Next Gen OPIR GEO is providing a new generation of IR monitoring satellites with enhanced capabilities and survivability in an increasingly hostile space environment. We are working with the US Space Force and other partners to deliver new vehicles at an unprecedented rate – a top USSF priority.
We are a small, close-knit team of agile developers looking to add more members to our group. We are a highly collaborative, enthusiastic bunch who are happy to make space for new perspectives and ideas. With a small-team environment, we strive to make individuals feel recognized, provide opportunities for growth, stretch assignments, and ensure that each developer can further their career in a way that they want. As a member of our high-performing team you must be passionate about your trade, focused on mission system quality, and supportive of timely delivery of features and capabilities. Primary technologies include Java, Spring Boot, Angular, Docker, AMQ, Postgres, Kubernetes, Automated Cypress Tests, and more.
The Level 4 Engineer is a senior engineer who will shape the architecture and roadmap for the NGG OPIR ground‑segment. You will drive large‑scale, high‑impact software initiatives, champion secure‑by‑design practices, and mentor a distributed engineering team. This role requires a blend of deep technical expertise, strategic thinking, and strong stakeholder influence.
Principal Responsibilities:
- Evolve the micro‑services architecture (Java, Spring Boot, Kubernetes, event‑driven design).
- Be part of design reviews, set coding standards, and enforce secure‑by‑design practices (Secret, TS/SCI eligibility).
- Advance the CI/CD strategy, including automated testing and blue‑green deployments.
- Mentor and develop senior and mid‑level engineers; drive technical career growth and culture.
- Be part of the team in cross‑program architectural forums and with external partners.
- Become a technical go to person to solve complex problems and push technical solutions.
- U.S. citizen; must be able to obtain Secret clearance (TS/SCI eligibility required).
- M.S. (or Ph.D.) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline or ≥ 8 years of progressively responsible software engineering experience.
- Demonstrated proficiency of Java, Python, C++, or modern frontend frameworks (Angular/React).
- Extensive experience building and operating in a distributed micro‑service architecture on OpenShift at scale (≥ 50 services).
- Proven track record with SQL performance tuning, message broker systems, and observability (OpenShift).
- Strong background in secure software development.
- Exceptional communication and influencing skills; ability to translate complex technical concepts to executive leadership and nontechnical stakeholders.
Leadership of multidisciplinary engineering teams.
Deep experience with AI pipelines and model deployment.
Prior involvement in Space domain or defense‑mission software programs.
Experience with Cypress or other automated testing framework
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $135700.00 - $251900.00
At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow—both professionally and personally.
The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.
- Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
- For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
Skills Required
- U.S. citizenship
- Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance
- TS/SCI eligibility
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline, or at least 8 years of progressively responsible software engineering experience
- Proficiency in Java, Python, C++, or modern frontend frameworks such as Angular or React
- Extensive experience building and operating distributed microservice architectures on OpenShift at scale, involving at least 50 services
- Experience with SQL performance tuning, message broker systems, and observability on OpenShift
- Strong background in secure software development
- Exceptional communication and influencing skills with technical and nontechnical stakeholders
- Leadership of multidisciplinary engineering teams
- Deep experience with AI pipelines and model deployment
- Experience in the space domain or defense-mission software programs
- Experience with Cypress or another automated testing framework
Lockheed Martin Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Lockheed Martin and has not been reviewed or approved by Lockheed Martin.
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Retirement Support — Retirement benefits are described as a standout element, with a strong 401(k) program and options like an employee stock purchase plan. Feedback suggests these features meaningfully enhance total compensation and long‑term financial security.
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare coverage is portrayed as comprehensive from day one, with multiple plan options, mental health resources, and virtual care. Wellness supports such as on‑site services and preventive programs are also highlighted.
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Flexible Benefits — Work arrangements often include compressed schedules and telework, contributing to a favorable work‑life balance. Feedback suggests this flexibility is a key reason many view the overall package positively.
Lockheed Martin Insights
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Customer Focus, Innovation and Purpose are Built Into Everything We Do. Lockheed Martin. Your Mission is Ours ™. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.
