Entry Level Python Jobs in Bethesda, MD (NOW HIRING)

Job Description Everforth ECS is seeking a Junior Software Engineer to work in the National Capital Region covering the Pentagon, Falls Church, and Fairfax . Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award. The War Data Platform (WDP) is a key initiative within the U.S. Department of War's (DoW) AI-First strategy introduced in early 2026. The WDP separates business and financial data from operational warfighting data, aiming to accelerate the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) on the battlefield. The WDP extends to Unclassified, Secret, and Top Secret environments, and supports collaboration between Combatant Commands, Joint Staff directorates, Senior Executive Service leaders, and operational analysts. The Junior Software Engineer contributes to WDP Core Integration software development by implementing assigned features, fixes, and configuration updates across development, test, integration, and staging environments spanning NIPRNet, SIPRNet, and JWICS under the guidance of senior software engineers. This is an entry-level role offering meaningful hands-on exposure to full-lifecycle, mission-critical government software engineering within a high-tempo DevSecOps delivery environment where code quality and security compliance directly impact warfighter outcomes. • Supports War Data Platform (WDP) Core Integration software development by creating application features, scripts, and configuration updates across development, test, integration, and staging environments operating on NIPRNet, SIPRNet, and JWICS.
• Writes foundational code using Python, JavaScript, Java, Terraform, Docker, and GitLab workflows to contribute to analytic tools, user interfaces, and automation services.
• Leads bug-fix activities and minor feature implementation while reviewing requirements, creating simple design sketches, and seeking clarification to validate technical direction.
• Implements assigned code components, runs existing Infrastructure-as-Code scripts, and applies baseline hardening standards while learning Department of War Security Technical Implementation Guide requirements.
• Updates Infrastructure-as-Code and Configuration-as-Code modules by modifying templates, variables, and resource definitions used to maintain consistent provisioning.
• Assists with virtual-machine and container-application hardening by validating configuration baselines, removing prohibited services, and updating image parameters aligned to DoW container-hardening standards.
• Supports security-scanning workflows by preparing code for static analysis, dependency checks, vulnerability assessments, and compliance validation performed within continuous integration and continuous deployment pipelines.
• Triggers builds, adds basic unit tests, addresses linting errors under guidance, and executes existing scanning scripts while applying minor corrective changes.
• Diagnoses coding errors, configuration discrepancies, and pipeline issues through log inspection, debugging tools, and environment consoles.
• Monitors dashboards, follows runbooks to resolve alerts, and contributes brief documentation such as README updates and code comments.
• Participates in Agile ceremonies, collaborates with senior engineers, follows story definitions, and delivers well-scoped tasks aligned to mission priorities.
• Produces structured notes, code revisions, documentation updates, and configuration artifacts that support traceability and maintain alignment with War Data Platform (WDP) Core Integration software-engineering objectives.
• Performs other duties as assigned. Required Skills • Current Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret (TS) security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
• 0-3 years of experience in software engineering, application development, or a closely related technical discipline, including relevant academic, internship, capstone project, or personal portfolio experience demonstrating practical coding ability.
• Foundational proficiency in one or more of the following languages or technologies: Python, JavaScript, or Java, with a basic working awareness of containerization concepts using Docker, version control workflows using Git or GitLab, and Infrastructure-as-Code principles using Terraform or equivalent tooling. Desired Skills • Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) eligibility.
• Entry-level cloud or development certification such as AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, AWS Certified Developer - Associate, or Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD), demonstrating foundational familiarity with cloud-native technologies applicable to WDP's multi-enclave delivery environment.
• Exposure to DevSecOps concepts and CI/CD pipeline workflows, including basic understanding of automated build, test, and scan processes as applied within GitLab CI or Jenkins in support of secure software delivery practices.
• Familiarity with Agile software development methodologies, including awareness of sprint ceremonies, user story structure, and iterative delivery principles as practiced within SAFe or Scrum frameworks in federal or enterprise program environments.
• Basic awareness of software security principles including static analysis, dependency scanning, and DoW STIG compliance concepts, with a demonstrated interest in developing skills at the intersection of software engineering and cybersecurity in classified cloud environments. ECS Federal LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis any characteristic protected by law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local jurisdiction law. is the federal segment of , a $4B global organization with over 10,000 employees. Our nearly 3,500 professionals deliver advanced technology solutions in data and AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise transformation, serving defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies. Our work powers mission-critical outcomes, strengthens technology partnerships, and creates meaningful opportunities for our people. We are defined by a commitment to excellence in delivery, a culture of innovation, and an environment where talent can thrive and grow. We value: * Attracting and developing top talent and high-performing teams * Fostering a culture that is engaging, accountable, and mission-driven