Networking Simulation Software Developer

At IST we're building intelligent networking infrastructure for environments where failure isn't an option. We're small, we move fast, and we care deeply about the technical depth of our work. If you want to own problems end to end and build something that matters, read on.

We're an early-stage startup building mesh networking infrastructure for contested, dynamic environments — satellites, drones, tactical communications. We don't build things that have been built before.

This is not a maintenance role. It's an opportunity for engineers who want to own hard problems end to end and have direct influence on product direction. If you're adaptable, collaborative, and energized by the challenge of building something from the ground up alongside a small, highly motivated team, we want to hear from you.

About the Role

You'll be a core contributor to IST's Mesh Network Simulator — a discrete-event simulation environment designed to model dynamic, contested network topologies including satellite constellations, drone swarms, and tactical radio networks. This is scientific Python work at the systems level, not scripting or web development. You'll be building the simulation engine that validates IST's mesh state synchronization software by modeling real-world network conditions including link quality variation, node mobility, propagation delay, and topology change.

Qualifications

Required

• Python (strong, scientific/engineering computing)

• Network simulation or emulation experience

• Graph modeling and dynamic topology representation (NetworkX or similar)

• Statistical modeling of link quality, latency, and packet loss

• Simulation event loop design (discrete event simulation)

• Data collection, metrics instrumentation, and results analysis

• Scientific Python stack (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, Matplotlib)

• Version control (Git)

• 10+ years software development experience

Desired

• ns-3, OMNeT++, or OPNET/Riverbed Modeler experience

• Satellite constellation modeling or orbital mechanics familiarity

• LEO/pLEO network simulation (Starlink-style dynamic topologies)

• RF propagation modeling and link budget concepts

• Mobility modeling for aerial or maritime platforms

• Visualization of dynamic network state (real-time or replay)

• Prior DoD, aerospace, or defense software experience

• Familiarity with STK or GMAT

• Docker or containerization for reproducible simulation environments

Compensation and Details

This is a temporary, part-time exempt position based on approximately 25 hours per week. Starting salary range is $2000-$3500 per week dependent upon qualifications and experience, paid on a regular payroll cycle. Workload will naturally ebb and flow with sprint cycles.

IST anticipates hiring for this position upon contract award, expected September 2026. Offers are contingent upon funding authorization.

This position requires U.S. citizenship. Candidates must be currently residing in the United States. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.