Software Engineer, Python (Mid-Level)

Join a Mission That Matters

Torch.AI builds the government’s AI-native control layer—a foundational data and intelligence capability designed to give the United States enduring ownership over how knowledge is created, managed, and applied in mission-critical environments. Our vision is simple and profound: ensure the U.S.—not a vendor—operates its own AI infrastructure to make decisive, real-time operational decisions.

We work at the center of national security, helping agencies transform data into actionable knowledge across domains including information advantage, ISR, joint effects, force protection, and mission support. If you’re driven to build technology that strengthens U.S. defense readiness and protects national interests, Torch.AI offers an opportunity to make meaningful impact at national scale.

What It’s Like to Work Here

Torch.AI operates at the intersection of advanced AI, secure systems, and real-world operations. We solve complex, high-stakes problems by building scalable, modular technology that reduces cognitive burden, improves mission performance, and delivers timely, reliable, predictive intelligence.

Here, you’ll collaborate with a diverse team of engineers, data experts, veterans, and mission practitioners. You’ll have the autonomy to own meaningful work and the support of teammates who share context openly, challenge assumptions, and think creatively. Every day brings something different—early prototypes, production deployments, mission support, or scaling next-generation capabilities.

We’re a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where curiosity, adaptability, and a deep commitment to national security drive everything we do.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain Python backend services using FastAPI, Flask, or similar frameworks.
• Design, implement, and document RESTful APIs and service integrations.
• Work across the full development lifecycle: requirements, development, testing, deployment, monitoring.
• Troubleshoot issues in development and staging environments and contribute to root-cause analysis with guidance.
• Work with relational and NoSQL databases, optimizing queries and data models where appropriate.
• Contribute to CI/CD pipelines, test automation, and containerized deployments.
• Collaborate closely with DevOps, security, and platform teams to ensure secure, performant solutions.
• Participate in architectural discussions and propose practical improvements to services and workflows.
• Support junior engineers through code reviews and knowledge sharing.

What We Value

• B.S. or M.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
• ~3–6 years of professional Python development experience.
• Strong Python skills and experience building backend APIs/services.
• Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases and working with data interchange formats (JSON, Parquet, Avro).
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS preferred) and deployment workflows.
• Comfort working with Git, CI/CD, and containerized development environments.
• Understanding of secure coding practices and basic infrastructure concepts.
• Ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams and communicate clearly.
• Nice-to-have:
  • Experience with orchestration tools (Airflow), integration tools (NiFi)
  • Exposure to messaging/streaming platforms (Kafka)
  • Experience with observability tooling (Kibana, Prometheus)
  • Experience in defense/intelligence contexts (optional)

Security Clearance

Some roles require an active Secret, Top Secret, or Top Secret/SCI clearance. If you do not currently hold an active clearance but believe you may be eligible, we encourage you to apply as sponsorship is also available.

Work Location

We hire for roles at our headquarters in Leawood, KS, and for hybrid/remote positions in the Arlington, VA, Washington, DC, and Maryland (DMV) region. Some roles may require limited travel (<10%) to customer sites.

Incentives

• Equity participation for all employees within the first 12 months
• Competitive salary + quarterly performance bonus
• Unlimited PTO + 11 paid company holidays
• High-growth, mission-driven environment with significant professional development opportunities
• Weekly in-office catering at HQ

Benefits

Torch.AI provides benefits that exceed regional and national benchmarks across multiple categories:

401(k)

• Torch.AI provides participating employees with the option to enroll in a company-sponsored plan. Currently, Torch.AI does not provide matching.

Medical

• Three plan options: PPO, HSA, TRICARE Supplement
• HSA contributions significantly above regional norms
• Rare TRICARE Supplement offering (top ~18% of employers)

Spending Accounts

• HSA, FSA, and Dependent Care FSA with high employer contributions and rollover flexibility

Dental

• Plans with annual maximums up to 2.6× the national average

Vision

• VSP Choice network with above-market frame allowances

Life Insurance

• Employer-paid life insurance equal to 1× salary (substantial above-market coverage)

Disability & Illness

• Top 10% regional coverage for STD and LTD (both employer paid)

Voluntary Benefits

• Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity
• Commuter benefits up to $300/month (tax-free)

Torch.AI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.