Software Engineer

McLean, VA

This is a U.S. based position. All of the programs we support require U.S. citizenship to be eligible for employment. All work must be conducted within the continental U.S.

Who we are:

Raft (https://TeamRaft.com) is a customer-obsessed non-traditional small business with a purposeful focus on Distributed Data Systems, Platforms at Scale, and Complex Application Development, with headquarters in McLean, VA. Our range of clients includes innovative federal and public agencies leveraging design thinking, cutting-edge tech stack, and cloud-native ecosystem. We build digital solutions that impact the lives of millions of Americans.

We’re looking for an experienced Software Engineers to support our customers and join our passionate team of high-impact problem solvers.

About the role:

This is an exciting opportunity for a Software Engineer with experience in AI/ML prototyping and modern software architectures. You will be responsible for designing and developing software solutions for AI-based capabilities, maintaining existing applications, and optimizing performance. Typical duties include developing front-end and back-end components, implementing CI/CD pipelines, collaborating with data scientists and UX designers, and ensuring compliance with security and performance standards. This role is contingent on contract award.

What we are looking for:

  • 5-7 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree, or 3+ years of experience with a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
  • Proficiency in programming languages including Python, JavaScript, and at least one additional language (Java preferred).
  • Experience with front-end frameworks like React or Vue and backend frameworks like Node.js, Spring, Spring Boot, Django, Flask, etc.
  • Hands-on experience with Agile software development methodologies and tools.
  • Strong DevSecOps experience, including CI/CD tooling (Git runners, code scanning tools).
  • Containerization experience with Kubernetes for deploying scalable solutions.
  • Familiarity with Object Relational Mapping (ORM) frameworks such as SQLAlchemy and databases like PostgreSQL.
  • Knowledge of ElasticSearch/OpenSearch and Neo4J for data persistence.
  • Deep understanding of modern software architectures, including microservices and front-end frameworks.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to engage with cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to analyze requirements, recommend alternative approaches, and deliver within tight deadlines.
  • Highly preferred: DoDD 8140 IAT Level III certification.

Major Duties/Tasks:

  • Design and develop AI-based software architectures, APIs, frameworks, and libraries.
  • Develop front-end and back-end components for software prototypes and reusable tooling.
  • Maintain and improve existing applications, performing bug fixes, security updates, and capability enhancements.
  • Develop common libraries and tools to enhance efficiency across multiple development teams.
  • Work closely with clients and product owners to deliver AI-enabled software solutions.
  • Formulate strategies for rapid prototyping of AI capabilities, including Generative AI.
  • Collaborate with data scientists, UX designers, and cognitive scientists to design scalable AI solutions.
  • Document software requirements, specifications, and reference architectures while reviewing technical documentation from other teams.
  • Optimize software architectures to achieve performance targets, including developing profiling tools and capturing execution metrics.
  • Stay up to date with AI system architectures, DevSecOps best practices, and modern software design patterns.
  • Ensure compliance with security and performance standards while documenting best practices.

Clearance Requirements:

  • Active TS security clearance with SCI eligibility

Salary Range:

  • $100,000 - $160,000 
  • The determination of compensation is predicated upon a candidate's comprehensive experience, demonstrated skill, and proven abilities

Work Type: 

  • McLean, VA
  • May require up to 10% travel

What we will offer you:

  • Highly competitive salary
  • Fully covered healthcare, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) and company match
  • Take as you need PTO + 11 paid holidays
  • Education & training benefits
  • Annual budget for your tech/gadgets needs
  • Remote, hybrid, and flexible work options
  • Team off-site in fun places!
  • Generous Referral Bonuses
  • And More!

Our Vision Statement: 

We bridge the gap between humans and data through radical transparency and our obsession with the mission. 

Our Customer Obsession: 

We will approach every deliverable like it's a product. We will adopt a customer-obsessed mentality. As we grow, and our footprint becomes larger, teams and employees will treat each other not only as teammates but customers. We must live the customer-obsessed mindset, always. This will help us scale and it will translate to the interactions that our Rafters have with their clients and other product teams that they integrate with. Our culture will enable our success and set us apart from other companies.

How do we get there? 

Public-sector modernization is critical for us to live in a better world. We, at Raft, want to innovate and solve complex problems. And, if we are successful, our generation and the ones that follow us will live in a delightful, efficient, and accessible world where out-of-box thinking, and collaboration is a norm. 

Raft’s core philosophy is Ubuntu: I Am, Because We are. We support our “nadi” by elevating the other Rafters. We work as a hyper collaborative team where each team member brings a unique perspective, adding value that did not exist before. People make Raft special. We celebrate each other and our cognitive and cultural diversity. We are devoted to our practice of innovation and collaboration. 

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

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