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Programming Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

The Budget and Programming Analyst directly supports the Execution and Congressional Branch within the SAF/SQ Special Programs Division. The Special Programs Division promotes integration of ...

The Budget and Programming Analyst directly supports the Execution and Congressional Branch within the SAF/SQ Special Programs Division. The Special Programs Division promotes integration of ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited college or university. * 7+ years of hands-on experience with IBM Maximo Asset ...

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Programming information

See Reston, VA salary details

$26K

$92.5K

$155K

How much do programming jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for programming in Reston, VA is $92,536.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $120,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can I get with programming?

With programming skills, you can pursue roles such as software developer, web developer, mobile app developer, systems analyst, or database administrator. These jobs typically require knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, or C++, and may involve working in teams, using development tools, and following project deadlines.

What is programming?

Programming is the process of designing, writing, testing, and maintaining the code that allows software applications and computer systems to function. It involves using programming languages, such as Python, Java, or C++, to instruct computers on how to perform specific tasks. Programmers solve problems, automate tasks, and bring digital projects to life by creating efficient and reliable code. The field requires logical thinking, attention to detail, and continuous learning as technologies evolve.

What jobs can you do in programming?

Programming offers a variety of job roles including software developer, web developer, mobile app developer, systems analyst, database administrator, and cybersecurity analyst. These roles typically require knowledge of programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++, and may involve working in teams, using development tools, and obtaining relevant certifications.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like machine learning, AI, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often working in leadership or specialized roles within the tech industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Programmer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++, along with a solid understanding of algorithms and software development principles, typically backed by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and often certifications in specific technologies or frameworks are valuable. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for building efficient, reliable software and collaborating effectively within development teams.

What is the difference between Programming vs Software Development?

AspectProgrammingSoftware Development
Primary FocusWriting code and algorithmsDesigning, creating, and managing entire software projects
Skills RequiredCoding languages, problem-solvingProgramming, project management, system design
Work EnvironmentIndividual coding tasks, debuggingTeam collaboration, planning, testing
CertificationsNone specific, often self-taught or bootcampsSoftware engineering degrees, certifications like Scrum or PMP

Programming primarily involves writing and testing code, focusing on individual tasks. Software development encompasses the entire process of designing, building, and maintaining software projects, often requiring broader skills and teamwork. While programming is a core component of software development, the latter includes planning, architecture, and project management.

What are some common challenges programmers face when working on large-scale projects, and how can they be addressed?

Programmers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as managing code complexity, ensuring effective communication across teams, and maintaining consistent coding standards. These issues can be addressed by utilizing version control systems, participating in regular code reviews, and leveraging project management tools to coordinate tasks. Additionally, adhering to clear documentation practices and following established development methodologies like Agile can help keep projects organized and collaborative.

Is coding a dead-end job?

Programming is a dynamic field with ongoing demand for skills in software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. While technologies evolve, programmers who update their skills and adapt to new tools like cloud computing and AI can maintain long-term career growth.
What are the most commonly searched types of Programming jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Programming jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Programming jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Programming job openings:
Infographic showing various Programming job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,536 per year, or $44.5 per hour.
Lead Python Programming Software Engineer - Level 4

Lead Python Programming Software Engineer - Level 4

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Fairfax, VA

$143K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 352 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SCITRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Expand your horizons, advance your career, and contribute to a secure future for generations. Northrop Grumman's Space Sector invites you to bring your pioneering spirit to our collaborative teams.

This Lead Python Programming Software Engineer - Level 4 role will sit at our Fairfax, VA location.

This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work. This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off.

This role will lead a small team of software developers to advance a new tool that simulates data flow through a network of satellites and ground stations. This role will work with large datasets from various sources to develop software that characterizes and predicts the impacts of the atmosphere on various missions and integrates communications network traffic solutions to optimize data flow through the system. The work will include complex algorithm development for software that contains logical and mathematical solutions to quantify and optimize operational decision-making and mission performance.

The ideal candidate will possess strong object-oriented python programming skills and attributes that include collaboration, creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking. The candidate should place a high value on rigorous testing, comprehensive documentation, and the maintainability of the software solutions. The ideal candidate will also have experience with satellite systems and networking.

Key Responsibilities

  • Contribute to architecture decisions by evaluating the pros and cons of approaches and technologies, and how they align with the project's goals and requirements.

  • Design and implement new software or modify existing software to add new features

  • Identify and fix bugs in the code, while considering greater impact on the software application as a whole

  • Develop tests that verify the correctness of the code and ensure it meets system requirements

  • Design, develop, and modify software pipelines and deployment methods to automate the software development process, ensuring consistency and efficiency.

  • Collaborate with other teams, such as network specialists, to ensure that the simulation software properly models relevant parameters.

  • Lead, mentor, and task less experienced software developers to create software capability

  • Support and deliver technical updates to Government customer.

  • Leads effort to transfer existing software tools and datasets from an Unclassified to a Classified environment

This position is contingent upon clearance verification and transfer to the NG sponsored program as well as continued ability to maintain required clearance level. US Citizenship is required.

This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work. This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off.

Basic Qualifications (must have to be considered)

  • Requires an active Top-Secret (TS)/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance [TS/SCI], current and within scope, at time of application]

  • Level 4: (Senior Principal level)

    • Bachelor's degree with 8 years of software development experience

      • An additional 4 years of experience may be considered in lieu of a completed Bachelor's

    • Master's degree with 6 years of software development experience

    • PhD with 4 years of software development experience

  • Proven experience programming within Python for a minimum of 3 years at a senior level.

  • Experience in software architecture design patterns.

  • Experience with Version Control practices (Gitlab Preferred).

Preferred Qualifications (not required but preferred)

  • STEM degree

  • Experience with networking

  • Experience with developing or using containerized software

  • Experience with DevOps fundamentals and the maintenance of software pipelines

  • Experience with productizing software solutions

  • Experience leading junior software developers

  • Experience with satellite network management and traffic topology

Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector? Click the link below:

https://www.northropgrumman.com/space

Working at Northrop Grumman is more than just a paycheck. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards and benefits package designed to help you thrive at work and in life. For more information on our Total Rewards package, please visit our Total Rewards site.

Northrop Grumman Total Rewards

Primary Level Salary Range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939