autonomous systems operating in challenging environments.

In this role, you’ll contribute to software that helps translate operator intent into executable actions, working on components that support mission workflows, communications, and system coordination. You’ll gain experience building software that must perform reliably under real-world conditions, including intermittent and degraded communications.

This team values hands-on execution, continuous learning, and collaboration. You’ll work closely with experienced engineers to build practical skills while contributing to meaningful mission outcomes.

Why This Role Is Different

• You’ll contribute to mission-focused software, not just isolated features.• You’ll gain exposure to real-world system constraints, including communications challenges.• You’ll support software used by real operators in mission environments.• You’ll work alongside experienced engineers and learn how complex systems are built and integrated.• You’ll build a foundation in developing software for distributed and autonomous systems.

If you want to build software that directs autonomous systems rather than just riding along with them, this is the role.

Primary Responsibilities

• Contribute to development of mission command-and-control software, primarily in C++ and Python, supporting planning, execution, and monitoring capabilities.• Implement features and enhancements to mission planning and control tools under guidance from senior engineers.• Assist in developing software that operates across networked and sometimes unreliable communication environments.• Write and maintain code for messaging, data handling, and system coordination components.• Support translation of requirements into software functionality by implementing defined tasks and user stories.• Participate in integration and testing activities, including debugging issues and validating system behavior.• Collaborate with team members across software, systems, and test engineering to support overall system functionality.• Follow established development processes, including code reviews, version control, and Agile workflows.• Document code, features, and development activities to support team knowledge sharing and maintainability.• Continuously build technical skills and apply feedback from peers and mentors.

Basic Qualifications

• Education & Experience – Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).• Security Eligibility – Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret clearance.• Programming Fundamentals – Experience with C++ and Python or similar object-oriented programming language (academic, internship, or professional experience).• Software Development Basics – Understanding of core software engineering concepts such as data structures, algorithms, and version control (e.g., Git).• Operating Systems – Familiarity with developing in Linux or Unix-like environments.• Collaboration Tools – Exposure to development tools such as Git, Jira, or similar platforms.• Communication Skills – Ability to communicate clearly and work effectively in a team environment.• Learning Mindset – Willingness to learn new technologies, tools, and domain concepts in a mission-focused environment.

Must have a current Secret clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Internship or project experience developing software applications or systems.• Exposure to distributed systems, networking concepts, or messaging frameworks.• Familiarity with containerization tools such as Docker.• Experience with additional programming languages (e.g., Java, Rust, C#).• Coursework or projects related to robotics, autonomy, or control systems.• Interest in mission systems, defense applications, or autonomous platforms.

SUBSEAMSS

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:

Pay Range:

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.