Junior Software Engineer, Python

Leawood, KS

Join a Mission That Matters

Torch.AI builds the government’s AI-native control layer—a foundational data and intelligence capability designed to give the United States enduring ownership over how knowledge is created, managed, and applied in mission-critical environments. Our vision is simple and profound: ensure the U.S.—not a vendor—operates its own AI infrastructure to make decisive, real-time operational decisions.

We work at the center of national security, helping agencies transform data into actionable knowledge across domains including information advantage, ISR, joint effects, force protection, and mission support. If you’re driven to build technology that strengthens U.S. defense readiness and protects national interests, Torch.AI offers an opportunity to make meaningful impact at national scale.

What It’s Like to Work Here

Torch.AI operates at the intersection of advanced AI, secure systems, and real-world operations. We solve complex, high-stakes problems by building scalable, modular technology that reduces cognitive burden, improves mission performance, and delivers timely, reliable, predictive intelligence.

Here, you’ll collaborate with a diverse team of engineers, data experts, veterans, and mission practitioners. You’ll have the autonomy to own meaningful work and the support of teammates who share context openly, challenge assumptions, and think creatively. Every day brings something different—early prototypes, production deployments, mission support, or scaling next-generation capabilities.

We’re a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where curiosity, adaptability, and a deep commitment to national security drive everything we do.

Responsibilities

  • Implement features in Python services using frameworks such as Flask or FastAPI, with guidance from more experienced engineers.
  • Develop, call, and test RESTful APIs; work with common data formats (JSON, Parquet) under supervision.
  • Contribute to debugging, testing, documentation, and sprint tasks.
  • Write basic SQL/NoSQL queries against systems like PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or Elasticsearch.
  • Follow version-control workflows (Git), participate in code reviews, and contribute to CI/CD pipelines as a learner.
  • Assist in ETL tasks, simple data transformations, and integrating external APIs.
  • Participate in Agile ceremonies and collaborate on platform development tasks

What We Value 

  • B.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, or related discipline.
  • 1+ years of Python development experience (internships and projects included).
  • Understanding of OOP, HTTP APIs, and JSON-based data handling.
  • Exposure to SQL/NoSQL databases and basic query writing.
  • Familiarity with Git, Agile processes, and core SDLC principles.
  • Interest in learning cloud environments (AWS/GCP/Azure).
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and collaborative mindset.
  • Interest in defense/intelligence work (not required).
  • Nice-to-have (not required):
    • Experience with Flask/FastAPI
    • Exposure to IAM/security or secure cloud environments
    • Awareness of CI/CD pipelines
    • Familiarity with tools like NiFi, Airflow, Avro, Parquet
    • Exposure to Kafka or streaming systems

Security Clearance

Some roles require an active SecretTop Secret, or Top Secret/SCI clearance. If you do not currently hold an active clearance but believe you may be eligible, we encourage you to apply as sponsorship is also available.

Work Location

We hire for roles at our headquarters in Leawood, KS, and for hybrid/remote positions in the Arlington, VA, Washington, DC, and Maryland (DMV) region. Some roles may require limited travel (<10%) to customer sites.

Incentives

  • Equity participation for all employees within the first 12 months
  • Competitive salary + quarterly performance bonus
  • Unlimited PTO + 11 paid company holidays
  • High-growth, mission-driven environment with significant professional development opportunities
  • Weekly in-office catering at HQ

Benefits

Torch.AI provides benefits that exceed regional and national benchmarks across multiple categories:

401(k)

  • Torch.AI provides participating employees with the option to enroll in a company-sponsored plan. Currently, Torch.AI does not provide matching. 

Medical

  • Three plan options: PPO, HSA, TRICARE Supplement
  • HSA contributions significantly above regional norms
  • Rare TRICARE Supplement offering (top ~18% of employers)

Spending Accounts

  • HSA, FSA, and Dependent Care FSA with high employer contributions and rollover flexibility

Dental

  • Plans with annual maximums up to 2.6× the national average

Vision

  • VSP Choice network with above-market frame allowances

Life Insurance

  • Employer-paid life insurance equal to 1× salary (substantial above-market coverage)

Disability & Illness

  • Top 10% regional coverage for STD and LTD (both employer paid)

Voluntary Benefits

  • Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity
  • Commuter benefits up to $300/month (tax-free)

Torch.AI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.

JOB CODE: 1000114