We are seeking an experienced Applications Programmer Senior – Quality Assurance (QA) Ops Team Lead to support a mission-critical IT security program within a Federal Government environment. This role is responsible for leading the development, testing, and quality assurance of software applications, ensuring compliance with security and operational standards. The ideal candidate will have expertise in code development, software design, automated testing, and database management, along with the ability to mentor team members and enforce best practices in software quality assurance. **Responsibilities** Software Development & Application Management + Lead the design, development, and maintenance of secure, high-performance applications. + Write, test, and optimize code for mission-critical applications, ensuring efficiency and security compliance. + Develop and implement software installation and deployment strategies. + Collaborate with database administrators to ensure efficient and secure database design and integration. + Quality Assurance & Testing + Oversee end-to-end software testing, including unit, integration, and system testing. + Utilize automated testing tools to improve testing efficiency and software reliability. + Conduct code reviews and performance testing, ensuring software meets functional and security requirements. + Develop and maintain quality assurance (QA) processes to enforce industry and Federal compliance standards. + Agile Development & Process Optimization + Work within an Agile development framework, ensuring continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD). + Perform requirements analysis to align software solutions with operational needs and Federal regulations. + Develop strategic plans for software improvements, including modernization and security enhancements. + Leadership & Team Collaboration + Manage and mentor development and quality team, fostering a culture of technical excellence. + Conduct training sessions on secure coding practices, quality assurance methodologies, and automated testing. + Assign and oversee workload, ensuring efficient execution of development and QA tasks. + Serve as the primary point of contact for QA operations and liaise with Federal stakeholders. + Security & Compliance Oversight + Implement IT security best practices to protect software applications and data. + Ensure compliance with Federal cybersecurity regulations such as NIST, FISMA, and ITIL frameworks. + Maintain thorough documentation of QA procedures, test cases, and application configurations. + Communication & Reporting + Prepare and present technical reports, application performance summaries, and test results to stakeholders. + Act as a liaison between developers, testers, and Federal clients, ensuring alignment on project goals. + Maintain comprehensive documentation of software requirements, test plans, and release notes. **Qualifications** + An active DOE Q clearance or equivalent is required for consideration. + Minimum 3 years as a Senior Applications Programmer and Quality Assurance Lead within the last 5 years. + 10+ years (MA/MS) or 12+ years (BA/BS) of experience in software development and quality assurance. + Experience in Federal IT environments preferred. + Strong expertise in software development, testing, deployment, and application security. + Hands-on experience with: + Code development in programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, or .NET. + Software application design for enterprise and mission-critical environments. + Software application testing methodologies (manual and automated). + Software installation and deployment on secure networks. + Database design and management (SQL, NoSQL, Oracle, etc.). + Agile software development environments and DevOps practices. + Automated testing tools (Selenium, JUnit, TestNG, or equivalent scripting for automation). + ITIL Certification (Required). + Additional certifications such as ISTQB, CSTE, or CISSP (Preferred). + Proven ability to lead and mentor development teams and foster collaboration. + Strong problem-solving and analytical skills to enhance software reliability and security. + Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage technical and non-technical stakeholders. **Work Environment:** + Requires on-site presence at a federal facility, with adherence to government security requirements. + Some travel may be necessary to support program operations and Federal agency needs. **Job ID** 2025-15846 **Work Type** On-Site **Company Description** **Work Where it Matters** Akima Mission Optimization (AMO), an Akima company, is not just another federal logistics contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska. At AMO, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States. **For our shareholders** , AMO provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years. **For our government customers** , AMO delivers innovative administrative support services that streamline operations, and enhance productivity. **As an AMO employee** , you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options. We are an equal opportunity employer and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. All applicants will receive consideration for employment, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender or gender-identity, age, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability, pregnancy or parental status, or any other basis prohibited by law. If you are an individual with a disability, or have known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us at job-assist@akima.com or 571-353-7053 (information about job applications status is not available at this contact information).