Transparent Search Group is hiring: Software Engineer in El Segundo

About the job Software Engineer

Job Title: Software Engineer

Location: El Segundo, CA (On-site, up to 25% travel)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $180,000 $200,000

About the Role

We are looking for a backend-leaning Software Engineer with full-stack experience and an active Top Secret (TS) clearance to join our fast-paced defense tech startup.

In this role, you will take ownership of critical backend systems, integrate sensitive data sources, and work with cutting-edge reinforcement learning models in classified environments. You will collaborate closely with our science team to turn advanced mathematical models into robust, production-ready software that directly impacts national defense.

This is an opportunity to be an early team member in a company founded by ex-Meta, ex-Palantir, and military leaders who bring firsthand experience of the extreme challenges of combat, combined with deep expertise in AI and technology.

What You Will Do

• Build and expand core product and platform capabilities
• Deploy and fine-tune reinforcement learning models in classified environments, integrating sensor data
• Collaborate with our science team to translate research models into production-ready code
• Own backend systems and data integration, ensuring accuracy, scalability, and performance
• This role is in-person in LA with up to 25% travel to assist with customer integrations (be paid to work from Hawaii)!

• 2+ years of experience as a professional software engineer
• Backend-leaning skillset with strong full-stack development experience
• Ability to thrive in a fast-moving, ambiguous startup environment
• Strong problem-solving skills and ownership mindset
• Must hold an active Top Secret (TS) clearance
• Must be a U.S. person eligible for classified work

• 401(k)
• Healthcare coverage
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Travel opportunities with paid customer-site work