Forward Deployed Engineer
At a glance
Mid-level Software Engineering role at Bridge Defense. Washington · full-time · $135,000–$180,000 base.
techroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Put software into secure and field settings, connect it to existing systems, and keep it working alongside mission users
- Turn customer needs from real operating conditions into technical designs and working prototypes
- Create data pipelines, system connections and tailored applications as customer requirements change
- Advise customer teams while doing hands-on engineering, then troubleshoot and refine solutions
What you bring
- At least two years in software engineering or technical deployment work
- Strong coding ability in Python, JavaScript, TypeScript or a comparable language
- You can work in person with government users, including in classified or secure settings
- You can obtain and retain a U.S. government security clearance, with active TS/SCI clearance
Who this fits
This role suits a customer-facing engineer who can work through ambiguity, communicate clearly and focus on users’ needs. You’ll work on-site with government and defense customers, and travel may reach fifty percent when needed. Compressed schedules and overtime may be required when project timelines call for them. There is no relocation assistance.
From the employer
About Bridge Defense. Bridge Defense is redefining how modern defense technology is delivered. Based in Washington, D.C., we are built for the dynamic mission environment facing the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and federal law enforcement agencies. We provide full-spectrum national security solutions that combine secure infrastructure, cleared talent, and mission-ready software to meet evolving defense challenges. Our services include secure software development in classified environments and the design and implementation of advanced IT and cybersecurity capabilities ranging from secure cloud architectures and enterprise infrastructure to data center operations, scientific analysis, and cutting-edge cyber defense.
We are led by technologists and veterans with firsthand mission experience, which enables us to understand both the operational realities and the innovation needed to succeed. Our approach is agile and outcome-based, delivering results in weeks rather than months whenever possible.
At Bridge Defense we value people, integrity, and excellence. We foster an environment where innovation thrives in support of traditional mission requirements. Our team members receive competitive compensation, robust benefits, professional development and certification opportunities, and clear paths for growth while working on the nation’s most critical projects.
Core Values:
- Innovation & Responsiveness: We push beyond legacy models with efficient, tech-led solutions built to scale and evolve.
- Trusted Performance: Security, compliance, and deep experience in delivering to demanding environments guides all we do.
- Mission Focused Expertise: From veteran leadership to cleared engineers, our people understand both the technology and the mission.
About the Role
As a Forward Deployed Engineer at Bridge Defense, you will bridge the gap between mission users and modern technology. You’ll work on-site with government and defense customers to deploy, customize, and support advanced software platforms; directly shaping solutions that solve the hardest national security problems.
What You’ll Do
- Rapidly deploy, integrate, and support software in secure/field environments, collaborating closely with operators and mission users
- Translate real-world requirements into technical solutions and prototypes
- Build and automate data pipelines, integrations, and custom applications to meet evolving customer needs
- Serve as a trusted technical advisor and hands-on engineer for customer teams
- Troubleshoot issues and iterate quickly to ensure mission success
What You’ll Bring
- 2+ years of experience in software engineering or technical deployment roles
- Strong coding skills in Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, or similar languages
- Ability to work on-site with government users, including classified or secure environments
- Creative problem-solver, comfortable with ambiguity, and passionate about national security
- Strong communication skills and a customer-first mindset
Bonus Points For
- Experience deploying or supporting mission-critical software in field or tactical settings
- Familiarity with government/defense platforms (Palantir, TAK, AWS GovCloud, etc.)
- Prior consulting, technical customer success, or rapid prototyping experience
Security Clearance
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance: active TS/SCI clearance.
General Factors:
- Depending on project requirements, may be required to work within a compressed schedule; overtime should be expected when schedules demand it.
- Willing to travel up to 50%, if needed.
- No Relocation assistance.
- Anticipated Salary Range: $135,000 - $180,000 annually. Actual compensation will vary based on several factors, including, but not limited to, education, relevant years of experience, technical expertise, certifications, security clearance level, contract requirements, internal equity, and overall qualifications.
- Bridge Defense offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, paid holidays, life insurance and disability coverage.
Software Engineering work from LinkedIn, X, Reddit and Upwork, in one list.
Each morning you get everything that fits, strongest first.
Software Engineering$130k+
Find me workBy the team behind techroles.