Software Engineer, Systems

Job Description

The Virginia Tech National Security Institute’s (VTNSI) Intelligent Systems Division (ISD) is seeking to fill an entry-level/junior-level software developer position and join our team at the forefront of research and development on artificial intelligence and systems engineering.

With a presence in both Blacksburg and Washington D.C. metro areas, VTNSI serves dual missions of (1) performing cutting edge research and development for externally sponsored Department of Defense and Intelligence Community programs and (2) cultivating the next generation of national security workforce and thought leaders by engaging students in curricular, extracurricular, and research and development opportunities. VTNSI is a fast growing thematic research institute at Virginia Tech, providing value through student talent pipelines and senior technical leadership that addresses national security challenges.

VTNSI’s ISD is a leader in three core capabilities:
1) secure and resilient systems,
2) engineering AI systems, and
3) integrated data and decision systems. To help achieve VTNSI goals, we are looking for applicants with software development expertise and an interest in team-based development projects. An interest in the development of AI-based systems is required; prior knowledge is not required. General activities include:

• Software development tasks across 2-3 programs primarily focused on artificial intelligence
• Learn the underlying technical concepts of assigned programs through independent study and program mentors
• Participation in weekly program meetings and periodic sponsor meetings, providing oral and/or written updates
• Thorough test, evaluation, and documentation of developed software
• Opportunities to participate in research paper writing and business development proposal writing (as desired)

• US citizenship is required due to federal sponsor requirements
• Awarded Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related STEM discipline
• Strong communication skills
• Proficiency in software development and familiarity with best coding practices in one or more of the following languages: C++, Python
• Familiarity with CI/CD processes for code development, test and evaluation
• Familiarity with version control tools (e.g., Git)
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to work as a member of a development team on sponsored projects
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to document and define test cases for developed software
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

• U.S. Security Clearance at the Secret level or higher
• Proficiency in Linux and Docker; familiarity with GPU-based code development (e.g., CUDA)
• Familiarity with AI/ML development concepts such as RL, RAG, MCP, Agentic AI, multi-modal learning
• Familiarity with AI/ML development tools such as PyTorch, Keras, Tensor Flow, Lang Chain
• Proficiency in developing web and/or non-web based graphical user interfaces (GUIs) using frameworks such as React, Vue, Qt

Exempt:
Not eligible for overtime

Restricted

$90,

40 hours per week

02/24/2026

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Due to the nature of the Institute's work, candidates must be US citizens. They must also have the ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Virginia Tech is dedicated to its motto Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). It pushes the boundaries of knowledge with a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes.

Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually. The university…