Lead AI Software Developer

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Lead AI Software Developer to support the modernization of mission-critical air traffic systems. This is a hybrid position in Gaithersburg, MD, requiring three days on-site and two days remote each week. Candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Public Trust.

The Lead AI Software Developer will develop and modernize real-time software used in safety-critical environments. This role combines microservices development, systems engineering, and AI-assisted software development to improve the quality and reliability of complex applications.

Responsibilities for the Lead AI Software Developer include:

• Design, develop, and maintain microservices that support real-time, mission-critical applications
• Translate system requirements into software solutions in collaboration with systems engineers, architects, and product teams
• Analyze existing interfaces, data flows, and codebases to introduce new capabilities while maintaining operational stability
• Integrate services with databases, messaging platforms, and external APIs
• Use AI-assisted tools to support coding, debugging, refactoring, and test development
• Develop automated unit, integration, contract, and end-to-end tests to support reliable software releases
• Participate in Agile ceremonies and technical design discussions alongside QA, DevSecOps, and platform teams
• Troubleshoot software issues, improve application performance, and contribute to continuous delivery practices

Required Qualifications for the Lead AI Software Developer include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field and 4+ years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree and 2+ years; equivalent experience may be considered
• Hands-on experience developing and supporting microservices-based applications
• Proficiency in Java, Python, C++, or a comparable programming language in a Linux environment
• Experience using AI-assisted engineering tools to analyze code, develop solutions, and improve software quality
• Experience or exposure to AI/ML-enabled systems, automation, or intelligent platforms
• Ability to understand complex software systems, interfaces, and data flows and communicate architectural concepts
• Experience enhancing existing software while maintaining system stability
• Experience working in Agile environments and knowledge of APIs and distributed systems
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Public Trust and successfully complete required background investigations

Preferred Qualifications for the Lead AI Software Developer include:

• Experience with large-scale distributed, high-availability, or safety-critical systems
• Experience analyzing existing codebases, reverse-engineering designs, or integrating legacy systems
• Familiarity with SAFe, Git, CI/CD pipelines, and DevSecOps practices
• Experience with relational or NoSQL databases and Kafka or other event-streaming technologies
• Familiarity with AWS, Azure, or GCP and container technologies such as Docker and Kubernetes
• Experience integrating automated testing frameworks into CI/CD pipelines

Compensation for the Lead AI Software Developer includes:

Salary Range: $138,000–$147,000 annually, depending on experience

Full Benefits Package: PTO, Paid Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Tuition Reimbursement, Sick Leave as Required by Law

This job opens for applications on 10/26/2026. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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