Principal Software Engineer

Empower Critical Systems and Data

Ready to lead the design and development of powerful, end-to-end data systems that support national defense and healthcare operations? Bluestaq is looking for a Principal Software Engineer to join our fast-moving team and architect scalable, secure, and high-performance solutions from front-end to infrastructure. You'll collaborate with cross-functional teams, shape technical direction, and bring big ideas to life using modern tools and technologies. At Bluestaq, you won't just write code-you'll help engineer the future of mission-ready data. This is your chance to make an impact where it counts.

Why This Role Matters

In today's digital landscape, data security, scalability, and resilience are non-negotiable. Your software expertise will safeguard sensitive information, optimize mission-critical operations, and drive innovation in a high-impact environment.

If you excel at solving complex software engineering challenges, building scalable architectures, and mentoring teams, this is your opportunity to make a difference.

Responsibilities

• Architect and Develop High-Performance Systems
  • Design and build scalable, secure, and robust software solutions that withstand real-world demands.
  • Develop and maintain backend services, APIs, and microservices to support mission-critical applications.
  • Lead architecture discussions and system design for long-term scalability and performance optimization.
  • Optimize software for efficiency, fault tolerance, and security in distributed environments.
• Lead with Technical Excellence
  • Implement best practices in software development, including design patterns, SOLID principles, and secure coding.
  • Conduct code reviews, mentor other engineers, and uphold high-quality coding standards.
  • Drive performance monitoring and optimizations, identifying and resolving bottlenecks.
  • Troubleshoot and debug complex, multi-layered system issues.
• Elevate Engineering Processes
  • Champion test-driven development (TDD) and automated testing frameworks for software reliability.
  • Maintain FOSS and SAST scans, guiding developers on security mitigations.
  • Lead Agile and Scrum ceremonies, ensuring efficient sprint planning and execution.
  • Collaborate across teams, working closely with systems engineers, UI/UX designers, and DevSecOps engineers to integrate new technologies and architectures.
• Strategic Impact and Innovation
  • Contribute to strategic planning and roadmap development to align with business goals.
  • Research and integrate emerging technologies, ensuring Bluestaq remains at the forefront of innovation.
  • Influence technical direction, making key architectural decisions to future-proof systems.

Required Qualifications

• 12+ years of professional experience in software development.
• Expertise in Java, Python, or other major programming languages.
• Deep understanding of secure coding practices and compliance standards.
• Hands-on experience with Java build tools such as Maven and Gradle.
• Strong cloud computing experience, particularly with AWS.
• Proficiency in API development and microservices architectures.
• Experience with containerization tools such as Kubernetes and Docker.
• Deep knowledge of SQL (PostgreSQL, MySQL) and NoSQL (MongoDB, Cassandra) databases.
• Passion for mentoring engineers.
• Lead design discussions and review implementations.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Familiarity with Agile and Scrum methodologies.
• Experience integrating third party applications with custom software.

Preferred Qualification

• Experience working with both front-end and back-end technologies.
• Security certifications such as DoD Security+ or CISSP.
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect or equivalent cloud certifications.
• Experience with DevOps and CI/CD pipelines, including Jenkins and Terraform.
• Proficiency in full-stack development using technologies like React and Spring Boot.
• Familiarity with big data technologies such as Hadoop, Spark, and Elasticsearch.
• Experience with test-driven development using JUnit, TestNG, Mockito, and test containers.
• Proficiency in Git, GitHub, or Bitbucket for version control.

Required Education: 12+ years of software development with a Bachelor of Science degree OR Associate degree with 2 additional years beyond the minimum required may be substituted in lieu of a degree OR a High School Diploma with 4 additional years beyond the minimum required may be substituted in lieu of a degree.

Clearance Requirement: This position requires the ability to obtain a TS/SCI Clearance. To be eligible for a security clearance, US Citizenship is required, and an employee must agree to participate in a background screen and credit check. Eligibility for a TS/SCI Clearance will be assessed as part of the onboarding process or based on programmatic needs.

Why Colorado Springs?

• Tech Talent Hotspot - Ranked #2 up-and-coming tech market in North America by CBRE (2024).
• Top Place to Live - Named #3 Best Place to Live in the U.S. and Most Desirable City overall by U.S. News (2024-25).
• Neighborly Spirit - Recognized as America's Most Neighborly City (2024) for community engagement and quality of life.
• Active Lifestyle Hub - Top 5 for hiking and fitness, blending outdoor recreation and wellness (2022).
• Pet-Friendly Leader - Ranked #1 Most Pet-Friendly City in the U.S. (2023) for furry, scaly, and feathery friends.
• Women's Workforce Haven - Ranked #6 Best City for Women in the Workforce by Checkr (2025), highlighting earning potential and female leadership opportunities.

With 300 days of sunshine and the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop, Colorado Springs offers the perfect mix of urban energy and outdoor adventure.

Relocation: This position does not offer relocation. Candidates must live in the immediate area or relocate at their own expense.

Date the Position Closes: Applications will be accepted until October 13, 2025, or until the position is filled, whichever comes first.