IT Software Engineer

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior or Mid-Level) to support advanced research & development initiatives for the DOT. This role is located in McLean, VA and requires 100% onsite presence. The Software Engineer will support mission critical R&D by developing advanced technologies for cooperative driving automation, autonomous and connected vehicles, transportation simulation, and AI‑driven traffic management to improve roadway safety, efficiency, and sustainability nationwide.

Responsibilities of the Software Engineer include:

• Design, develop, implement, and test software packages in support of CDA, AMS, and Advanced Transportation Technologies
• Develop and maintain software using Python in a Linux environment
• Implement interface adapters to convert data formats (e.g., JSON to XML)
• Develop unit tests and integration tests in support of continuous integration processes
• Collaborate with cross-functional research teams to translate project goals into software design, implementation, and validation tasks
• Participate in code reviews and provide constructive feedback on software and documentation
• Utilize Git for version control and support collaborative development workflows
• Support development, testing, and evaluation activities conducted within the Saxton Transportation Operations Laboratory and related research environments

Qualifications of the Software Engineer include:

• 0-4 years of experience with degree in Engineering/Computer Science/related field
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder with the ability to obtain a Public trust (3 years US residency required)
• Proficient with Python development in Linux environments, including unit & integration testing
• Experience with robotics or autonomous systems fundamentals & related algorithms/architectures
• Familiarity with data formats & interfaces (JSON, XML) & Git version control
• Experience developing software in C++ & designing system/software architectures (ICDs, design docs, …)
• Background in research prototyping, tool evaluation, & Agile development (JIRA, Confluence)