Lead Software / Release Train Engineer (TS/SCI)

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Lead Software Engineer / Release Train Engineer (RTE) to support the Department of the Air Force Integrated Fires Command and Control (DIFC2) program. This role serves as a senior Agile delivery leader, responsible for coordinating execution across multiple teams, facilitating planning and delivery events, and ensuring alignment between product vision, system architecture, and mission outcomes. The position supports the Horizon program and works closely with Space Systems Command and government stakeholders to mature and transition mission-critical Space Command and Control capabilities.

Work Environment:

On-site in Reston, VA supporting a classified Air Force program with close collaboration across government, architecture, and engineering teams.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as the Release Train Engineer (RTE) for the Agile Release Train (ART), enabling consistent execution across multiple teams.
• Facilitate key SAFe ceremonies including PI Planning, ART Sync/Scrum of Scrums, PO Sync, System Demos, and Inspect & Adapt events.
• Drive Agile execution by managing risks, dependencies, impediments, and delivery cadence.
• Stand up and mature Agile teams and ARTs, establishing operating rhythms, team roles, tools, and working agreements.
• Partner closely with Product Management and System/Enterprise Architects to align priorities, capacity, technical runway, and quality.
• Support teams transitioning from waterfall or hybrid models to scaled Agile delivery.
• Promote transparency into program progress, delivery metrics, risks, and outcomes.
• Foster continuous improvement through retrospectives, metrics, and incremental process improvements.
• Act as a trusted advisor to government leadership and technical stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with 14+ years of experience; or Master's degree with 12+ years; or PhD/JD with 9+ years of relevant experience.
• 6+ years of experience leading Agile software delivery in roles such as Release Train Engineer, Scrum Master, Agile Program Manager, or similar.
• Experience supporting DoD or SAP/SCI programs or other highly regulated mission environments.
• Strong background facilitating Agile planning, execution, and delivery across multiple teams.
• Hands-on experience with SAFe and Agile delivery practices and metrics.
• Active Top Secret clearance required with SCI eligibility and willingness to consent to a polygraph.

Preferred:

• SAFe RTE, SAFe SSM/SASM, PMI-ACP, PMP, or similar Agile certification.
• Strong systems-thinking mindset and experience improving delivery flow and predictability.
• Metrics-driven leader with experience using Agile and Lean indicators for continuous improvement.
• Proven ability to coach Scrum Masters, Product Owners, and delivery teams.
• Strong communication skills with experience briefing senior technical and program leadership.

Compensation:

• Pay range: $170,000 - $210,000 (Based on years of relevant experience)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k, paid time off, federal holidays, and sick leave.

Application Period: Opens on 03/19/2026 and will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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