Lead Computer Programmer Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

As a Cryptologic Computer Scientist, Level 3 at Independent Software, you will bring advanced computer science and software engineering expertise to some of the nation’s most complex technical challenges. We are a mission-first company where talented engineers are empowered to own their work, innovate with autonomy, and directly support national security outcomes. If you are looking for a role where your technical contributions drive real impact within a collaborative, high-performing team, this is the place for you.

In this role, you'll work at the intersection of software development, data science, cryptologic computer science, and mission analytics. You will support a senior Data Science lead in designing and building analytics platforms, developing tools to process and model large datasets, and creating scalable solutions that support national security efforts. Your experience in data-driven systems, algorithm development, vulnerability research, reverse engineering, exploitation, and analytic pipelines will be key in enabling advanced cryptologic, cybersecurity, and Computer Network Operations (CNO) missions.

You will apply a scientific and mission-focused approach to design, develop, and deliver solutions in areas such as forensics, attack attribution, critical network protection, penetration testing, vulnerability research, exploitation, and operational cyber support. Your work will enable state-of-the-art cryptologic and cybersecurity missions, providing the tools, techniques, and operational capabilities necessary to protect critical systems, uncover adversary tactics, and support offensive and defensive cyber operations.

• Collaborate closely with a Data Science Lead to build and support advanced analytics pipelines and data models
• Design, develop, deliver, and operate solutions to complex cryptologic computer science problems
• Apply software engineering best practices to mission-driven data science challenges
• Develop scalable, secure, and mission-aligned tools that support complex analytic systems
• Perform advanced tasks in forensics, attack attribution, network protection, warning indicators, penetration testing, and knowledge discovery
• Conduct analysis, modeling, simulation, and reverse engineering to inform mission outcomes
• Work with large-scale structured and unstructured datasets to uncover insights that support national security missions
• Provide support for CNO tools, mission systems, and operational cyber activities

• Expertise in operating systems, algorithm analysis and design, programming languages, and data structures
• Strong software engineering and development skills, particularly for data-driven or analytics-focused systems
• Significant experience with data science, including data wrangling, machine learning, modeling, and analytic tool development
• Knowledge of compiler theory, computer architecture, database theory, and discrete mathematics
• Experience solving problems involving modeling, simulation, reverse engineering, or hardware/software development
• Experience developing software, scripts, tools, or capabilities supporting Computer Network Operations (CNO), cyber mission activities, or operational mission requirements
• Familiarity with CNO tools, operational support activities, and mission-focused cyber environments
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a mission-driven environment

Candidates must meet one of the following:

• Doctoral degree plus 4 years of relevant experience
• Master’s degree plus 6 years of relevant experience
• Bachelor’s degree plus 8 years of relevant experience
• Associate degree plus 10 years of relevant experience

• Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or closely related field
• Must include at least one programming course and four upper-level math courses (Calculus level or higher)

• Theoretical or applied computer science
• Modeling or simulation development
• Algorithm analysis, design, or evaluation
• Reverse engineering
• Vulnerability research or exploitation
• Computer Network Operations (CNO) support
• Design, development, or evaluation of computer or information systems (software or hardware)
• Development of software, scripts, tools, or operational capabilities supporting cyber, cryptologic, or intelligence missions

• Must possess an active TS/SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

• Support critical national security missions that matter
• Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
• Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
• Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.

Apply today.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.