Senior Software Developer Lead

Senior Software Developer Lead

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Senior Software Developer Lead to support a mission-critical space program. This role will lead a small, high-performing software development team focused on Mission Management and Mission Planning solutions. The Senior Software Developer Lead will work in a cross-functional environment to design, develop, test, and deliver Java-based software that enables stakeholders to advance national security space missions. This position provides hands-on technical leadership across the full software development lifecycle and offers the opportunity to meaningfully influence system architecture, team performance, and mission outcomes.

Responsibilities include:

Lead planning and execution of software development activities, including detailed design, coding, and unit, integration, functional, and system testing

Translate system-level requirements into traceable software requirements, designs, code, and test artifacts

Partner with system engineering, product management, and mission stakeholders to ensure customer, operational, and performance requirements are met

Perform and lead code reviews to ensure compliance with technical standards, best practices, and security requirements

Identify software risks and issues through system-level analysis and lead mitigation strategies throughout the software lifecycle

Oversee test execution, verification activities, defect resolution, and acceptance criteria closure

Ensure alignment of product delivery and development processes with program plans, quality standards, and industry best practices

Track team performance and support integration of supplier and partner contributions

Required experience includes:

Experience applying foundational, object-oriented design, and software patterns

Hands-on experience with in full-stack software development environments

Proven experience across the software development lifecycle

Active with SCI eligibility

Ability to successfully complete a polygraph

Bachelor of Science degree in computer science, or a related technical discipline

Experience with front-end and backend technologies including: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, JavaScript frameworks, Spring Framework, Hibernate, RESTful APIs / OpenAPI

Experience working within agile environments (sprints, standups, user stories, release planning)

Familiarity with CI/CD tools such as Jenkins

Experience with middleware technologies, particularly messaging and web services

Experience using dependency and build tools such as Maven, Gradle, and Jenkins

Working knowledge of databases (SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL) and MongoDB

Experience developing and executing test plans

Background supporting space, defense, or complex mission systems

Salary Range: $150,000-190,000+ depending on experience

Full Benefits: Cigna Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO, Sick Leave if required by law, and Holidays