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Cleared Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Software Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Please do not apply if you do not meet these conditions. 10novate is seeking a cleared Software Test Engineer to join our Team. If you hold a Secret security clearance and are interested in entering ...

Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$101K - $195K/yr

This position is a development position on a cleared program supporting a production product, and ... Software Engineer Level : Intermediate Software Engineer to Senior Software Engineer Education ...

Software Engineer Location: Remote / Alexandria, VA Clearance ... Active TS/SCI or eligibility to be cleared GeoDelphi, Inc. dba Whitespace is building Iris, a trust ...

Northstrat has opportunities for Cleared Software professionals at all experience levels. We are ... Northstrat Software Engineers work on highly talented teams focused on mission critical software ...

Northstrat has opportunities for Cleared Software professionals at all experience levels. We are ... Northstrat Software Engineers work on highly talented teams focused on mission critical software ...

Northstrat has opportunities for Cleared Software professionals at all experience levels. We are ... Northstrat Software Engineers work on highly talented teams focused on mission critical software ...

We are seeking a TS/SCI with Polygraph cleared Software Developer who will leverage their development skills and experience to support the successful ingestion, cleansing, transformation, loading ...

Showing results 21-40

Cleared Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

How much do cleared software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for cleared software engineer in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges cleared software engineers face when working on classified projects?

Cleared Software Engineers often encounter challenges related to strict security protocols and limited access to information when working on classified projects. These restrictions can impact collaboration and require careful adherence to documentation and communication guidelines. Additionally, the need for government clearances can lengthen onboarding times, and engineers may work in secure facilities with restricted internet or device use. However, these challenges are balanced by the unique opportunity to contribute to national security and work on cutting-edge technology alongside highly skilled teams.

What is the difference between Cleared Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectCleared Software EngineerSoftware Developer
CredentialsSecurity clearance (e.g., Top Secret, TS/SCI)Typically no security clearance required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, secure facilitiesPrivate sector, tech companies, startups
Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, intelligenceTechnology, finance, healthcare
Search & ComparisonOften compared for security clearance requirements and government projectsMore general software development roles

The main difference is that a Cleared Software Engineer requires security clearance and works primarily on government or defense projects, whereas a Software Developer typically does not need clearance and works across various industries. The cleared role involves additional security protocols but shares core programming skills with standard software development roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cleared software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cleared Software Engineer, you need strong programming abilities, software development experience, and an active security clearance such as Secret or Top Secret. Familiarity with secure coding practices, version control systems (like Git), and specialized tools for government or defense projects is often required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and navigate complex, high-stakes environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the development of secure, reliable software that meets strict regulatory and security standards.

What is a cleared software engineer?

A Cleared Software Engineer is a software developer who has obtained a security clearance, typically to work on projects involving sensitive or classified information for government agencies or contractors. These professionals design, develop, test, and maintain software systems while adhering to strict security protocols. Security clearances can vary in level, such as Confidential, Secret, or Top Secret, and are granted after thorough background checks. Cleared Software Engineers are essential for organizations that handle national security or defense projects, ensuring that only trusted individuals have access to protected information.
What are popular job titles related to Cleared Software Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Cleared Software Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cleared Software Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cleared Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Cleared Software Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $146,258 per year, or $70.3 per hour.

Software Test Engineer

10novate, Inc.

Arlington, VA • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Please read: Candidates for this position must meet eligibility criteria for access and require a current, active Secret security clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required. Please do not apply if you do not meet these conditions.
10novate is seeking a cleared Software Test Engineer to join our Team. If you hold a Secret security clearance and are interested in entering the software technology field or growing your skills and capabilities, 10novate has the ideal opportunity for you. The most successful candidate will bring a minimum of four years’ experience testing the broad spectrum of information technology operations—from business applications to infrastructure systems—within multiple platforms (client/server and cloud).

This position involves the full range of testing (exploratory, smoke, functional, performance, regression, acceptance) using both manual and automated testing techniques. It supports a meaningful government program that contributes to the greater human good. This position allows you to grow your capabilities by learning from our other highly skilled staff members in a fast-paced environment and interfacing with end-users as well as software development teams.


Work is hybrid/remote with 2 days/week on-site work performed in Arlington, VA in a very collaborative work environment. Please do not apply if you live outside the DMV area.


Responsibilities:

  • Develop new and update existing software test cases to include test acceptance criteria (requires analytical abilities)
  • Peer review of test cases, provide feedback and updates as needed
  • Execute test cases
  • Document test findings (bugs, change requests, etc.) (requires detail orientation)
  • Provide manual testing, mobile testing, load testing and regression testing in support of the system
  • Work with software developers to address and resolve bugs/issues (requires a strong collaborative spirit)
  • Build an understanding of functionality of the system and the requirements within the user stories
  • Assist in preparing test deliverables
  • Assist, as needed, in other functional areas of the project including mentoring others on the team.


Qualifications:

  • Minimum 4 years’ testing experience in information technology
  • Experience with client/server and web-based applications in Microsoft Windows, Oracle, and SalesForce environments
  • Experience with ACCELQ and other automated test tools desired.
  • Experience setting up test data using SQL desired.
  • A bachelor’s degree is preferred.
  • Experience working within an agile environment preferred.
  • Knowledge of steps toward advancing automated test maturity within the operation.
  • Active U.S. Department of War (formerly DoD) Secret security clearance


AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, creed, ancestry, marital status, non-job-related handicap or disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Company Description

10novate develops management and technology solutions that deliver measurable improvement in government performance and value.