Software Developer - Mid Career

The Conflict Simulation Laboratory (CSL) of the Global Security Computing Applications Division (GS-CAD) within the Computing Directorate has an opening for a Senior Software Developer specializing in the analysis, design, development, and implementation of scientific software for the CSL. The CSL develops and deploys the Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulation (JCATS) and JCATS Low Overhead Driver (JLOD) simulation suites to users around the world. The CSL also works closely with external partners to enable JCATS and JLOD to interoperate with other simulation models and tools in a federated environment to support more advanced training.

JCATS and JLOD are tactical simulations that model soldiers, tanks, and other military platforms maneuvering in a 3D environment. Line of sight, projectile paths, collision detection, and many other algorithms calculate real time results for military trainers and analysts. You will interface closely with sponsors and customers to determine simulation capability requirements and analyzes, designs, and implements new functionality using object-oriented programming (primarily C++) and classic computer science algorithms, while balancing performance tradeoffs. CSL simulation products are used for training and analysis by 30 countries, the Departments of Energy and War, and other government agencies. Their applications include military operations, peacekeeping, drug interdiction, homeland defense, site security, and civil defense preparation. You will interact with team members, project management, sponsors, and users, and will assume responsibility for the development and sustainment of major CSL simulation capabilities. The position will report to the E/CSL Associate Program Leader.

This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

This position requires full time onsite presence.

In this role, you will 

• Conduct technical tasks and guide the development of object-oriented software packages using C++ programming language in a Linux environment.
• Interface directly with sponsors, customers and other stakeholders on matters requiring coordination across organizational lines.
• Participate in all phases of object-oriented product development, including analysis, design and implementation, with direct interactions with sponsors and other modeling agencies.
• Create clear documentation for users on new and existing products and processes and ensure all materials are regularly updated to reflect enhancements, complex bug fixes, and workflow changes.
• Conduct direct technical support to customers and collaborate with JCATS exercise operations support personnel.
• Provide in depth contribution to field development and integration with outside models.
• Occasional foreign and/or domestic travel, based on project and customer needs.
• Contribute to and support production releases of desktop applications used by customers worldwide.
• Engage other developers frequently to share relevant knowledge, opinions, and recommendations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the SES.4 level 

• Act as the technical lead for the design and development of new major CSL simulation capabilities, such as hypersonic weapons, Artificial Intelligence integration, directed energy weapons, etc.
• Provide remote and on-site SME technical support for various customers. Assist the CSL APL in developing and presenting internal and external funding proposals.
• Act as the technical lead for multiple simulation model functional areas with responsibility for requirements vetting, design development and reviews, software implementation, documentation, and testing verification with minimal direction.
• Partner with the CSL APL and senior team leads to propose and shape tactical and strategic directions for the CSL.