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Cloud Software Engineer - Defense Systems

Sterling, Virginia

Title: Cloud Software Engineer - Defense Systems  
Company: Heven AeroTech
Location: Hybrid in Sterling, Virginia  
FLSA: Exempt

At Heven AeroTech, we build more than hydrogen-powered drone systems—we build teams that solve meaningful, real-world problems. Our culture is grounded in trust, accountability, and a shared drive for excellence. We look for people who are hungry, humble, and smart: those who take initiative, continuously improve, collaborate without ego, and apply sound judgment in complex environments. Here, your ideas matter, your voice is heard, and your growth is supported.

Role Overview

We’re seeking an experienced Cloud Software Engineer to help build the scalable, secure cloud backbone powering our AI-enabled drone platforms. This role sits at the intersection of cloud infrastructure, data engineering, and applied AI—supporting everything from edge-deployed flight systems to enterprise applications and internal tooling.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and implement cloud data infrastructure (BigQuery, GCS, or equivalent), including schema design, governance, and pipeline automation
  • Build and maintain CI/CD pipelines, including for resource-constrained or air-gapped environments
  • Develop and integrate AI/ML pipelines (e.g., Vertex AI, MLflow) and data versioning systems
  • Write clean, maintainable, well-documented code and contribute to code reviews and engineering best practices
  • Develop software aligned with DoD security requirements (RMF, STIG, SSDLC practices)
  • Support ATO processes and implement required security controls
  • Ensure compliance with ITAR and export control regulations
  • Participate in security reviews, vulnerability assessments, and testing
  • Operate effectively in classified or restricted environments as needed
  • Develop and execute unit, integration, and system-level tests
  • Support HIL/SIL testing and troubleshoot complex system issues across lab and field environments
  • Partner with AI, hardware, autonomy, and systems teams to define and deliver solutions
  • Contribute to architecture decisions and technical roadmap planning
  • Mentor junior engineers and promote engineering excellence
  • Engage with government stakeholders to translate mission needs into technical solutions
  • Support proposal efforts and technical solution design

Required Qualifications:

  • 8+ years of cloud software engineering experience (4+ supporting defense, intelligence, or government programs)
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
  • Proficiency in Python, Java, C++, Go, or Rust (multi-language experience preferred)
  • Experience deploying full-stack and data solutions in cloud environments (GCP strongly preferred)
  • Expertise in containerization and orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes, K3s, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of secure software development and DoD cybersecurity frameworks
  • Experience with ITAR-controlled or export-regulated programs
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance (active preferred)
  • A hungry mindset: you take ownership, push for better solutions, and thrive in fast-moving environments
  • A humble approach: you collaborate effectively, value team success, and remain open to learning
  • A smart perspective: you combine technical depth with strong judgment and communication

Preferred

  • Experience with UAS, autonomous systems, or aerospace
  • Background in DoD rapid acquisition, OTAs, or SBIR programs
  • MLOps experience and deploying ML models at the edge
  • Experience with air-gapped CI/CD environments
  • Advanced degree in a related field

Certifications:

Candidates must hold the following Google Cloud certifications or demonstrate a commitment to obtaining any missing certifications within an agreed timeframe following hire. Heven AeroTech will support certification attainment through training resources and exam sponsorship.

Required – Currently Held or Willing to Obtain:

  • Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer Certification
  • Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect Certification
  • Google Cloud Professional Cloud Database Engineer Certification
  • Google Cloud Professional Cloud Developer Certification
  • Google Cloud Professional Cloud DevOps Engineer Certification
  • Google Cloud Professional Cloud Network Engineer Certification
  • Google Cloud Professional Cloud Security Engineer Certification
  • Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer Certification
  • Google Cloud Professional Machine Learning Engineer Certification
  • Google Cloud SecOps Technical Credential
  • Google Cloud Maps Technical Fundamentals Credential

Physical Requirements: 

  • Ability to work at a computer workstation for extended periods, including frequent use of a keyboard, mouse, and multiple monitors
  • Ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods during the workday
  • Ability to occasionally move about office, lab, or test environments to access equipment, collaborate with team members, or support testing activities
  • Ability to lift and carry items up to 25 lbs on an occasional basis (e.g., computer equipment, test hardware)
  • Visual acuity sufficient to read screens, analyze data, and review detailed technical information
  • Manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment and handle small electronic components when needed
  • Ability to travel occasionally and work in different environments, including office, lab, or field settings
  • Ability to communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders in person and via virtual tools

Benefits Overview: 
Heven AeroTech offers a competitive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and overall well-being of our employees and their families. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off/sick, and additional protections such as critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident coverage, and short- and long-term disability.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: 
Heven AeroTech is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

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