Leidos is seeking a Lead Software Engineer to support the Integrated Threat Warning Laboratory (ITWL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. In this role, you will serve as the primary developer for the software that controls the Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) sensor testing environment—advancing the lab’s capabilities to evaluate next-generation missile and laser warning systems critical to U.S. defense.
This is a hands-on, on-site role that combines deep technical expertise with close collaboration among government and engineering teams supporting key Department of Defense (DoD) initiatives.
Why Join Leidos
At Leidos, you’ll work at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and national defense, supporting systems that protect those who protect us. You’ll have the opportunity to shape real-world capabilities, collaborate with domain experts, and contribute to solutions that make an impact every day.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain, enhance, and modernize software for the ITWL’s primary hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) system for electro-optical sensor evaluation.
- Apply modern C++ and object-oriented design principles to evolve system architecture.
- Design and develop scientific, control, and test software in C++ and C.
- Implement TCP/IP Winsocket client/server communication for Ethernet-based control systems.
- Develop comprehensive software documentation, conduct testing, and ensure code quality and reliability.
- Collaborate with technical leads, engineers, and customers to refine requirements and deliver project milestones.
- Integrate and troubleshoot hardware APIs and vendor device interfaces.
- Support sensor testing, data acquisition, and R&D through custom software solutions.
- Contribute to a small, focused development team that values innovation, precision, and technical excellence.
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related software engineering field and 8+ years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree with 6+ years of experience.
- Minimum 5 years of hands-on software development experience, including:
- Proficiency in C++ and object-oriented programming (inheritance, polymorphism).
- Experience with C for hardware and API integration.
- Understanding of TCP/IP networking and socket-based communication.
- Familiarity with a C++ integrated development environment such as Embarcadero C++ Builder or Microsoft Visual Studio.
- Strong problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
- U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a DoD Secret clearance.
- Must be willing and able to work 100% on-site at Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB.
Desired Qualifications
- Active DoD Secret clearance.
- Experience with Matlab® or Python for scientific or data-driven programming.
- Understanding of the software development lifecycle (design, implementation, testing).
- Familiarity with R&D environments, test laboratories, or hardware-in-the-loop systems.
- Knowledge of electro-optical systems.
Please Note: The anticipated salary range and budget for this position is $140,000 to $155,000, determined by your experience, skills, abilities, internal equity, etc. The posted salary range below is intended to show the broad range but the actual salary range and budget for this position is targeted at $140,000- $155,000 annually
LInC
We’re not looking for perfectly polished resumes or perfect fits. We’re looking for people who break limits, ask hard questions, and don’t wait to be told what’s next. At Leidos, we’re not following the roadmap — we’re redrawing it.
Original Posting:November 6, 2025For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
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.
Top Skills
What We Do
We Are Leidos
For 50 years we have been tackling some of the biggest problems that face our nation and our world.
OUR MISSION
Through our culture of innovation and history of performance, we develop deep customer trust built on integrity and create enduring solutions that improve our world. Leidos is a science and technology solutions leader working to address some of the world’s toughest challenges in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and healthcare markets. The company’s 43,000 employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Reston, Va., Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $11.09 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2020.
Leidos was cited for the meaningful work employees perform that is challenging, impactful, and aligned with our customers’ missions as reasons professionals want to work and stay at our company. Leidos has also been named to lists including Forbes’ Best Employers for Diversity, Forbes’ America’s Best Employers for Women, Military Times Best for Vets Employers, and Ethisphere Institute’s World's Most Ethical Companies®.
Employees enjoy career enrichment opportunities available through mobility and development and experience rewarding relationships with supportive supervisors and talented colleagues and customers. Employees appreciate our flexible work environment, allowing for and encouraging a true work-life balance. Our professionals are also excited about our Employee Resource Groups, like the newly launched Collaborative Outreach with Remote and Embedded Employees (CORE), which strives to create an environment where every employee, regardless of location, feels fully engaged as a valued employee of Leidos.
Your most important work is ahead.
