Lead AI Software Developer

Overview In this role you lead the design and development of AI-enabled, microservices-based software within a SAFe agile environment to support critical air traffic operations. You’ll shape the Leidos Common Automation Platform (L-CAP) architecture, collaborating across systems engineering, product delivery, and DevSecOps to deliver reliable, scalable solutions. You apply AI-augmented development practices to speed delivery and improve quality while ensuring safety and regulatory requirements. This position offers hybrid work in Gaithersburg, MD or Egg Harbor Township, NJ with mission-wide impact for millions of travelers. Compensation / Benefitshybrid work arrangement (3 onsite days)opportunity to impact national air traffic operationswork on mission-critical systemscollaboration across cross-functional teamsprofessional development and career growthcompetitive pay range ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, and maintain microservices-based applicationsCollaborate in an Agile/SAFe environment with product owners and engineersImplement CI/CD and DevSecOps practices to deliver reliable softwareTranslate requirements from systems engineering into working softwareIntegrate services with databases, messaging systems, and external APIsSupport troubleshooting, performance tuning, and continuous improvementLead technical discussions and architectural decisionsImplement automated testing strategies (unit, integration, end-to-end)Leverage AI-assisted development tools to accelerate coding and testing Key requirementsBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)4+ years of relevant experience or a Master’s with 2+ yearsHands-on experience building and supporting microservicesProficiency in at least one modern language (Java, Python, C++, or similar) on LinuxExperience with AI-enabled or data-driven systems is advantageousAbility to analyze large, complex software systems and data flowsExperience in Agile environmentsAbility to obtain and maintain a Public Trust; U.S. citizenship requiredFamiliarity with APIs and distributed systemscross-functional collaborationeffective communication of architectural conceptsproblem solving and analytical thinkingmicroservices architectureJava, Python, or C++ on LinuxAI-assisted development tools