Software Engineer (R&D / AI & Data Platforms)
Leidos – Analysis Solutions Business Area
Build the future of data, AI, and mission-critical software.
Leidos is seeking a talented Software Engineer to help lead the development of next-generation software capabilities within our dynamic research and development environment. In this role, you’ll design and deliver innovative Knowledge Management solutions that power data-driven decision-making across critical national security missions.
You’ll work at the intersection of data engineering, AI, and full-stack development, building scalable platforms that transform complex data into actionable insights.
What You’ll Do
Design and develop Knowledge Management systems, including data pipelines, ontologies, and AI-enabled platforms
Build modern web applications (front-end and back-end) to support search, discovery, and analysis
Develop and maintain ETL pipelines and data lake architectures
Integrate AI/ML capabilities, including Generative AI and LLM APIs
Collaborate across teams to gather requirements and deliver scalable, mission-focused solutions
Support data analysis, modeling, simulation, and visualization efforts
Ensure software quality through testing, validation, and performance optimization
Deploy solutions in secure, cloud-based, and containerized environments
What You Bring
Experience in software development and system design, with a strong foundation in computer science principles
Proficiency in one or more programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, R, or JavaScript/TypeScript
Experience building applications using React or Angular, and back-end frameworks such as FastAPI
Familiarity with SQL and NoSQL databases
Working knowledge of cloud platforms (preferably AWS) and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker)
Experience with data pipelines, ETL processes, and data management systems
Exposure to Generative AI / LLM APIs (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic, Bedrock)
Understanding of software testing frameworks (e.g., pytest, Playwright, Jest)
Ability to work in Linux/Unix and Windows environments
Strong communication skills and experience collaborating with technical and non-technical stakeholders
Basic Qualifications
TS/SCI w/Polygraph
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, Systems Engineering, or a related field
Minimum of 1+ years of relevant experience
Interest in supporting Intelligence Community and DoD missions
U.S. Citizenship required
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree (MS) in a relevant technical field
Experience with AI/ML, LLMs, and AWS Bedrock
Familiarity with DTRA R&D or Combatant Command environments
Experience integrating COTS/GOTS tools, including 3D modeling, simulation, or visualization platforms
What Sets You Apart
Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills
Comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments
Able to independently research and implement innovative solutions
Effective collaborator who thrives both independently and on teams
Strong technical writing and presentation skills
Why Leidos?
At Leidos, your work directly supports critical national security missions. You’ll join a collaborative, forward-thinking team where innovation is encouraged and your contributions make a real impact.
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:June 24, 2026For 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.
Skills Required
- TS/SCI w/Polygraph
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Systems Engineering, or related field
- Minimum of 1+ years of relevant experience
- Experience in software development and system design
- Proficiency in one or more programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, R, or JavaScript/TypeScript
- Experience building applications using React or Angular and back-end frameworks such as FastAPI
- Familiarity with SQL and NoSQL databases
- Working knowledge of cloud platforms (preferably AWS) and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker)
- Experience with data pipelines, ETL processes, and data management systems
- Exposure to Generative AI / LLM APIs (e.g., OpenAI, Anthropic, Bedrock)
- Understanding of software testing frameworks (e.g., pytest, Playwright, Jest)
- Ability to work in Linux/Unix and Windows environments
- Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Interest in supporting Intelligence Community and DoD missions
- Advanced degree (MS) in a relevant technical field
- Experience with AI/ML, LLMs, and AWS Bedrock
- Familiarity with DTRA R&D or Combatant Command environments
- Experience integrating COTS/GOTS tools, including 3D modeling, simulation, or visualization platforms
Leidos Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Leidos and has not been reviewed or approved by Leidos.
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare coverage is described as comprehensive, with multiple plan options, low office-visit copays in some plans, and access to mental health and wellness support tools. The availability of HSA/FSA options and employer contributions is positioned as a meaningful part of the total package.
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Retirement Support — Retirement benefits are framed as a strong component of total rewards, highlighted by a 401(k) match and immediate vesting in the standard package. The Employee Stock Purchase Plan is also presented as an additional long-term wealth-building feature.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Wellbeing and lifestyle supports extend beyond core insurance, including wellness programs, fitness-related stipends, and assistance resources. Work flexibility and related perks are also included as part of the broader rewards experience.
Leidos Insights
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.
