What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cybersecurity Engineering Development Program (CSEDP) Software Engineer - Entry Level (Maryland) position at National Security Agency?
Responsibilities
NSA is seeking Software Engineers to advance a number of high impact systems and teams. Opportunities change constantly, but recent needs include: large scale platform development (hardware and software, HPC, cloud); accessibility development (508 compliance); AI/ML; complex algorithms and cryptography. As a Software Engineer at NSA, your work makes the world a safer place in countless ways including: saving lives of U.S. and allied soldiers; providing U.S. policy and decision makers with critical, timely intelligence; ensuring the continued safety of U.S. citizens and residents by thwarting foreign adversaries; and defending vital networks. The Agency offers a work/life balance that is hard to beat, with flexible work schedules, generous leave policies, and a number of continuing education programs to help meet your long term career goals. The sheer breadth of technologies supported provides endless opportunity for broadening expertise and leadership growth. Tools and technologies used evolve quickly, with systems and responsibilities spanning the full spectrum. More common tools and areas of interest include: C/C , Java, cloud computing, Angular, React, Python, PIG Analytics, Pyspark, agile development, continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD), containers and Docker, Kubernetes, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Linux (VMWare), ElasticSearch, Rust, micro services, Ansible, clusters, digital forensics, incident response, quantum, and so much more. Beyond technical skills, we also need strong critical thinkers, collaborators, independent self-starters, continuous learners and flexible contributors. We look forward to hearing from you - what excites you and where you think you can make the most impact. Please attach a copy of your transcripts from all schools attended, when applying for this position. Providing a copy of your transcripts is especially critical since the minimum qualifications for this position require a degree that demonstrates a concentration of Computer Science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas.
Job Summary
The Cybersecurity Engineering Development Program (CSEDP) is a U.S. Government program designed to develop participants in the evolving area of cybersecurity, while developing leadership and communication skills, to meet existing and emerging cryptographic mission demands. It is an entry level development program targeting tomorrow's cybersecurity software engineers with in-depth training and hands-on experience with the entire cryptographic development lifecycle including: design/development, key/code production, discovery of vulnerabilities, and application of cryptography in an operational environment. The development of Cybersecurity Crypto professionals will result in a unique set of skills necessary to design and evaluate high assurance cryptography, not otherwise available in academia. CSEDP participants typically complete 3-4 tours over their 3-year development in the below Crypto Engineering categories: - End Cryptographic Unit (ECU) Design/Development - Crypto Key Design/Development - Crypto Assessment and Certification - Crypto Application
Qualifications
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position. Degree must be in Computer Science (CS) or Software Engineering. Related fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics) may be considered relevant if the programs contain, at minimum, a concentration of courses in the following foundational CS areas: algorithms; computer architecture (not network architecture); programming methodologies and languages; data structures; logic and computation; and advanced mathematics (for example, calculus, discrete mathematics). Relevant experience must be in the software development process (i.e., requirements analysis, software design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment/installation, and maintenance) and programming. ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience. An Associate's degree plus 2 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience that is clearly related to the position.
Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule
Pay: Salary offers are based on candidates' education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position. Salary Range: $86,498 - $122,157 (Entry/Developmental) Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position. Training will be provided based on the selectee's needs and experience. Benefits: NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package. Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible). DCIPS Trial Period: If selected for this position, you will be required to serve a two-year DCIPS trial period, unless you are a veterans' preference-eligible employee, in which case you are required to serve a one-year trial period. This trial period runs concurrently with your commitment to the position, if applicable. Before finalizing your appointment at the conclusion of your trial period, NSA will determine whether your continued employment advances the public interest. This decision will be based on factors such as your performance and conduct; the Agency's needs and interests; whether your continued employment would advance the Agency's organizational goals; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. If you do not receive certification for continued employment, you should receive written notice prior to the end of your trial period that your employment will be terminated and the effective date of such termination.
How To Apply - External
Apply soonest, as job postings can close earlier than stated end dates due to changes in requirements. It is important to review and note the minimum qualifications, as only those applicants who meet the required qualifications will be contacted to continue the employment process. Please populate the resume tool to showcase any relevant work experience and education related to the position and answer any applicable screening questions. Information collected will be used to determine eligibility, and failure to provide accurate information may result in disqualification for this position. Please attach a copy of your transcripts from all schools attended, when applying for this position. Providing a copy of your transcripts is especially critical since the minimum qualifications for this position require a degree that demonstrates a concentration of Computer Science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas. A confirmation email will be sent after submission of the first application and also after any future updates to submitted applications. **Due to time sensitive communications regarding applications, please ensure your spam filters are configured to accept email from noreply@intelligencecareers.gov. For job vacancies that include stated testing requirements, also include the following: @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.com** U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process where appropriate.
DCIPS Disclaimer
With a broad range of positions available, tools, platforms, and methodologies used will vary from one team to another. Use of industry norms is common, including but not limited to: Docker, AWS, GitLab, Open Source (see code.nsa.gov for examples of NSA contribution), Databases (both relational and non-relational), various languages (Java, C, C , Python, etc.). The ideal candidate will reflect specialized skill or interest in one or more of the following skills/technologies: - Strong background in advanced mathematics (i.e. number theory, abstract algebra, linear algebra, probability theory, and discrete mathematics) - Solid grasp of data structure, algorithms, operating systems, and computer architecture. - Proficiency in languages like C/C , Python, and Java. - Knowledge of both symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, including hash functions, encryption, digital signatures, and key exchange. - Familiarity with protocols like TLS/SSL and network security principles for secure communications. - Understanding of hardware security modules (HSMs) and other secure computing (cloud) platforms. - Familiarity with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), intrusion detection systems (IDS), and vulnerability assessment tools. - Knowledge using cryptographic libraries, APIs and adherence to security standards (NIST, ISO 27001, and OWASP guidelines).
NSA is seeking Software Engineers to advance a number of high impact systems and teams. Opportunities change constantly, but recent needs include: large scale platform development (hardware and software, HPC, cloud); accessibility development (508 compliance); AI/ML; complex algorithms and cryptography. As a Software Engineer at NSA, your work makes the world a safer place in countless ways including: saving lives of U.S. and allied soldiers; providing U.S. policy and decision makers with critical, timely intelligence; ensuring the continued safety of U.S. citizens and residents by thwarting foreign adversaries; and defending vital networks. The Agency offers a work/life balance that is hard to beat, with flexible work schedules, generous leave policies, and a number of continuing education programs to help meet your long term career goals. The sheer breadth of technologies supported provides endless opportunity for broadening expertise and leadership growth. Tools and technologies used evolve quickly, with systems and responsibilities spanning the full spectrum. More common tools and areas of interest include: C/C , Java, cloud computing, Angular, React, Python, PIG Analytics, Pyspark, agile development, continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD), containers and Docker, Kubernetes, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Linux (VMWare), ElasticSearch, Rust, micro services, Ansible, clusters, digital forensics, incident response, quantum, and so much more. Beyond technical skills, we also need strong critical thinkers, collaborators, independent self-starters, continuous learners and flexible contributors. We look forward to hearing from you - what excites you and where you think you can make the most impact. Please attach a copy of your transcripts from all schools attended, when applying for this position. Providing a copy of your transcripts is especially critical since the minimum qualifications for this position require a degree that demonstrates a concentration of Computer Science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas.
Job Summary
The Cybersecurity Engineering Development Program (CSEDP) is a U.S. Government program designed to develop participants in the evolving area of cybersecurity, while developing leadership and communication skills, to meet existing and emerging cryptographic mission demands. It is an entry level development program targeting tomorrow's cybersecurity software engineers with in-depth training and hands-on experience with the entire cryptographic development lifecycle including: design/development, key/code production, discovery of vulnerabilities, and application of cryptography in an operational environment. The development of Cybersecurity Crypto professionals will result in a unique set of skills necessary to design and evaluate high assurance cryptography, not otherwise available in academia. CSEDP participants typically complete 3-4 tours over their 3-year development in the below Crypto Engineering categories: - End Cryptographic Unit (ECU) Design/Development - Crypto Key Design/Development - Crypto Assessment and Certification - Crypto Application
Qualifications
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position. Degree must be in Computer Science (CS) or Software Engineering. Related fields (e.g., Engineering, Mathematics) may be considered relevant if the programs contain, at minimum, a concentration of courses in the following foundational CS areas: algorithms; computer architecture (not network architecture); programming methodologies and languages; data structures; logic and computation; and advanced mathematics (for example, calculus, discrete mathematics). Relevant experience must be in the software development process (i.e., requirements analysis, software design, implementation, testing, integration, deployment/installation, and maintenance) and programming. ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience. An Associate's degree plus 2 years of relevant experience may be considered for individuals with in-depth experience that is clearly related to the position.
Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule
Pay: Salary offers are based on candidates' education level and years of experience relevant to the position and also take into account information provided by the hiring manager/organization regarding the work level for the position. Salary Range: $86,498 - $122,157 (Entry/Developmental) Salary range varies by location, work level, and relevant experience to the position. Training will be provided based on the selectee's needs and experience. Benefits: NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package. Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, Monday - Friday, with basic 8hr/day work requirement between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (flexible). DCIPS Trial Period: If selected for this position, you will be required to serve a two-year DCIPS trial period, unless you are a veterans' preference-eligible employee, in which case you are required to serve a one-year trial period. This trial period runs concurrently with your commitment to the position, if applicable. Before finalizing your appointment at the conclusion of your trial period, NSA will determine whether your continued employment advances the public interest. This decision will be based on factors such as your performance and conduct; the Agency's needs and interests; whether your continued employment would advance the Agency's organizational goals; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. If you do not receive certification for continued employment, you should receive written notice prior to the end of your trial period that your employment will be terminated and the effective date of such termination.
How To Apply - External
Apply soonest, as job postings can close earlier than stated end dates due to changes in requirements. It is important to review and note the minimum qualifications, as only those applicants who meet the required qualifications will be contacted to continue the employment process. Please populate the resume tool to showcase any relevant work experience and education related to the position and answer any applicable screening questions. Information collected will be used to determine eligibility, and failure to provide accurate information may result in disqualification for this position. Please attach a copy of your transcripts from all schools attended, when applying for this position. Providing a copy of your transcripts is especially critical since the minimum qualifications for this position require a degree that demonstrates a concentration of Computer Science (CS) courses in foundational CS areas. A confirmation email will be sent after submission of the first application and also after any future updates to submitted applications. **Due to time sensitive communications regarding applications, please ensure your spam filters are configured to accept email from noreply@intelligencecareers.gov. For job vacancies that include stated testing requirements, also include the following: @uwe.nsa.gov, @nsa.gov, and @pearson.com** U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. NSA is an equal opportunity employer and abides by applicable employment laws and regulations. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities during the application and hiring process where appropriate.
DCIPS Disclaimer
- VETERANS AND TRANSITIONING SERVICE MEMBERS** Thank you for your service! The National Security Agency (NSA) is part of the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). All positions at NSA are in the Excepted Service under Title 10, United States Codes (U.S.C.), Section 1601 appointment authority. Veterans' Preference In accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, "DoD Civilian Personnel Management System: Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System Employment and Placement," NSA applies veterans' preference, as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5, U.S.C., to eligible candidates. If you are claiming veterans' preference, you are required to provide acceptable documentation of your preference eligibility upon application. Acceptable documentation includes: - DD-214: "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," which shows dates of service and discharge under honorable conditions (Copy 4); OR - Certification of Service: A written document on letterhead from the appropriate branch of the armed forces that certifies the service member is expected to be discharged or released from active duty service in the armed forces under honorable conditions not later than 120 days after the date the certification is signed. The certification should include the military service dates, including the expected discharge or release date; AND - Standard Form 15 (SF-15) Application for 10-point Veteran Preference (http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/sf15.pdf). If you are claiming a service-connected disability of 30 percent or more, the documentation you provide must specifically demonstrate this level of disability; AND - VA Letter of Disability (for 10pt and Sole Survivorship rating) You may obtain a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs reflecting your level of disability for preference eligibility by visiting a VA Regional Office, contacting a VA call center, or online (https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/). **Failure to provide sufficient documentation of veterans' preference eligibility may preclude NSA from identifying you as a preference eligible candidate during the hiring selection process.
With a broad range of positions available, tools, platforms, and methodologies used will vary from one team to another. Use of industry norms is common, including but not limited to: Docker, AWS, GitLab, Open Source (see code.nsa.gov for examples of NSA contribution), Databases (both relational and non-relational), various languages (Java, C, C , Python, etc.). The ideal candidate will reflect specialized skill or interest in one or more of the following skills/technologies: - Strong background in advanced mathematics (i.e. number theory, abstract algebra, linear algebra, probability theory, and discrete mathematics) - Solid grasp of data structure, algorithms, operating systems, and computer architecture. - Proficiency in languages like C/C , Python, and Java. - Knowledge of both symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, including hash functions, encryption, digital signatures, and key exchange. - Familiarity with protocols like TLS/SSL and network security principles for secure communications. - Understanding of hardware security modules (HSMs) and other secure computing (cloud) platforms. - Familiarity with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), intrusion detection systems (IDS), and vulnerability assessment tools. - Knowledge using cryptographic libraries, APIs and adherence to security standards (NIST, ISO 27001, and OWASP guidelines).
Salary : $86,498 - $122,157
