Senior Python Lead Developer (Remote with meetings in Washington, DC)

Booker DiMaio is seeking a Senior Python Lead Developer to support a federal application modernization initiative for a Congressional document processing environment. This role will lead the design and implementation of enterprise Python-based middleware and API services to replace legacy OpenVMS/DCL-based processing systems. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in Python-based backend architecture, modern API development, and secure, scalable system design within Agile and DevSecOps environments.

This position supports the modernization of mission-critical document processing workflows and the transition to a centralized Python-based middleware platform and unified client application. The work is primarily remote with periodic onsite engagement in the Washington, DC area. Candidates must be eligible for Public Trust clearance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, design, and development of enterprise-grade Python applications supporting legacy system modernization
• Design and implement scalable middleware services and RESTful APIs using FastAPI, Django, Flask, or equivalent frameworks
• Develop and oversee Python-based backend services supporting file processing pipelines, workflow automation, and system integration
• Lead modernization efforts replacing legacy OpenVMS/DCL-based processing with Python-based services and microservices architecture
• Establish engineering standards, conduct code reviews, and mentor development team members
• Collaborate with government stakeholders, technical leads, and product owners to define technical direction and delivery priorities
• Participate in Agile Scrum ceremonies including sprint planning, standups, reviews, and retrospectives
• Support CI/CD pipeline implementation, automated testing strategies, and DevSecOps integration practices
• Ensure solutions comply with federal security, auditability, and accessibility requirements (including Section 508 where applicable)
• Support integration with legacy systems and external interfaces including file-based and API-driven workflows
• Troubleshoot complex production issues and drive performance tuning and system optimization
• Produce technical documentation including architecture diagrams, design specifications, and implementation guides

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Prior government experience
• 7+ years of professional software development experience in enterprise environments
• Strong hands-on experience with Python 3.x
• Proven experience with FastAPI, Django, Flask, or similar Python frameworks
• Demonstrated experience designing and building RESTful APIs and backend middleware services
• Experience working in Agile/Scrum delivery environments
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices
• Experience serving in a senior technical lead or team lead capacity
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Public Trust clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience modernizing legacy systems, particularly file-based or batch processing environments
• Experience with OpenAPI/Swagger documentation standards
• Cloud experience (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform)
• Containerization experience (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Python Institute certifications (PCEP, PCAP, or PCPP) strongly preferred

Work Environment

• Primarily remote with occasional onsite meetings in the Washington, DC area
• Support Agile delivery cycles and government-led technical direction
• Standard business hours with flexibility based on program needs