Software Developer Contract Jobs in Sterling, VA

Employment in this role is conditional upon successful execution of the contract by the client.

The Work

The Software Developer will design, develop, test, and maintain software applications and systems. This position will require a detail-oriented problem-solver capable of analyzing software issues, collaborating on feature enhancements, and refining development processes while ensuring compliance with secure coding practices.

This position aligns with Cayuse’s core values of Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Adaptability, and Integrity by fostering technical solutions that meet customer needs, promoting teamwork, and prioritizing quality in deliverables.

Key Responsibilities

• Software Testing & Quality Assurance:
  
  
  • Develop and execute comprehensive software tests to identify and isolate software issues, failures, and their root causes.
  
  
  • Conduct system modification testing and validate readiness for implementation.
  
  
  • Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system, communicate detailed defect reports to software or web developers, and collaborate in resolution efforts.
  
  
  • Create and maintain a centralized database of known defects to support regression and triage processes.
  
  


• Application Development:
  
  
  • Design, develop, and enhance application features, including refactoring code for reliability and efficiency.
  
  
  • Fix application defects and participate in requirements refinement, design discussions, and code reviews.
  
  
  • Implement automated and manual test cases, execute test plans, identify edge cases, and support defect triage and regression testing efforts.
  
  


• Collaboration & Review:
  
  
  • Participate in software design reviews and provide input regarding functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and implementation schedules.
  
  
  • Collaborate with analysts, users, and leadership to translate requirements into functional, maintainable interfaces and applications.
  
  
  • Contribute to documentation processes, testing improvements, and troubleshooting across various development and production environments.
  
  

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications – Here’s What You Need

The qualifications and skills listed below are intended to provide a general overview of the requirements for this position. However, due to the anticipated nature of the contract and the absence of a finalized task order from the client, this list should not be considered all-encompassing. Additional qualifications, certifications, skills, or experience specific to the client’s requirements may be identified and requested upon award of the task order. Candidates should demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to adapt to evolving responsibilities as outlined by the client.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.


• Minimum of 4+ years of experience in one or more of the following areas: SharePoint/web design, software/application development, or software testing/QA.


• Proficiency in HTML/CSS and familiarity with modern programming languages or frameworks (e.g., C#, Java, JavaScript, .NET).

• Understanding of usability principles, accessibility standards, secure coding practices, and structured development lifecycles.


• Experience with relational databases, RESTful services, or automated testing frameworks.


• Active Secret Security clearance is required.


• Must be able to pass a background check. May require additional background checks as required by projects and/or clients at any time during employment.

Minimum Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate in a clear, professional, and articulate manner.


• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.


• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high-level attention to detail.


• Proven ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast past environment with changing priorities; adaptable to change and a quick learner.


• Must be self-motivated and able to work well independently as well as on a multi-functional team.


• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately


• Proficient in MS Office, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel.


• Strong analytical and debugging skills to identify software defects and resolve functionality gaps.


• Exceptional teamwork and communication skills for effective collaboration with stakeholders and cross-functional teams.


• Adaptability to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality solutions in dynamic environments.


• Commitment to secure, maintainable, and scalable coding practices.


• Self-driven, with an ability to independently prioritize tasks and meet project objectives.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting government or corporate intranets or mission-critical applications.


• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, automated testing tools, and performance or security testing methodologies.


• Knowledge of web-based workflows, form design, and production support environments.

Our Commitment to you / overview of benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance; Wellness Program


• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter)


• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability options


• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (Company Provided)


• Voluntary Life and AD&D options


• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with matching after one year


• Paid Time Off

Reports to: Program Manager

Working Conditions

• Professional office environment, with the ability to work onsite in the main office.


• Must be physically and mentally able to perform duties extended periods of time.


• Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed to meet the demands of this position.


• Must be able to establish a productive and professional workspace.


• Must be able to sit for long periods of time looking at computer screen.


• May be asked to work a flexible schedule which may include holidays.


• May be asked to travel for business or professional development purposes.


• May be asked to work hours outside of normal business hours.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Cayuse is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, skills, and abilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment in accordance with any applicable federal, state, or local law.

USD $110,000.00 - USD $160,000.00 /Yr.