Engineer​/Developer - Software, Hardware, Research; Capabilities Development Specialist

Engineer/Developer - Software, Hardware, Research (Capabilities Development Specialist)

Fort George G. Meade Complex, MD

Pay Plan: GG, Grade: 11/1 to 15/10

Pay Range: $105,262 - $197,200 (Full Performance, Senior, Expert)

• Develop custom high‑priority offensive and defensive capabilities targeting difficult adversarial networks
• Lead innovative research and produce hardware and software tools for national security missions
• Design and prototype hardware components and systems for signals intelligence
• Analyze, reverse‑engineer, and exploit sophisticated malware and exploit capabilities
• Collaborate with cross‑disciplinary teams to deliver solutions that provide critical intelligence for decision makers

• Degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field. Degrees in IT, Information Security, Networking, or Cybersecurity considered if they include core CS curriculum (algorithms, computer architecture, programming, data structures, logic, and mathematics).
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience for Full Performance entry (Bachelor’s + 3 yrs experience), or corresponding levels for Senior and Expert entry.
• Experience in hardware or software engineering lifecycle, programming, vulnerability analysis, penetration testing, computer forensics or systems engineering.
• Strong skills in C, C++, Assembly, ARM, Ghidra, Olly Dbg, gdb, FPGA, Verilog, VHDL, PCB design, JTAG, oscilloscopes; or specialized knowledge in malware reverse engineering and RF/embedded systems.
• Certifications such as CISSP, CEH, GREM, GPEN are a plus. Military training such as JCAC is considered relevant experience.

• Competitive salary based on education and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and training opportunities.
• Full‑time, Monday‑Friday schedule with 8‑hour days and flexible start times between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
• Two‑year DCIPS trial period (one year for veterans’ preference).

NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph. NSA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process.

U.S. citizenship is required for all applicants.