Who are we?

Independent Software is a consulting, product, and solutions firm dedicated to the practical application of software and system engineering technologies to solve complex problems. We bring together world class engineers with proven engineering best practices, domain expertise, commercial technologies, and proven agile management approaches to create high value solutions aimed at helping our customers meet their most critical business and mission objectives.

Why Independent Software?

We are focused on continual learning and evolution. We don’t do things because “that’s the way we’ve always done things”; we listen to our employees and adapt to the changing marketplace. We look at the big picture and encourage our engineers to get training and certifications in emerging technologies that will help shape our customer’s mission.

We’ve been profitable year after year. We’re always on the lookout for great engineers to join the team and we recognize that our employees are the heart and soul of what we do. We focus on recruiting talented people, treating them right, and then allowing them to do what they do best. No red tape. No micromanagement. Smart people want to work with smart people, and we love people who are passionate about what they do and finding ways to do it better.

Top Reasons to Work at Independent Software:

Great people deserve even better benefits, from comprehensive healthcare coverage and generous leave time to discounts with all our vendors.
You are not just a job title. That's why we tip the work-life balance scale in your favor. It's not about being billable, it's about being valuable.
Whether you're working on-site or in our offices, your role at Independent Software is just as critical to our success as your coworker's.
We're constantly researching and implementing the latest technology, so you've always got the right tools at your disposal.
As we've grown, we've retained that small company feel. When we say we have an open-door policy, we actually mean it.
Independent Software is comprised of wonderfully generous folks. We believe in supporting the causes our employees care about. Bring us an opportunity to help and we'll listen.
Teamwork got us where we are today. Our collaborative environment allows you to maximize your true potential.
The work we do is exciting, critical stuff. No matter your role at Independent Software, you're helping us keep the nation safe and secure.
We have a history of great achievement, and, with each year, our company gets even bigger and better. As we grow, so does the opportunity for our employees.
We host a variety of fun employee and family events throughout the year to say thanks for all that you do to make Independent Software a technology leader as well as a phenomenal place to work.

Benefits:

Competitive salary
Company Sponsored Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans
Company Paid Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability and Life Insurance
Employee Assistance Program
Your retirement plan is an important benefit you shouldn’t overlook. We offer a 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust that offers a powerful way to enhance your long-term financial well-being by investing in yourself. We offer immediate eligibility and company matching.
A generous Paid Time Off and Holiday package
Paid training! We encourage all employees to seek out training opportunities like conferences, certification courses and seminars.
We truly believe the right work-life balance can exist, and it's here at Independent Software. Our work is extremely important, but your job is just a part of who you are. When you enjoy your life outside of our walls, you're at your best the next time you walk through our doors. We do all we can to assure that happens every day.

Independent Software is an Equal Opportunity Employer EOE, M/F/D/V.

Database Engineer, Level 3

Annapolis Junction, MD

Full Time

Database Engineering

Experienced

What You Will Do:

As a Database Engineer (DBE), Level 3 at Independent Software, you will provide technical expertise in the design, development, implementation, and management of complex database systems supporting mission-critical environments. You will work across the full system lifecycle—from requirements development through system acceptance testing and Initial Operational Capability (IOC)—ensuring database solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned with overall system architecture. This role requires balancing performance, data volume, user access, and security requirements while delivering efficient and reliable data solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

Design, develop, implement, and maintain relational and/or object-oriented database systems
Develop database parser software and database loading mechanisms
Analyze user and system requirements to design effective database structures
Create, modify, and optimize complex queries, scripts, and macros for data manipulation and reporting
Translate data requirements into usable database solutions, including master data files and structured datasets
Support data flow analysis, information storage, and retrieval processes
Evaluate and recommend improvements for database performance, scalability, and reliability
Develop and maintain database schemas aligned with system architecture and operational needs
Perform trade-off analysis across data volumes, user loads, system distribution, response times, and retention policies
Implement database solutions using cloud-based methodologies and technologies
Utilize Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) and other integration methods to support system interoperability
Assist with database optimization, tuning, and performance monitoring
Support system testing, validation, and acceptance activities
Ensure compliance with security requirements, data protection standards, and domain controls
Collaborate with system engineers, developers, and stakeholders to align database solutions with mission needs

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Strong experience with relational databases (e.g., SQL-based systems) and/or object-oriented database design
Proficiency in writing and optimizing complex SQL queries, scripts, and stored procedures
Experience with database design, normalization, and data modeling techniques
Knowledge of database performance tuning, indexing, and optimization strategies
Experience working with large datasets and high-volume data environments
Familiarity with cloud-based database technologies and data storage solutions
Experience with data integration tools and protocols such as ODBC
Understanding of data security principles, access controls, and data governance
Ability to analyze system requirements and translate them into scalable database solutions
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in a technical discipline from an accredited college or university is required
Ten (10) years of experience as a Database Engineer (DBE) in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required
Five (5) additional years of relevant experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree
Experience supporting database solutions across the full system lifecycle, from requirements through system acceptance and deployment

Certifications:

DoD 8570.01-M compliance with Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level II is required

Clearance Requirement:

Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software:

At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.

When you join us, you will:

Support critical national security missions that matter
Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.

Apply today.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

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