Job description
Who we are
Picogrid builds hardware and software infrastructure to connect and control the systems that power modern defense operations. Our platform unifies sensors, drones, AI models, and operators into a single operational interface—powering mission planning, autonomous system control, and real-time decision-making for some of the most capable units in the world.
We partner directly with military operators, defense technology companies, and federal agencies to deliver rapidly deployable, mission-critical capabilities where they’re needed most—often on short timelines, in challenging conditions, and alongside real-world operators. Our technology is trusted in active operations, not just test environments, and we move quickly to close real-world capability gaps for those on the front lines.
Joining Picogrid means working on high-impact problems at the intersection of autonomy, national security, and cutting-edge technology. You’ll be part of a small, elite team that builds and ships systems used by the most capable defense organizations in the world. We operate with urgency, ownership, and a deep respect for the mission.
Role Overview
Picogrid is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design, build, and deploy high-performance, scalable software systems that power critical defense missions. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on building the backend platform and integration tools that support the next generation of connected defense infrastructure.
You’ll help architect and implement Legion, Picogrid’s vendor-neutral integration layer for mission autonomy and base defense. Legion connects sensors, drones, effectors, and software systems across cloud, edge, and tactical environments—bridging fragmented platforms into a single operational interface.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex problems at the system level, thrives in fast-paced environments, and wants to build technology that directly real-world military missions.
Mission & Scope
As a Senior Software Engineer, you’ll play a key role in delivering real-time, reliable, and secure software solutions that function seamlessly across hybrid environments. You’ll work across microservices, APIs, data pipelines, and integration tooling to help unify field systems and bring autonomy to the edge.
This position involves more than just code—it requires deep systems thinking, strong collaboration, and the ability to work directly with end users to solve real operational challenges.
Required Qualifications
U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance
7+ years of engineering experience in fast-paced, production environments
5+ years of experience in backend development using Go, Java, Python, TypeScript, or similar languages
Proven experience building microservice architectures and platform tooling
Strong background in distributed systems, data pipelines, or real-time processing
Deep experience with relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL), object stores (e.g., S3, MinIO), and geospatial tools
Strong grasp of HTTP APIs (REST, gRPC, GraphQL) and authentication/authorization models
History of working directly with customers to build and deliver meaningful software
Demonstrated ability to operate with urgency, ownership, and high engineering standards
Preferred Qualifications
Active U.S. Top Secret security clearance
Exposure to DOD IL5+, Top Secret, and JWICS environments
Experience building cloud-native, provider-agnostic software (AWS, Azure, etc.)
Familiarity with hybrid operating environments (cloud, edge, on-prem)
Experience with Kubernetes, Helm, and modern deployment pipelines
Understanding of regulated software development (e.g., DOD RMF, FedRAMP, NIST 800-53)
Experience supporting Golang-based applications in production
Background in low-latency FMV, video processing, or video storage systems
Experience building TAK (ATAK, WinTAK, iTAK) plugins or plugins for military platforms
Experience developing, deploying, or integrating with ML/AI models or MCP services
Who You Are
You have a bias toward action and take initiative without waiting to be told
You have an ownership mentality, you own the full problem space from initial thought through to delivery.
You build with a product mindset, always focused on solving real user problems
You work well under ambiguity, and bring structure and clarity to open-ended challenges
You hold yourself and others to high technical and ethical standards
You’re naturally curious, mission-driven, and eager to support national security
You either have experience in the defense industry or are passionate about building for operators on the ground
Export Control Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
