Principal Software Engineer

Fantom Corporation is a mission-focused organization supporting critical programs across the defense and intelligence community. We partner with our customers to deliver high-impact technical solutions while fostering a culture built on trust, expertise, and long-term career growth.We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead the design and development of scalable, high-performance distributed systems. This role focuses on building cloud-native applications, developing robust service-to-service communication frameworks, and supporting containerized environments at scale.The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in Python development, modern distributed system technologies such as gRPC and Protocol Buffers, and extensive experience working within Kubernetes-based environments.ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, and maintain scalable backend systems and distributed applicationsBuild and optimize services using Python and modern communication frameworks such as gRPC and Protocol BuffersDevelop and deploy applications within Kubernetes environments using Helm for orchestration and managementDesign and implement service-to-service communication and API architecturesSupport CI/CD pipeline development and automation using GitLabCollaborate with cross-functional teams to define system requirements and deliver technical solutionsOptimize system performance, scalability, and reliability across distributed environmentsIntegrate and manage data services and messaging systems such as MongoDB, Elasticsearch, and RabbitMQSupport containerized builds and deployments using Docker and modern build toolsParticipate in system design reviews, troubleshooting, and technical decision-makingRequired QualificationsMust be fully cleared with a recent MD polygraphMust be willing and able to work fully onsite at the location listed in this postingBachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field (or equivalent experience)20+ years of experience in software engineeringStrong programming experience in PythonExperience using Protocol Buffers (Proto) and gRPC for distributed systemsExperience working with Kubernetes (K8s) and container orchestrationExperience using Helm for application deployment and managementExperience designing and building distributed systems and microservices architecturesDesired QualificationsExperience with Java and REST-based service developmentFamiliarity with build and automation tools such as Autotools and Docker BuildxExperience with CI/CD pipelines using GitLabExperience working with databases and messaging systems such as MongoDB, Etcd, Elasticsearch, and RabbitMQExperience with containerization technologies such as DockerExperience working in cloud-native environments#CJFantom Corp is a Software Development, Agile Cloud, Cyber Security (Risk Management, Assessments & Authorization (A&A)), Data, AI Platform (Computer Vision Models), Podcasting Media Services, and IT Services provider. Established in 2015, Fantom Corp serves Federal customers with top-notch Cybersecurity Architects, Data Scientists/Analysts, Software Engineers/Developers, DevSecOps Engineers, Project Managers, Identity, Credential Access Management (ICAM) services , and Cloud-certified practitioners. We excel in delivering emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) with a focus on identifying trends, object detection, and classification of structured and unstructured data. Fantom Corp possesses mastery in all aspects of digital audio production. We lead in the ideation and creation of efforts for clients who want to harness the power of podcasting. We guide them in selecting the right show format for their needs and goals. As a Small Business, we possess the innovation, speed and flexibility to meet your requirements.We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.