Backend Developer
Location: (Springfield, VA | possibly Hybrid)
Clearance Required: TS/SCI, eligible to obtain a TS/SCI CI Poly
Salary Range: $155,000 to $170,000 (Based on Experience)
Position Overview
- Our client is seeking an experienced Backend Developer to support a high‑priority software development initiative for the National Geospatial‑Intelligence Agency (NGA). In this role, you will help design, build, and deliver a modern, browser‑based application that manages Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms) as part of the Risk Management Framework (RMF) process; directly supporting security audits, vulnerability assessments, and compliance tracking across mission systems.
- Youll work within a modern, cloud‑native environment hosted in AWS, where your backend expertise will be essential to ensuring system reliability, performance, and secure data management for a mission‑critical federal program.
What You'll Do
- Design, develop, and maintain scalable backend services using Node.js
- Build and optimize RESTful APIs for integration with frontend components and external systems
- Architect and manage SQL‑based data storage solutions (RDS, Redshift)
- Leverage AWS services—including Lambda, Glue, S3, EC2—to support application functionality, data pipelines, and distributed workflows
- Implement DevSecOps practices, including CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and secure deployment patterns
- Collaborate closely with frontend engineers, DevOps teams, cloud architects, and security personnel
- Ensure backend components align with RMF, secure coding standards, and federal compliance requirements
- Participate in Agile ceremonies such as sprint planning, backlog refinement, and peer code reviews
- Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize backend performance across cloud environments
Tech Stack
- Node.js, SQL, AWS (Lambda, Glue, Redshift, RDS, EC2, S3), Docker, Python, JavaScript
- Required Qualifications
- Active TS/SCI clearance
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years of backend development experience
- Strong SQL development skills, including performance tuning and complex query design
- Experience with Python and JavaScript
Experience building data pipelines and distributed workflows in AWS
- Strong understanding of secure coding practices, cloud security, and RMF‑aligned development
- Hands‑on experience with Docker, Kubernetes, or OpenShift, and containerized application development
- Excellent debugging, analytical, and problem‑solving abilities
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with AWS IAM, KMS, or other security‑focused cloud services
- Knowledge of POA&M workflows, cybersecurity compliance, or federal audit processes
- Familiarity with infrastructure‑as‑code tools (Terraform, CloudFormation)
- Experience working in high‑security or intelligence community environments
After onboarding, the program may allow some telework, but expect to be on-site.