Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets. Nightwing, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling – to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world. This position is CONTINGENT upon funding, an open position, customer approval, completion of a favorable background investigation, and successful TS/SCI with Polygraph clearance crossover. Clearance Requirement: TS/SCI with polygraph Required Day 1 Job Description: We are currently seeking a Principal Systems Engineer with a passion for hands on work to join our team in Herndon, VA. The Principal Systems Engineer will execute all aspects of the systems engineering discipline, to include software design, build, integration and test, training, deployment and sustainment activities for applications within the portfolio. Additionally, he/she will perform engineering activities such as: developing system test requirements; planning, execution, and analysis in support of system integration and verification. He/She will work with the client to perform analysis necessary to define and document requirements for software releases; work with the Requirements Manager to ensure up to date requirements traceability matrices are in place; assist in the creation/management of a project schedule based on development and release activities. The ideal candidate may also develop Interface Control Documents as requested; provide recommendations to minimize risk when introducing new tools or features. He/She will work with the client to capture and document high-level use cases and requirements, define and document ecosystem software capability components. The SE will also support the creation of a high-level enterprise-wide ecosystem as outlined in the client’s data strategy. This position works closely with executive staff and Technical Directors throughout multiple organizations and high-performing teams to meet mission needs. The SE will assist these personnel with identification and possible mitigation approaches for issues and opportunities as they arise. Required Skills: 13+ years of relevant engineering experience with demonstrated knowledge in systems design, build, integration, and test Conducting system performance analysis and developing technical performance risk mitigation strategies Ability to analyze issues and define solutions Ability to perform trade studies to optimize system performance Capable of generating detailed systems design and configuration management documentation Exhibit agility in addressing impromptu customer requirement changes, or resolving urgent issues Strong proficiency in PHP, Ruby, or another web-focused object-oriented programming language Application architecture and design patterns Experience serving as technical lead throughout the full software development lifecycle, from conception, architecture definition, detailed design, scoping, planning, implementation, testing to documentation, delivery and maintenance is preferred Knowledge of professional software engineering and best practices for the full software development life cycle, including coding standards, code reviews, source control management, build processes, testing, and operations Experience in development of distributed/scalable systems and high-volume transaction applications Desired Skills: Experience working in cross discipline, Agile teams Networking system design in classified environments and systems accreditation Experience with python or other scripting languages Briefing and meeting with various levels of stakeholders Required Education: 13 + years of relevant experience with a Bachelor's degree in a STEM related discipline; or 11 years of relevant experience with a Master's degree in a STEM related discipline Previously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA; Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nation’s most mission impactful initiatives. When we formed Nightwing, we brought a deep set of credentials and an unfaltering commitment to the mission. For over four decades, our team has been providing some of the world’s most technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence support services to the U.S. government on its most important missions. At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we’ll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients. Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team. At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we’ll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients. Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team. Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class. Previously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA; Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nation’s most mission impactful initiatives. When we formed Nightwing, we brought a deep set of credentials and an unfaltering commitment to the mission. For over four decades, our team has been providing some of the world’s most technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence support services to the U.S. government on its most important missions. At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we’ll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients. Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.
