Backend Software Engineer

The Backend Software Engineer role at Leidos is grounded in designing, building, and maintaining scalable backend services and REST APIs for a high-visibility data analytics application. This onsite position in Alexandria, VA emphasizes Java or Python development within Linux environments and close collaboration with mission stakeholders.

Compensation

Salary: USD 107,900 - 195,050 per year

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, test, and maintain backend services using Java or Python.
• Develop RESTful APIs to enable core application features and integrations with external systems.
• Apply solid object oriented design principles to build scalable, maintainable architectures.
• Write and optimize SQL queries to support functionality and performance across databases.
• Collaborate with external teams to understand data sources, interfaces, and access patterns, translating requirements into backend integrations.
• Participate in technical design discussions and influence backend architecture decisions.
• Work within Linux-based environments to develop, deploy, and troubleshoot applications.
• Diagnose and resolve issues spanning application and database layers.
• Contribute to code reviews and uphold engineering standards and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field with 8 to 12 years of experience, or a Master’s degree with 6 to 10 years of experience.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Active TS/SCI clearance with the ability to pass a polygraph.
• Extensive experience building backend applications in Java or Python.
• Proven track record designing and building RESTful APIs for scalable functionality.
• Solid SQL experience, including writing and optimizing queries for relational databases.
• Comfortable working in Linux-based environments.
• Ability to work independently and deliver solutions for moderately to highly complex technical challenges.

Technologies

• Java
• Python
• Spring Boot
• Django
• PostGIS
• Apache Airflow
• GitLab
• Jenkins
• Docker
• OpenShift
• Kubernetes
• AWS
• Azure
• Linux
• SQL

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Health and wellness programs
• Income protection
• Paid leave
• Retirement benefits

Why this role stands out

• High impact: Your work supports a widely used application that informs real time decisions.
• High visibility: Collaborate directly with engineering teams and mission stakeholders.
• Career growth: Deepen expertise in backend architecture, API design, and scalable systems.
• Challenging work: Build and optimize complex backend features.