Software Engineer

Vigilant Cyber Systems, Inc. (VCS)

Location: Primarily Remote (some travel to customer sites and our Mount Airy, NC office)

Salary Range: $80,000 – $135,000

About Vigilant Cyber Systems (VCS)

Vigilant Cyber Systems (VCS) is a fast-growing R&D company advancing cyber-physical security for the U.S. Department of Defense. We develop innovative tools, testing methods, and AI-enabled systems that help protect mission-critical defense platforms across the DoD and defense industrial base.

Our programs range from AI-enabled sensor fusion and real-time data analysis to automated DevSecOps pipelines and cyber-physical simulation environments.

Position Overview

VCS is seeking a talented Software Engineer to support the development of our ongoing SBIR research programs. In this role, you will design, build, and enhance software systems that integrate artificial intelligence, machine learning, and modern software engineering practices to support Department of Defense (DoD) projects.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge R&D, collaborate with senior engineers and researchers, and play a key role in transitioning emerging technologies into operational capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain software solutions for DoD research and development efforts.
• Apply AI and ML concepts to data analysis, modeling, and workflow automation.
• Develop, test, and adapt software applications for DoD and cyber-physical environments.
• Integrate data storage, visualization, and analytical tools into cohesive systems.
• Use containerization tools (Docker, Docker Compose) to manage build and deployment.
• Follow Agile development practices with Git-based workflows and CI/CD integration.
• Ensure security, scalability, and maintainability of developed systems.

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related STEM field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 4+ years of experience as a Software Engineer in applied R&D or software product development.

Desired Technical Experience

Experience in many, but not necessarily all, of the following areas is preferred:

• Programming Languages: Scala, Python, or Rust
• AI & LLM Tools: Familiarity with large language models and their use in data processing, text generation, or automation
• Machine Learning: Understanding of ML workflows — training, validation, and evaluation
• Databases: SQLite, PostgreSQL, or MySQL — schema design, queries, and data integrity
• Logging & Metrics: ELK (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana) or similar visualization tools
• Containerization: Docker and Docker Compose
• Version Control & CI/CD: Git workflows, branching, merging, and pipeline automation
• Frontend Development: Experience with ScalaFX, JavaFX, React, or comparable frameworks
• Secure Communication & Authentication: Keycloak, Vault, or CAC/PIV identity systems

Required Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship (required)
• Ability to obtain a DoD Security Clearance
• Ability to work independently and within a small, fast-paced R&D team

Preferred Qualifications

• Balanced experience with both desktop and web-based front-end development
• Experience training and deploying lightweight ML models for real-time applications
• Familiarity with DoD systems or critical infrastructure environments

Why VCS

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
• Flexible, primarily remote work environment
• Opportunity to contribute to impactful DoD R&D programs
• Collaborative, mission-driven engineering culture

Timeline: Immediate

Citizenship Requirement: U.S. Citizens only