Associate Software Engineer Jobs in El Cajon, CA

About The Role: Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking an Associate Software Engineer to be part of our Integrated Mission Systems team and based out of our San Diego, CA location. The Associate Software Engineer will design, build, test, and deliver innovative, secure, and fully integrated software solutions. The Associate Software Engineer must work with customers, supervisors and peers to understand and flow-down high-level user requirements, develop and test functional components and integrated solutions to deliver robust end items for the customer. Clearance & Location Requirements: * All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
* This is an on-site position. Requiring at least 4-5 days in office, based out of our San Diego, CA location. What You Will Do: * Product Development: Design, develop, integrate, test, and troubleshoot software components using established programming languages and tools. Contribute to the documentation of software architectures, processes, procedures, and techniques required to operate and sustain delivered solutions.
* Scopes & Understands Requirements: Work with engineers, team leads, and stakeholders to understand high-level user requirements and assist in flowing those requirements into functional software components and integrated solutions that meet customer needs.
* Team Collaboration: Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including software, systems, integration, information, production, and test engineers to understand system workflows, front-end and back-end features, and overall system architecture.
* Adheres to Engineering Standards: Apply industry best practices and organizational standards related to security, reliability, and performance. Follow established programming paradigms, interpret and apply DoD and industry standards, and participate in peer reviews, configuration reviews, design reviews, and performance reviews.
* Applies Common Tools & DevOps Practices: Assist with building, maintaining, and troubleshooting CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins). Support the integration of internally developed, third-party, or open-source software into containerized and orchestrated environments.
* Containerization & Integration Support: Assist in configuring, adapting, and validating software components to operate within container runtime environments (e.g., Docker/OCI) and Kubernetes-based systems. Support integration with internal systems and third-party applications.
* Automation & Configuration Management: Contribute to scripting and automation efforts to support deployment, configuration management, testing, and system sustainment activities under the guidance of senior engineers.
* Testing & Quality Assurance: Participate in software test and integration activities, applying best engineering practices and established test methodologies to ensure software quality, reliability, and performance. Who You Are (Required): * Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Mathematics, or Aeronautical Engineering or equivalent full-time professional experience.
*  Ability to travel up to 15% of the time as needed * Familiarity with the software development lifecycle and process
* Experience using Git or similar version control systems
* Familiarity or working knowledge with several of the following:
* C++, Python, Java or JavaScript programming languages
* Basic understanding of container concepts (Docker/OCI images, containers, registries)
* SQL and relational databases (e.g., Postgres)
* Linux-based systems command-line usage and file/system permissions  * React or similar modern frontend frameworks 
* Interest in learning system integration concepts and working beyond strictly writing code
* Strong problem-solving skills and eagerness to learn in a team environment What Makes You Stand Out: * Experience with cloud computing, virtualization, or containerization technologies * Understanding of networking concepts and protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, DNS)
* Exposure to virtualization technologies (VMware)
* Experience with working with APIs or third-party services
* Experience with scripting for automation (Groovy, Python, Bash, PowerShell)
* Experience with big data solutions (e.g. Hadoop, Spark, Kafka, Cassandra)
* Experience with machine learning and/or artificial intelligence * Experience performing test and integration, applying best engineering practices, and executing test methodologies. If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network. Pay Range*: $72,000 - $114,450 *Pursuant to California Senate Bill 1162 and New Jersey Senate Bill 2310, IDT is required to disclose the “pay scale” or “pay range” associated with a job posting. Notably, however, this amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. Click here for additional information about California Senate Bill 1162. Click here for additional information about New Jersey Senate Bill 2310. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience. About Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) Leveraging advanced software automation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI-driven capabilities, IDT accelerates capability development, enhances operational readiness, and reduces lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense. We are dedicated to transforming defense systems through innovation, efficiency, and mission-critical results. At IDT, our employees are developing advanced mission-critical outcomes by consistently delivering high-quality results, fostering innovation, applying rigorous problem-solving, and communicating effectively across multifaceted teams and stakeholders. Grounded in these competencies, IDT translates complex customer and product requirements into robust software solutions. Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including: * Generous benefits package
* Competitive PTO
* Paid holidays
* 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
* 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
* Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
* Professional Development Resources
* Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
* Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
* Annual Employee Recognition Awards
* Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches EEO Statement: IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.