CNO Developer Subject Matter Expert National Business Park, MarylandJOB DESCRIPTIONX8 is seeking a highly cleared Computer Network Operations (CNO) Developer Lead IV to support our advanced cyber capability development mission. This Subject Matter Expert (SME) position will lead a team in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining both hardware and software-based CNO capabilities. The ideal candidate combines deep technical knowledge with leadership experience to drive innovation in support of national security.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING - Lead and mentor a team of developers to deliver mission-critical CNO tools and capabilities.
- Design, develop, test, and maintain offensive and defensive CNO software and/or hardware solutions.
- Apply deep knowledge of system internals (Windows, Unix, mobile, or network devices) to reverse engineering and exploit complex systems.
- Ensure compliance with secure coding practices, documentation standards, and mission requirements.
- Effectively communicate development progress, risks, and outcomes to senior leadership and mission stakeholders.
- Guide the team in leveraging DevSecOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, and secure software development methodologies.
- Support the integration of CNO capabilities into operational environments, ensuring stability, security, and performance.
- Mentor and supervise junior IIC team members, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
WHAT REQUIRED SKILLS YOU'LL BRING - Bachelor's degree in a relevant IT or engineering discipline and 12+ years of related experience.
- Minimum 7 years of relevant CNO development experience.
- Proficiency in Python and C/C programming.
- Strong understanding of TCP/IP networking and socket-level programming.
- Demonstrated experience with low-level system internals in at least one technology domain (Windows, Unix/Linux, mobile, network).
- Ability to lead full software development lifecycle efforts and apply secure software engineering principles.
- Exceptional communication and technical leadership skills.
WHAT PREFERRED SKILLS YOU'LL BRING - Prior experience developing CNO capabilities for offensive or defensive missions.
- Proficiency in software reverse engineering and assembly-level analysis.
- Experience using Atlassian toolsets (JIRA, Confluence, Crucible) in a DevSecOps environment.
- Certifications such as PCEP (Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer) or CPP (C Certified Professional Programmer).
- Knowledge of CI/CD pipeline practices, automated testing frameworks, and secure coding guidelines.
MINIMUM CLEARANCE REQUIRED - Active TS/SCI with CI Polygraph
COMPENSATION - Salary Range: $220,000 + (depending on experience and education)
- Time Off: 24 Days PTO and 13 Federal holidays
- 401K: up to 10% 401(k) contribution
- Up to $15,000 annual performance bonus
- Up to $5,000 continuing education reimbursement
- Benefits: 100% medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance