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Computer Science Startup Jobsexternal in Sterling, VA (NOW HIRING)

Network Scientist

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$130 - $160/hr

Advanced degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field and at least one (1) ... Working in startup or fast-moving product environments. * AI-assisted workflows or developer ...

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Computer Science Startup information

See Sterling, VA salary details

$82.7K

$101.5K

$134.2K

How much do computer science startup jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer science startup in Sterling, VA is $101,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,100.00 and $113,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer science startup?

A Computer Science Startup job typically involves working in a newly founded tech company, focusing on developing innovative software, algorithms, or systems. Employees in these roles often wear multiple hats, including coding, product development, and problem-solving. Startups require adaptability, creativity, and a willingness to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment. Unlike established companies, startups may offer more autonomy and opportunities for rapid career growth but can also come with higher uncertainty.

What are the typical challenges faced in a computer science startup and how can I prepare for them?

Working in a computer science startup often involves managing rapid changes in technology, tight deadlines, and the pressure to deliver innovative solutions with limited resources. Team members frequently wear multiple hats, balancing development, testing, and sometimes even customer support or business planning. To prepare, it’s helpful to stay up-to-date with industry trends, cultivate flexibility in your work style, and strengthen your project management skills. Building a strong network and seeking mentorship within the startup and tech communities can also provide practical support and guidance. Embracing a proactive, problem-solving approach will help you navigate and thrive in this dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a computer science startup, and why are they important?

To succeed in founding or leading a computer science startup, you need a solid background in computer science or software engineering, an entrepreneurial mindset, and experience in product development. Familiarity with programming languages, cloud platforms, and agile development tools, as well as knowledge of industry certifications like AWS Certified Developer or ScrumMaster, can be highly beneficial. Strong skills in communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership are crucial to navigate uncertainties and drive team collaboration. These skills and qualities are vital to innovate effectively, secure investment, and build scalable tech solutions in a highly competitive market.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Science Startup jobs in Sterling, VA?

For Computer Science Startup jobs in Sterling, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Science Startup jobs in Sterling, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Science Startup jobs in Sterling, VA are:

Infographic showing various Computer Science Startup job openings in Sterling, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,511 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Network Scientist

goTenna Inc

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$130 - $160/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Network Scientist

goTenna Inc Fairfax, Virginia, United States

About this position

Work Type/Locations: Hybrid in either Jersey City, NJ/Clarksburg, MD/Fairfax, VA, Phoenix, AZ/Panama City, FL

About goTenna

goTenna is the world's leading mobile mesh networking company, providing off-grid connectivity solutions for smartphones and other devices, as well as augmenting traditional communications networks. This technology enables mobile, long-range connectivity without cell, Wi-Fi, or satellite connectivity. goTenna's products are currently in use by law enforcement, military, and public safety agencies worldwide. goTenna is a wholly owned subsidiary of Forterra, a leading provider of ground autonomy solutions for the US Department of Defense and other organizations.

About the role:

We'reseeking aNetwork Scientist to work with our CTO,Scientific Advisor, and Product & Engineeringteams to develop and extend goTenna’s Aspen Grove mesh networking protocol suite. Responsibilities include architecting, designing, simulating, and helping to implement networking protocols, producing specifications of such protocols and interfaces, and experimentally evaluating performance. The idealcandidateshould be passionate about goTenna’s mission,becreativeandself-motivated,and have strong written and oral communication skills. The Network Scientist should display strong critical-thinkingabilitiesand have a collaborative approach to solving problems, while also being able to work independently whenrequired.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Designing, implementing, simulating, and analyzing network protocol models.
  • Designing cutting-edge medium access, routing, and transport protocols for mesh networking.
  • Constructing models and running simulations in Network Simulator 3 (ns-3) or similar discrete-event simulation tool to evaluate, refine, and estimate performance for a variety of scenarios.
  • Producing design specifications and experimental analysis reports.
  • Understanding the radio hardware and constraints to accurately represent them in models.
  • Collaborating with the firmware team to support the implementation in actual radio hardware, including supporting the firmware implementation via simulation results and auxiliary software as appropriate.
  • Working with the Product team to determine the feasibility of new features and capabilities.
  • Professional activities including publishing at peer-reviewed conferences, journals and performing committee service.
  • Driving cutting-edge innovation in wireless networking and related technologies, facilitating new idea generation, and patenting inventions
  • Writingcompany white papers to allow the team and customers to keep up with state-of-the-art developments.
  • Supporting troubleshooting of issues found by the QA team, when needed.
  • Providing expert-level protocol know-how training and support to other teams.
Required Experience:
  • Advanced degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field and at least one (1) year of relevant experience in Computer Networking, Wireless Mesh Networking, and Network Communications.
  • Extensive knowledge of C++ and Python programming languages.
  • Experience in Embedded Systems and Network Architecture.
  • Developing novel routing solutions for wireless mesh networks using NS-3 simulation framework
Preferred Experience:
  • Multi-team or scaled environments with complex dependencies.
  • Working in startup or fast-moving product environments.
  • AI-assisted workflows or developer tooling.
  • Working on government-focused projects.
CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY

This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances:

ITAR: U.S. Citizen or Green Card Required Placement

Placement at the appropriate job level (entry, senior, etc) will be determined by a combination of years of experience, demonstration of proficiency in this field, and other qualifications.

goTenna is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Benefits:
  • Equity
  • 401(k) plan
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Parental Leave with Pay
  • Holiday pay (including December recess)
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and life insurance
  • Pre-tax benefits
  • Short- and Long-term disability plans
  • Professional Development Stipend
Pay range

130,000 - 160,000 USD per year (Hybrid (Jersey City, NJ))

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