Job Description

The Virginia Tech National Security Institute's (VTNSI) Mission System Division (MSD) is looking for entry-level software engineers to join our team.

With a presence in both Blacksburg and Washington D.C. metro areas, VTNSI serves dual missions of (1) performing cutting edge research and development for externally sponsored Department of Defense and Intelligence Community programs and (2) cultivating the next generation of national security workforce and thought leaders by engaging students in curricular, extracurricular, and research and development opportunities. As one of the fastest growing thematic research institutes at Virginia Tech, sponsors and collaborators benefit from VTNSI through both highly experienced student talent pipelines and senior technical leadership that addresses some of our nation's greatest national security challenges and threats.
Within the Institute, motivated applicants are sought to join the Research Faculty to support growth in Mission Systems Division (MSD). Candidates can expect a highly competitive salary and benefits in a university setting. This pooled position is focused on individuals with interest in any of the following key technology areas to support a growing portfolio of programs:
* Mission Engineering
* Space Domain Awareness
* Maritime Remote Sensing
* Hypersonics
* Robotics and autonomy
* Development and Integration of Multidomain Sensor Platforms
* High Performance Computing and Multiphysics Modeling
To help achieve the overarching aspirations of VTNSI, and the specific technical goals of the MSD, we are looking for applicants with expertise in software development and an interest in working on team-based development projects. This position will work in support of the division's research efforts. The career path for this position could lead into research oriented or technical oriented position and still support the research function.

General activities of this position will consist of:
* Software development in support of MSD research programs
* Learn about the underlying technical concepts of assigned programs
* Participation in weekly program meetings and periodic sponsor meetings (requiring oral and/or written updates)
* Thorough test, evaluation, and documentation of developed software
* (As desired) Opportunities to participate in research paper writing and business development proposal writing

Required Qualifications

- An earned Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related discipline to the position summary
- Proficiency in software development and familiarity with best coding practices
- Demonstrated ability and willingness to work as a member of a development team in executing sponsored projects
- Demonstrated ability and willingness to document and define test cases for developed software
- Given the nature of the research conducted and requirements from the federal sponsor, candidates must be a U.S. citizen

Preferred Qualifications

One or more of the following:

- FPGA Development
- Previous professional work experience in software development
- Strong written and/or verbal communication skills
- Proficiency in one or more of the following programming languages: C, C++, Python
- Proficiency in Linux/Docker
- Familiarity with version control tools (e.g., GIT)
- Strong troubleshooting and debugging skills
- Familiarity with Continuous Integration/Continuous Development (CI/CD) processes for code test and evaluation
- Familiarity with GPU-based code development (e.g., CUDA, TensorFlow, etc.)
- Familiarity with AI/ML development toolkits such as PyTorch, Keras, etc.
- U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

80,000 - 110,000 depending on experience

Review Date

11/27/2023

Additional Information

Due to the nature of our work, all applicants must be US citizens.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight , a , a college, , and . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous and . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.