Computer Science Development Program at the National Security Agency

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Computer Science Development Program

The Computer Science Development Program (CDP) provides a tremendous opportunity for entry-level Computer Scientists to work full-time with world-class technical leaders to develop their skills while earning a salary. Your work in the program will help the agency achieve both our defensive and offensive missions in cyberspace.

About the Program
To advance the development of Computer Science, The National Security Agency (NSA) has created a new Computer Science Development Program (CDP) and is seeking to hire full-time, talented computer scientists to participate. Participants of this three-year program will have rotational operational assignments, and lab/classroom training, which will enable them to understand the breadth of computer science disciplines including computer network operations, architecture and systems, knowledge discovery, and information technology infrastructure, as well as depth of knowledge in one of these disciplines. The CDP participants will work in teams with each other and with NSA technical leaders to solve current and future challenging (either due to size, complexity or both) computer system problems.

By working in the CDP program, you will earn a salary and once the program is complete, you will be able to choose from various computer science positions available within NSA.

Program Requirements
Participants of the CDP will be required to perform the following during the course of completing their three-year program:

Classroom/Lab Training - This consists of a prescribed set of required courses with and without lab training.
Communication - Technical reports, monthly notes, and monthly meetings are required for all CDP participants.
On-the-Job-Training - Operational tours round out the training development.

Salary and Benefits NSA offers an incredible benefits package, competitive salary, and flexible work hours.

Qualifications
Ideal candidates should possess a bachelor's degree in Computer Science (master's or Ph.D. graduates will also be considered) and have coursework and/or experience with most of the following:

Operating Systems
Compiler Theory
Algorithm Analysis
Computer Architecture
Programming Language Theory
Data Structures
Math (as required for above coursework)
Demonstrated examples of problem solving, leadership, and teaming

To be considered for the CDP, you must submit all educational transcripts and at least two letters of recommendation from faculty members familiar with your technical work.

How to Apply
NSA has a rigorous application process for all applicants. All applicants must submit a resume to NSA using our online application system. If your qualifications meet our needs for a specific career opportunity, you will be contacted by an NSA recruiter.

U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants. A security clearance must be granted prior to employment and you will be required to undergo extensive pre-employment processing. This includes: aptitude testing, an interview with a psychologist, a security interview conducted with the aid of a polygraph, and a personnel interview. The final stage of the processing will be the successful completion of a background investigation.