
Software Development Engineer in Test
Owlcyberdefense • Columbia, Maryland, United States
Role & seniority: Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET), individual contributor, Automation & Performance focus
Stack / tools: Python, Ansible, Java, bash; Linux-based systems; Networking (routing/switching); performance testing concepts; packet capture/playback automation (preferred)
Top 3 responsibilities
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Plan, execute, and analyze performance benchmarks (throughput, latency, stress) and establish baselines
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Design, develop, and maintain automated test solutions for cross-domain networking and filtering systems; expand automation coverage
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Collaborate with developers, systems engineers, and test team; participate in reviews; drive quality improvements
Must-have skills
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Proficient in Python, Ansible, Java, or bash
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Solid networking knowledge (routing/switching) and troubleshooting
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Software development experience, strong analytical/problem-solving skills
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Experience with Linux; ability to work in secure/regulated environments; clear communication
Nice-to-haves
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Familiarity with performance/load testing concepts
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Packet capture/playback automation experience
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Experience in secure/certified environments; understanding of data flow and protocols
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Location & work type: Columbia, MD; Hybrid work environment
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Additional: Requires ability to obtain/maintain a US Government security clearance; small, collaborative team setting
Full Description
Job Title: Software Development Engineer in Test Department: Engineering Reports to: Manager – Systems Test Engineering Office: Columbia, MD Work Environment: Hybrid
Owl Cyber Defense is a leader and trusted partner in cyber security. We deliver solutions that protect and connect the world’s most critical networks. Owl’s product lines of cross domain, data diode, and portable media solutions provide the strongest available security checkpoints for threat prevention and secure data availability. Our in-depth expertise in security engineering at the operating system level enables us to help government and commercial customers meet ever-evolving cyber security threats.
Job Summary
The Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) – Automation & Performance plays a key role in ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of cross-domain networking and filtering devices. This role focuses on building automated test solutions, executing performance benchmarks, and supporting the validation of systems that control and secure data flows across security boundaries.
The ideal candidate is a skilled software developer who is passionate about technology, enjoys solving complex problems, and thrives in a small, tightly knit engineering team where collaboration, ownership, and hands-on contribution are essential.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Performance Benchmarking
Plan and execute performance, throughput, latency, and stress testing Establish and maintain performance baselines for cross-domain devices Identify performance risks related to data volume, protocol complexity, and system configuration Analyze and communicate performance results and trends
Test Automation and Quality Engineering
Design, develop, and maintain automated test solutions for cross-domain networking and filtering systems Support automated functional, integration, and system-level testing Increase automation coverage to reduce reliance on manual testing Verify correct enforcement of filtering rules, data handling, and protocol behavior
Collaboration and Team Engagement
Work closely with developers, systems engineers, and test team members in a small, collaborative environment Participate in design, requirement, and test reviews Share ideas, raise quality concerns early, and contribute to continuous improvement Take ownership of assigned work and support team success
Requirements/Qualifications
Education Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Proven track record of innovating with Python, Ansible, Java, or bash (any or all). Solid understanding and experience with Network (Routing/Switching) Architecture and troubleshooting Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Familiarity with performance or load testing concepts (preferred) Experience working with Linux-based systems (preferred) Understanding of networking protocols and data flow concepts (preferred) Experience working in secure, regulated, or controlled environments (preferred) Experience Packet Capture and Playback automation (preferred) Additional Competencies/Requirements Genuine enthusiasm for technology and engineering Enjoyment of hands-on work and learning new systems Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality Clear written and verbal communication skills Ability to collaborate effectively in small, tightly knit teams Candidates must be able to obtain/maintain a US Government security clearance About Owl Cyber Defense Solutions, LLC
Owl Cyber Defense Solutions, LLC is a fast-growing cybersecurity solutions company, holding a firm leadership position in network security and secure information transfer. It is a privately-owned US company with offices in Columbia, MD, Danbury, CT and Morrisville, NC. For more information, see http://www.owlcyberdefense.com.
Owl Cyber Defense is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment.