Junior Software Engineer (TS) – AI-Accelerated Development with Security Clearance

Linchpin Software is a specialized software development firm supporting a federal agency in the National Capital Region. We are expanding our team and looking for early-career software engineers who are eager to learn, solve complex problems, and grow within a high-performing engineering environment. This is an opportunity to join a mature program while working alongside experienced engineers, gaining exposure to multiple disciplines including software development, DevSecOps, automation, data analysis, and emerging AI-assisted development techniques. We are building software differently. Our team actively leverages AI-augmented development tools (such as coding agents) to enhance debugging, accelerate development, and improve overall engineering quality. This role is ideal for someone who is curious, adaptable, and excited to multiply their capabilities with modern tools. Location:
On-site in Washington, DC with telework options available upon request. Clearance Requirement:
Active Top Secret clearance required. Responsibilities:
• Participate in Agile Scrum ceremonies and team collaboration
• Engage with federal stakeholders to understand mission and business needs
• Develop, test, and deploy backend software features in existing systems
• Contribute to system enhancements, automation, and modernization efforts
• Perform data analysis and troubleshoot technical and functional issues
• Apply creative problem-solving and engineering thinking to real-world challenges
• Continuously learn and adopt new tools, including AI-assisted development techniques Required Qualifications:
• Active Top Secret clearance
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent experience)
• 1–3 years of experience in software development, including: - Developing, testing, and deploying backend software in a widely used programming language such as Java, Python, Go, JavaScript, Typescript, or .NET - Developing, testing, and deploying Java software using the latest versions of the Java Development Kit - Experience implementing and using backend frameworks such as Spring, Nodejs, NestJS, Gin, Hibernate, Struts, or Google Web Toolkit, as well as frontend frameworks like AngularJS, React, and NextJS - Experience with software development lifecycle processes, including Agile development - Experience with software design patterns and antipatterns - Experience with development tools (git, integrated development environments, code quality tools, etc.) Preferred Qualifications:
• Exposure to cloud environments (AWS or similar)
• Experience writing SQL queries and working with relational databases
• Familiarity with frontend frameworks such as React or Angular
• Interest in automation, DevSecOps, or CI/CD pipelines
• Curiosity and willingness to explore AI-assisted software development tools (Claude Code, Codex, GitLab Duo) What You’ll Gain:
• Hands-on experience across a wide range of engineering disciplines
• Mentorship from senior engineers and technical leads
• Exposure to mission-critical systems and real-world impact
• Opportunity to shape modern development practices using AI augmentation
• A clear growth path within a stable, long-term program Linchpin Software offers competitive compensation and benefits, along with a collaborative environment focused on technical excellence and continuous improvement.