Forward Deployed Engineer

Forward Deployed Engineer is the fastest-growing job title in tech - and you don't need AI experience to become one. SkillStorm hires working software developers, trains them as AI engineers, and deploys them to federal and enterprise clients in the DC area. Paid from day one, including training.

Why this role, why now

• FDE job postings grew more than 700% year-over-year, while the pool of qualified candidates grew only a fraction of that. Companies can't find these engineers - so we build them.
• Experienced Forward Deployed Engineers average $170K+ base salary nationally. This program is the fastest on-ramp to that trajectory.
• Firms like Deloitte, Accenture, KPMG, and the federal government's largest consulting partners are all racing to staff this role. That's exactly where SkillStorm deploys.
• Build and deploy agentic AI applications inside the client's cloud environment
• Own delivery of a client-facing capability end to end - from problem framing through deployment and handoff
• Work embedded with client engineers and stakeholders inside their environment, tooling, and constraints
• Translate ambiguous business needs into scoped specifications and defensible architecture
• Apply AI-assisted development tooling to accelerate delivery and build AI-enabled capability where it fits the client mission
• Set patterns other engineers follow: reference implementations, coding standards, review practices
• Brief client stakeholders on progress, tradeoffs, and risk; produce documentation that outlives the engagement
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, information systems, MIS, IT, or related STEM discipline
• 2 years of W2 technical experience required - software development, application engineering, systems integration, or technical consulting
• Strong experience with API development and software programming using Java/J2EE, .NET/C#, JavaScript/Node.js, or Python
• Experience designing and consuming REST and SOAP integrations using Spring Boot, .NET Core Web API, Express, Flask, or similar
• Strong SQL and relational database skills (Oracle, Postgres, SQL Server) and understanding of data modeling and normalization
• Experience delivering in Agile/Scrum environments using Jira, Azure DevOps, or similar
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for client-facing work; consulting experience a plus
• Must be able to work hybrid on-site in Tysons Corner, VA (Washington DC metro)
• Legally authorized to work in the U.S. under SkillStorm's W2; not a C2C position
• Nice to have: DevOps, CI/CD, cloud platforms, web UI development, test automation, or exposure to AI coding tools (Copilot, Claude, Cursor) - AI experience is not required; we train you
• Paid, enterprise-level AI engineering training and certification - you earn while you learn
• Deployment to Fortune 100 companies and federal agencies
• Health, Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance with 401K
• Continuous mentorship and support throughout your deployment

Who should apply

This role was built for working software developers ready to move into AI. If you're currently a Java Developer, Full Stack Developer, .NET/C# Developer, Software Engineer, Backend or API Developer, Application Developer, Systems Integration Engineer, or Technical Consultant with at least 2 years of hands-on W2 development experience - you already have the foundation. We provide the AI engineering training. You don't need AI experience to apply; you need to be a solid developer who wants to become the engineer companies can't find.

What you'll do

After 6 weeks of paid, team-based AI engineering training on real-world projects, you'll deploy to our government and enterprise clients ready to have an impact on day one:

Requirements

Security clearance

U.S. citizenship and eligibility for a Secret security clearance required. Already hold an active Secret or Top Secret clearance? You're exactly who we're looking for - cleared developers and transitioning veterans with software experience move to the front of the line. Don't have one yet? If you're clearance-eligible, we'll guide you through the process.

Compensation

Earn between $95,000 and $120,000 your first year. Plus full benefits and 401K. Market data puts experienced Forward Deployed Engineers at $170K+ average base - this program is your fastest on-ramp to that trajectory, with compensation that grows with certifications and deployments.

Where SkillStorm stands out

About SkillStorm

Founded in 2002, SkillStorm was built on the mission of accelerating careers in high-demand technologies. We build customer-ready technology workforces for top Fortune 100 companies, government, and system integrators within the U.S. Through collaboration with our software partners and customers, we create and advance purpose-built technology experts with the custom tech stacks, clearances, certifications, and location requirements of our clients. As a result, our clients realize their business initiatives faster with Day-One effective technology teams at scale.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. EOE, including disability/vets.