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Communication Protocol Software Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Shakopee, MN

Design, implement, and troubleshoot industrial communication protocols and network configurations ... Collaborate with software and hardware teams to integrate protocol stacks and validate performance.

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Communication Protocol Software Developer information

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$48K

$111.8K

$166K

How much do communication protocol software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for communication protocol software developer in the United States is $111,845.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Communication Protocol Software Developer vs Network Software Engineer?

AspectCommunication Protocol Software DeveloperNetwork Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; certifications like CCNA, CCNP beneficialBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Networking, or related; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDevelops and tests communication protocols, often in labs or development teamsDesigns and maintains network systems, working in data centers or enterprise environments
Industry UsageTelecommunications, embedded systems, IoT devicesIT infrastructure, enterprise networks, service providers
Common Search/ComparisonFocuses on protocol development and implementationFocuses on network design and optimization

While both roles involve networking and require similar technical skills, Communication Protocol Software Developers specialize in creating and testing communication protocols, whereas Network Software Engineers focus on designing and maintaining network infrastructure. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Communication Protocol Software Developer jobs?

For Communication Protocol Software Developer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Communication Protocol Software Developer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,845 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Network Protocol / Software Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

SG2 Recruiting (Wind RiverX)
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about SG2 Recruiting (Wind RiverX)external

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

SG2 Recruiting is supporting Wind RiverX in the search for a Senior Network Protocol / Software Engineer to support a classified aerospace and defense program in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This customer-facing technical leadership role combines hands-on protocol development with solution architecture, customer engagement, system integration, and deployment support. Candidates must possess an active Secret clearance, have 5+ years of network protocol and engineering experience.

What You Will Be Doing:

  • Designing, developing, and testing networking software and protocols for mission-critical aerospace and defense systems.

  • Supporting customer engagements including requirements gathering, solution architecture, implementation, testing, and deployment.

  • Developing and maintaining Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking capabilities for routers, gateways, and secure communications platforms.

  • Implementing and supporting protocols including IPv4, IPv6, ARP, ICMP, IGMP, DHCP, TCP, UDP, NTP, IPsec, and IKE.

  • Analyzing and optimizing Ethernet traffic, network performance, and protocol functionality.

  • Collaborating with engineering teams, mentoring developers, and creating technical documentation.

What You Need:

  • Active Secret security clearance.

  • 5+ years of experience developing networking protocols, networking software, or embedded networking solutions.

  • Strong knowledge of OSI Layers 2–7, with expertise in Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking.

  • Experience with network routers, gateways, Ethernet networking, and network security protocols.

  • Proficiency in C/C++ development within Linux or embedded environments.

  • Experience implementing or integrating IPv4, IPv6, and IPsec-based solutions.

  • Excellent communication skills and ability to interact directly with customers and technical stakeholders.

It's a Plus If You Have:

  • Experience supporting classified defense, aerospace, or military programs.

  • Familiarity with Neighbor Discovery (ND), VLANs, and advanced routing technologies.

  • Experience with real time operating systems (RTOS), embedded systems, or secure communications platforms.

What's In It For You:

  • Work on advanced aerospace and defense technologies supporting national security missions.

  • Influence the design and development of next-generation networking solutions.

  • Join a collaborative team focused on innovation, technical excellence, and customer success.

About the Company

Wind RiverX delivers advanced software and engineering solutions for mission-critical aerospace, defense, and intelligent edge systems, supporting some of the world's most demanding operational environments.


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