Government agencies require robust, secure, and scalable web applications to support their operations and provide services to the public. A Web Software Developer plays a crucial role in building, maintaining, and enhancing web-based systems that meet federal security, accessibility, and compliance standards.
What does a Web Software Developer do on Government Contracts?
A Web Software Developer working on government contracts is responsible for designing, developing, and deploying web applications that serve federal, state, and local agencies. They work with government stakeholders, IT teams, and security specialists to ensure applications meet operational requirements. Key responsibilities include:
- Developing & Maintaining Web Applications: Writing, testing, and debugging code for secure and high-performance web applications.
- Ensuring Security & Compliance: Implementing cybersecurity best practices and ensuring compliance with NIST, FedRAMP, and FISMA regulations.
- Optimizing Performance: Ensuring web applications are efficient, scalable, and meet government performance benchmarks.
- Integrating Databases & APIs: Connecting web applications to secure government databases and third-party systems.
- Collaborating with UX/UI Designers & Project Teams: Working with designers and project managers to create user-friendly applications that meet accessibility standards such as Section 508 and WCAG 2.1.
Web Software Developer Job Description
A Web Software Developer on government contracts is responsible for designing, coding, and maintaining web-based applications that support government services and operations. The role requires expertise in programming languages, cybersecurity protocols, and government compliance requirements.
- Developing, testing, and maintaining secure web applications for government agencies.
- Writing clean, efficient, and well-documented code using JavaScript, Python, Java, .NET, or PHP.
- Ensuring compliance with government security standards such as FedRAMP, NIST 800-53, and FISMA.
- Optimizing applications for scalability, speed, and accessibility (Section 508 compliance).
- Collaborating with government IT teams, UX/UI designers, and project managers to meet agency needs.
- Debugging and troubleshooting issues to maintain system reliability.
Job Requirements for a Web Software Developer
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Proficiency in front-end and back-end development using languages such as JavaScript (React, Angular, or Vue), Python, Java, .NET, PHP, or Ruby on Rails.
- Experience with database management systems (SQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB).
- Knowledge of secure coding practices and government security frameworks (FedRAMP, NIST, FISMA).
- Experience with cloud platforms (AWS GovCloud, Microsoft Azure Government, Google Cloud).
- Familiarity with DevSecOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, and version control (Git).
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Understanding of accessibility standards (Section 508, WCAG 2.1) for web applications.
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
- 3-7 years of experience in web software development, preferably in a government or enterprise setting.
- Experience with government software development frameworks and regulations is a plus.
- Certifications such as Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP), AWS Certified Developer, or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer are beneficial.
WORKSPACE/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Primarily remote or office-based work with extended screen time.
- Occasional on-site work at government facilities for project meetings or security reviews.
What does a typical job posting look like for a Web Software Developer?
Job Posting Example:
“We are seeking a Web Software Developer to design and implement secure, scalable web applications for a federal agency. The ideal candidate will have experience in full-stack development, government security compliance, and cloud-based environments.“
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Develop and maintain secure web applications using JavaScript, Python, Java, or .NET.
- Ensure all applications comply with FedRAMP, NIST 800-53, and FISMA security guidelines.
- Optimize application performance, scalability, and accessibility compliance (Section 508, WCAG 2.1).
- Work with cloud services such as AWS GovCloud, Azure Government, or Google Cloud.
- Collaborate with government stakeholders to define software requirements and features.
Salary Range
The salary for a Web Software Developer on government contracts typically ranges from $85,000 to $140,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and security clearance level.