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Cleared Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ECS

Lead Software Developer (SME)

Washington, DC · On-site

$175K - $185K/yr

We are seeking a cleared Software Developer SME to provide expert-level software development, architecture, modernization, and technical leadership for complex mission applications supporting ...

General Atomics

Software Developer II

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

GA Intelligence is looking for a Cleared Software Engineer to join our Federal Portfolio in the National Tactical Department. National Tactical Software Engineering staff design, develop and deploy ...

T-Rex Solutions

Software Engineer 2

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

T-Rex Solutions is looking for a fully cleared Software Engineer 2 to join our dynamic team at Ft. Meade, MD in support of the Intelligence Community. We are seeking Software Engineer to support the ...

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Cleared Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do cleared software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for cleared software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 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.
More about Cleared Software Engineer jobs
What states have the most Cleared Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Cleared Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cleared Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cleared Software Engineer jobs are:
Cleared Software Engineer jobs near you
Software Developer (Embedded Systems) with Security Clearance

Software Developer (Embedded Systems) with Security Clearance

Zachary Piper Solutions, LLC

Kent, WA • On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Software Developer (Embedded Systems) to support an advanced aerospace program focused on next-generation space and flight technologies. This position is hybrid in Kent, WA (3 days onsite). The Software Developer (Embedded Systems) will design, develop, and integrate embedded software systems supporting space and satellite platforms.

This role directly contributes to mission-critical technology that will transition into flight units and satellite-based radio systems. Join a cutting-edge R&D team building the future of satellite communications, flight hardware, and software-defined radio (SDR) capabilities for national security missions. Responsibilities for the Software Developer (Embedded Systems) include: • Supporting code generation for highly embedded systems and FPGA-based platforms • Developing embedded C/C++ software targeting Linux/PetaLinux environments • Collaborating with multi-disciplinary engineering teams to prototype hardware solutions • Conducting hands-on hardware/software integration and validating execution on target processors • Contributing to open-architecture frameworks enabling dynamic algorithm updates on deployed radios Required Qualifications for the Software Developer (Embedded Systems) include: • 5+ years of experience with embedded programming using C/C++ in Linux or PetaLinux environments • Hands-on hardware/software integration experience with embedded processors • Exposure to FPGA environments, Board Support Packages (BSP), or SDR development • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or related discipline (Master's or PhD also accepted per experience requirements) • Active Top Secret clearance Compensation for the Software Developer (Embedded Systems) includes: • Salary Range: $140,000-$160,000 **depending on experience** • Full Benefits Package: PTO, Paid Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Tuition Reimbursement, Sick leave as required by law #LI-LT1 Keywords: embedded software engineer, embedded developer, C programmer, C++ programmer, Linux embedded, PetaLinux, FPGA, BSP, software-defined radio, SDR, aerospace software, satellite systems, Phantom Works, Boeing BDS, VxWorks, Verilog, hardware-software integration, cleared software engineer, Top Secret clearance jobs, Kent WA engineering jobs

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