Software Engineer TS/SCI

Founding Software Engineer (Backend-Focused, Full-Stack Capable) – Defense Technology Startup

📍 Location: Los Angeles, CA (in-person, relocation assistance ~$7K provided)

🔐 Clearance: Active Top Secret / TS-SCI required

💵 Compensation: $180K–$280K base equity (up to 0.25%)

This role is being managed by Talent Stack LLC, a woman-owned recruiting firm specializing in cleared and technical placements. We are proud to represent a confidential, defense-focused client committed to solving meaningful, mission-critical challenges that support national security. the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling, to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world.

About Us:

We are a fast-growing defense technology startup backed by top-tier investors and trusted through significant government partnerships, including a large DIU contract. Our mission: build the AI stack for decision dominance — delivering technology that strengthens deterrence and secures peace.

Our team blends military experience with deep tech and AI expertise. We’re not just building software, we’re creating systems designed to perform in the world’s most demanding environments.

The Role:

We’re seeking backend-leaning Software Engineers with full-stack skills who thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment. This is an opportunity to join early, take ownership of critical systems, and see your work directly impact national security.

What You'll Do:

• Build and scale backend infrastructure powering mission-critical platforms.
• Deploy and fine-tune reinforcement learning models in secure, classified environments.
• Integrate sensitive data sources into AI-driven decision systems.
• Translate advanced research and mathematical models into production-ready software.
• Operate with autonomy, clarity, and speed in a highly agile team.

Qualifications:

• Active and transferable U.S. government issued Top Secret -TS/SCI security clearance is required prior to start date.
• 2 years of experience as a software engineer (must be backend- leaning with full- stack dev experience).
• Experience at top-tier tech companies or defense-focused startups preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field (top program strongly preferred).
• Proficiency in Python or Go (2 years).
• Experience in at least one additional language: Go, Java, C#, or C .
• Familiarity with TypeScript and modern frontend frameworks.
• Experience building and working with APIs (GraphQL, REST, gRPC, protobuf).
• Knowledge of server deployment and orchestration tools such as Kubernetes.
• Strong communication, adaptability, and ability to thrive in fast-paced startup environments.
• This role is in-person in El Segundo, CA, with a general expectation of being in the office 5 days/week. Up to 25% travel may be required for customer integrations.

Benefits & Perks:

• Competitive Compensation: $180K–$280K base equity (up to 0.25%).
• Relocation Assistance: ~$7K relocation package to Los Angeles.
• Comprehensive Healthcare: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer contributions.
• Generous PTO: Paid time off and company holidays.
• High-Impact Work: Code deployed where it matters most.
• Early Team Influence: Shape both technology and culture as we grow.

Why Join Us:

• Mission with Purpose: Contribute directly to strengthening national security.
• Fast-Paced Startup: Operate in a culture that values rapid iteration and problem-solving.
• Elite Team: Collaborate with military veterans and technologists from world-class companies.
• Growth Trajectory: Backed by top investors, with major contracts fueling scale.
• Ownership & Equity: Be rewarded for your impact with competitive pay equity.