Software Engineer

Machina Cognita Technologies

Point Loma, San Diego, California · Carlsbad, CaliforniaFull-time$120,000–$150,000Posted Oct 27, 2026

About the role

Machina Cognita Technologies is an R&D-driven company specializing in machine learning innovations for government, commercial, and educational applications. We embrace today’s most exciting machine learning challenges with technologies including uncrewed autonomous systems, large language models, realistic simulation environments, computer vision, and reinforcement learning.

We are looking for a Software Engineer who thrives on tackling complex problems and pushing the boundaries of new technologies. In this role, you’ll partner closely with clients to understand their pain points, conceptualize forward-thinking solutions, and collaborate with other engineers to bring your ideas to life. You’ll gain end-to-end exposure, expand your creative freedom, and hone a wide-ranging skillset as you contribute across the full software development life cycle.

This is a full-time, onsite role split between Point Loma and Carlsbad.

Required

An active DoW Secret security clearance is required for this role

Who You Are

Energized by open-ended technical challenges in early-stage product development

Turns failures into learning opportunities

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field

2-5 years of professional software development experience

Proficient in Python, JavaScript, and Bash

Proficient in command-line tooling and shell scripting

Proficient in containerization technologies such as Docker or Kubernetes

Experience with government and defense contracts (SBIR/STTR) or DoW end users is a plus

Strong communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills

Responsibilities

Build proof-of-concept prototypes and client demonstrations to win contract bids and drive new business opportunities

Design, develop, and launch new features, applications, and services

Contribute to system architecture and technical design discussions

Monitor system performance and identify and resolve issues to improve reliability

Develop and maintain APIs, integrations, and backend services

Run pilot implementations, troubleshoot issues, and drive resolution

Collaborate with product manager and engineers to translate client needs into innovative solutions

Travel to client destinations to facilitate product delivery and provide ongoing support and optimization

Compensation

Compensation is based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, ability, education, certifications, specialized skills, business needs, and scope and responsibilities of the position. The estimated range for this role is $120,000-$150,000.

Benefits

Safe Harbor 401(k) with 4% employer match

Health, dental, and vision insurance with 99% employer contribution towards employee premiums

Flexible work hours + inclusive PTO policy to support work-life balance

Onsite gym

Professional development reimbursement for continual learning

Freedom to explore, create, play, and problem-solve while receiving support and guidance from senior leaders

Every engineer, at every level, has a voice in what projects we pursue and how we accomplish our technical goals

Machina Cognita Technologies does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, or other non-merit factors. We recognize and appreciate the value of a diverse workforce and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Responsibilities

  • Build proof-of-concept prototypes and client demonstrations to support contract bids and new business.
  • Design, develop, and launch features, applications, and services.
  • Contribute to system architecture and technical design.
  • Monitor system performance and resolve reliability issues.
  • Develop and maintain APIs, integrations, and backend services.
  • Run pilot implementations, troubleshoot issues, and drive resolution.
  • Collaborate with product managers and engineers to turn client needs into solutions.
  • Travel to client sites for product delivery and ongoing support.

Qualifications

  • Active DoW Secret security clearance.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
  • 2–5 years of professional software development experience.
  • Proficiency in Python, JavaScript, Bash, command-line tools, and shell scripting.
  • Proficiency with containerization technologies such as Docker or Kubernetes.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
  • Experience with government or defense contracts, SBIR/STTR, or DoW end users is a plus.

Benefits

  • Safe Harbor 401(k) with 4% employer match.
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance with 99% employer contribution toward employee premiums.
  • Flexible work hours and inclusive PTO.
  • Onsite gym.
  • Professional development reimbursement.
  • Opportunity to influence project selection and technical goals.

Skills mentioned

PythonJavaScriptShell ScriptingDockerKubernetesBackend DevelopmentREST APIsAPI IntegrationSystem DesignDebugging