Description

The DarkStar Group is seeking a Software Architect with a TS/SCI + Poly clearance (applicable to this customer) to join one of our top projects in Tysons, VA.  Below is an overview of the project, as well as information on our company, our benefits, and our $25,000 referral program.

THE PROJECT

The DarkStar Group's team provides tactical data engineering solutions. We embed skilled Data Engineers, Data Scientists, and ETL Developers directly into intelligence analyst groups to be their go-to data wranglers.  We develop new tools, code, and services to execute data engineering activities.  Our engineers work to collect, process, and feed analytic tools, turning data into intelligence in response to immediate mission needs, with direct impact on real world situations.  You will see your work used here on a daily basis, and you'll have the opportunity to support a variety of Sponsor mission organizations and mission partner organizations.

This is a time of development and growth on the program, with an increasing number of missions being supported.  The work is high impact and important, and the customer moves quickly.  The environment is fast-paced, flexible, and open to innovation - you'll have more latitude here in choosing how to achieve results than on many other projects.  The customer cares more about what you can do as opposed to your years of experience, and work hours are typically quite flexible - roll up your sleeves, get things done, and no one cares much about the specific hours that you work.  The work space itself is also quite nice, and there is an excellent cafeteria!

The tech stack on this team is rather huge and includes Python (Pandas, numpy, scipy, scikit-learn, standard libraries, etc.), Python packages that wrap Machine Learning (packages for NLP, Object Detection, etc.), Linux, AWS/C2S, Apache NiFi, Spark, pySpark, Hadoop, Kafka, ElasticSearch, Solr, Kibana, neo4J, MariaDB, Postgres, Docker, Puppet, and many others. 

Work on this program takes place in Chantilly, VA, McLean, VA and in various field offices throughout Northern VA (we cannot support remote work) and requires a TS/SCI + Polygraph clearance (acceptable to this customer).

THE ROLE

• As a lead Software Architect, you should be well versed in data governance, data access, control and sharing policy across multiple domains and fabrics, and meeting the security requirements for accreditations. Your role will demand a strong understanding of software architecture principles, ensuring that the foundation of the systems you design is robust and scalable. You will need to be proficient in multiple programming languages, allowing you to make informed decisions about the appropriate technology stack for each project. Your excellent communication skills will be essential as you lead software development projects, ensuring that your vision is understood and executed by your team. Your day-to-day tasks will include leading Technical Exchange Meetings (TEMs), documenting and recording every aspect of an application or software, which is crucial for maintaining a clear understanding of system functionalities and for future maintenance work. You will also be responsible for training and overseeing the activities of the onsite development team members, sharing your knowledge and ensuring that best practices are followed. Planning, and tracking software deliverables will be a key part of your role, requiring strong project management skills and familiarity with agile methodologies to adapt to the dynamic nature of software development. In this role, you will be the go-to expert for locating and directing solutions for critical challenges involving software and hardware interfaces. Your problem-solving abilities will be put to the test as you identify and resolve issues within software systems. Leadership qualities will be paramount as you develop good working relationships with clients, stakeholders, & fellow team members, fostering a collaborative environment that is conducive to delivering high-quality products. In some cases, your ability to analyze stakeholder requirements and translate them into technical solutions will be a cornerstone of your success as a Software Architect.

Required Skills

• Experience with Agile Methodology and Agile
• Project Management
• Experience in a lead role
• Experience with Client Communication
• Experience with Data Governance
• Bachelor of Science or comparable experience

About The DarkStar Group

Our Company

The DarkStar Group is a small business that solves BIG problems. We're one of the Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private companies in the US, and our engineers and scientists support the most critical national security missions in Virginia, Maryland, and elsewhere. Data Science, Software Engineering, Cloud/AWS Infrastructure, and Cyber/CNO are our core areas of expertise. We offer interesting and important work, job security, some of the best and most flexible benefits you'll find in the IC, and salaries so strong that they'll likely surprise you. 

Our Benefits

The DarkStar Group offers exceptional compensation and benefits:

• very strong salaries;
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision premiums for you and all dependents;
• the ability to get increased salary if you don't need medical/dental/vision;
• 100% company-paid disability and life insurance benefits;
• a generously-funded HSA;
• an 8% 401(k) contribution; 
• 31 days of PTO/holidays to start (more with tenure);
• the ability to flex time across pay periods without using your PTO;
• a generous training budget;
• $25,000 employee referral bonuses;
• business development / growth incentives; and
• top notch company swag.

** We have a huge growth opportunity, so we are offering up to a $25,000 reward for anyone new you refer whom we hire. **

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.