Principal Kafka Software Developer

Overview

Principal Kafka Software Developer to architect, design, and build next-generation applications for the FAA TFDM platform, including Kafka/data streaming and platform modernization.

What you'll do

• Architect, design, and develop next-generation applications using software engineering best practices.
• Build and modernize real-time data streaming solutions using Kafka ecosystem and streaming frameworks.
• Apply infrastructure-as-code and containerization for deployments on platforms like Kubernetes/OpenShift.
• Provide architectural oversight for development work across integrations, test automation, security testing, and deployments.
• Investigate and repair defects across components including Kafka/data streaming, CI/CD, front-end, and back-end.
• Lead solution design and provide executive-level technical briefings as needed.

What you'll need

• 12+ years of full lifecycle software development experience.
• 3+ years combined hands-on experience designing, developing, and supporting Apache Kafka or streaming data solutions in production.
• 7+ years combined experience with software development in Java, C++, or Python.
• Experience with AI-leveraged development approaches and tools (e.g., agentic coding tools, RAG, AI evals/guardrails).
• Knowledge of object-oriented design, software architecture, design patterns, distributed systems, and modern engineering practices.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance, with requirement to be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Details

• Remote possible; preference for local candidates who can work 3 days per week in Gaithersburg, MD; Atlantic City, NJ; or Eagan, MN.
• Willingness to travel up to 25% as needed.