Research & Test Engineer

Cross-Functional Developer Research & Test Engineer

Location: Fort Meade, MD | Type: Full-Time | Clearance: TS/SCI CI Poly

Note: These positions are part of an active proposal effort and are contingent upon contract award.

Dark Star Intelligence is seeking Software Engineers to join our surge-ready bench. These versatile professionals flex across development, testing, and research as mission priorities evolve, ensuring priority tasks are never stalled due to resource constraints. Candidates must be adaptable and collaborative to provide mission‑critical support.

• Rapidly integrate into development, testing, or research tasks depending on mission needs.
• Support software development lifecycle from coding through testing and evaluation.
• Assist vulnerability researcher with analysis and secure design.
• Augment Dev Sec Ops  engineers during heavy platform or automation efforts.
• Provide surge labor to priority development efforts without disrupting baseline backlog work.

• Clearance: Active TS/SCI with CI Poly
• Education/
  
  Experience:
  
  3–5 years professional experience in software development, Dev Sec Ops , or vulnerability research
• Training/Certification: Familiarity with Python, C/C++; optional Rust or Go
• Ability to adapt quickly to shifting mission priorities and work collaboratively in cross‑functional teams

• Experience in Agile or Dev Sec Ops ‑driven teams
• Familiarity with vulnerability analysis tools and secure coding practices
• Prior support to MARFORCYBER, USCYBERCOM, or other DoD cyber programs
• CNODP Graduate

Compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, contract requirements, and geographic locality. Dark Star provides a comprehensive benefits package supporting mission success and career growth of full‑time employees.

• Travel: As required by mission
• Work Environment: On‑site, Fort Meade, MD

All applicants must be U.S. citizens and maintain eligibility for a U.S. government security clearance.

Dark Star Intelligence is a Service‑Disabled Veteran‑Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) committed to advancing national security through mission support and tradecraft development. We prioritize both client satisfaction and employee retention, delivering high‑quality, intelligence‑based solutions grounded in our “Core Four” values:

• Humility: We place mission success above personal recognition.
• Passion: We bring enthusiasm and dedication to every challenge.
• Agility: We adapt quickly to evolving operational needs.
• Ownership: We hold ourselves accountable for results and uphold the highest standards of excellence.

We are mission‑driven and results‑oriented, striving to make our country safer through every task we undertake.

At Dark Star Intelligence LLC, we are committed to maintaining a professional and legally compliant work environment where individuals are treated with respect and fairness. We adhere strictly to all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations.

Employment decisions at Dark Star are made solely on the basis of individual qualifications, performance, and business needs. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment—including hiring, compensation, promotion, training, discipline, and termination—on the basis of:
Race or color, Religion, Sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), National origin, Age, Disability, Genetic information, Veteran status. Or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Our EEO standards are embedded in all employment practices to ensure compliance, fairness, and accountability. We enforce a zero‑tolerance policy for unlawful discrimination or harassment and encourage employees to report concerns without fear of retaliation.

EEO Flyer: shorturl.at/abpNX

Dark Star Intelligence provides a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to support the health, financial stability, and personal well‑being of our team members.

• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Income Protection: Life insurance, short‑term disability, and long‑term disability
• Retirement Planning: 401(k) plan with employer contributions
• Work‑Life Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and legal services
• Paid Leave: Generous PTO, 11 paid federal holidays, and one floating holiday

• Legal & Identity Protection: Legal Shield and IDShield
• Additional Insurance:
  Whole life, accident, and critical care coverage

We believe in recognizing and supporting the professionals who make our mission possible. Your well‑being is an investment in our collective success.