Software Developer

Job Title: Software Developer

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced TAK-X Software Developer with direct, hands-on experience in the TAK ecosystem. This role will focus on designing and developing custom TAK plugins that integrate with existing backend services and deliver intuitive, mission-focused user interfaces. The ideal candidate is technically strong, self-directed, and comfortable navigating complex codebases with minimal oversight. This individual should be capable of independently architecting plugin interfaces, implementing robust integrations, and delivering polished user experiences within the TAK environment. The candidate should further be comfortable working with a mixed team and incorporating inputs from technical leadership.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain custom plugins for the TAK-X ecosystem.
• Integrate TAK plugins with external backend services and APIs.
• Explore and understand existing application codebases to determine optimal plugin integration approaches.
• Design and implement intuitive, mission-oriented GUI components within the TAK framework.
• Troubleshoot, optimize, and enhance plugin performance and stability.
• Collaborate with backend and systems engineers to ensure reliable data exchange and system interoperability.
• Participate in regular engineering meetings supporting Agile software development.
• Document design decisions, integration approaches, and technical implementation details.

Essential Skills

• Direct, hands-on experience developing plugins within the TAK ecosystem (specifically TAK-X).
• Demonstrated experience with TAK SDKs and plugin architecture.
• Familiarity with TAK data formats, CoT (Cursor on Target), and TAK networking concepts.
• Ability to independently navigate unfamiliar codebases and develop well-architected extensions.
• Strong communication skills for technical coordination.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to operate with limited oversight.
• UI/UX design instincts with ability to translate operational workflows into intuitive interfaces.
• Solid understanding of software architecture principles and clean interface design.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Full-stack development experience, including: Node.js, Python, FastAPI, and PostgreSQL.
• Experience building RESTful APIs and backend service integrations.
• Experience with real-time data visualization or geospatial data systems.
• Experience working in defense, tactical, or mission-critical environments.
• Familiarity with ATAK, TAK Server development.
• Familiarity with secure software development practices.
• Comfortable providing live demonstrations or training sessions to broad audiences or tactical users.

Work Environment

Local candidates are preferred, but fully remote is acceptable. Remote candidates must be open to occasional travel (monthly to quarterly) to Red Bank, NJ and/or customer site in Arizona.

This is a Contract position based out of Basking Ridge, NJ.

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $75.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully remote position.

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 26, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $50 - $75