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Computer Software Engineering Jobs in Pennsylvania

Required : • Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related scientific field. • Experience or understanding of software engineering processes and project/program execution. • Knowledge ...

$109K - $163K/yr

Determines systems software design requirements. Ensures that system improvements are successfully ... Bachelor's degree related discipline such as Computer Science, Business, Data Science, Engineering ...

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Computer Software Engineering information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$63.7K

$147.9K

$206K

How much do computer software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer software engineering in Pennsylvania is $147,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,300.00 and $173,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computer software engineering?

Computer software engineering is a branch of engineering focused on designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications and systems. Software engineers use programming languages, engineering principles, and problem-solving skills to create software that meets user needs. They often work on everything from mobile apps to large-scale enterprise systems, collaborating with other engineers, designers, and stakeholders. The field requires continuous learning due to rapidly evolving technologies and methodologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer software engineer?

To thrive as a Computer Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and a solid foundation in computer science, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with development tools, integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems like Git, and sometimes certifications in specific languages or frameworks are important. Excellent teamwork, communication, and adaptability help engineers collaborate effectively and respond to evolving project needs. These skills ensure the successful design, implementation, and maintenance of reliable, efficient software solutions.

What are some common challenges computer software engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

Computer software engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with cross-functional teams, managing complex codebases, and ensuring consistent documentation. Navigating these challenges requires strong communication skills, effective use of version control systems, and familiarity with agile methodologies. Additionally, engineers must balance meeting project deadlines with maintaining code quality and adapting to evolving requirements, making time management and adaptability crucial skills in this role.

What is the difference between Computer Software Engineering vs Computer Software Development?

AspectComputer Software EngineeringComputer Software Development
CredentialsBachelor's in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; certifications like Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP)Bachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related; certifications less common
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and managing software projects; often involved in system architectureWriting, testing, and debugging code; focused on creating software applications
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by tech companies, consulting firms, and large organizations for complex projectsCommon across startups, tech firms, and software companies for product development

While both roles involve software creation, Computer Software Engineering emphasizes designing and managing software systems, whereas Computer Software Development focuses on coding and implementing software solutions. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are computer software engineering jobs?

Computer software engineering jobs involve designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications and systems. These roles typically require knowledge of programming languages, software development methodologies, and tools like version control systems. Professionals in this field often work in teams, follow coding standards, and may hold certifications such as Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP).

What do computer software engineers do?

Computer software engineers design, develop, test, and maintain software applications and systems. They use programming languages, development tools, and software engineering principles to create solutions that meet user needs and technical specifications.
Infographic showing various Computer Software Engineering job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,878 per year, or $71.1 per hour.

AI and Software Engineering Research Scientist - Edge Software S with Security Clearance

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Software Engineering Institute
1 - 5K employees

$199K/yr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop, mature, and prototype AI and edge software technologies and transition them to government and industry organizations.

  • Apply research and development efforts to address complex technical challenges in tactical edge and AI-enabled systems, including environments with degraded, disconnected, or limited connectivity.

  • Represent technical work with customers, stakeholders, and the academic community, and advance the TAS research agenda in areas such as Edge AI, Edge Intelligence, and Edge-to-Cloud continuum.


Job description

What We Do: The SEI's Tactical Edge and AI-Enabled Systems (TAS) initiative advances and transitions AI and edge software capabilities with a focus on production-readiness of AI and edge systems and components. Examples include supporting small units operating in difficult edge environments that are often disconnected from enterprise computing infrastructure, such as tactical autonomy, first responders, space, and avionics systems. A natural outcome of our work is the advancement and transition of software engineering tools, methods, and approaches to enable production-readiness of AI systems and components. Position Summary: As an AI and Software Engineering Research Scientist in the TAS Initiative you will develop, mature, and prototype technologies, and transition these technologies to government and industry organizations. You will directly develop and apply work with customers, balancing short-term customer needs with long-term goals of solving complex technical challenges within the development of `tactical edge and AI-enabled systems. You will represent technical work with customers, stakeholders, and the academic community, while advancing the TAS research agenda in edge software systems, in areas such as: * Edge AI in DDIL (degraded, disconnected, intermittent, limited) environments
* Edge Intelligence
* Edge-to-Cloud continuum
* UaX-Edge collaboration
* Software engineering for AI-enabled systems, including agentic AI systems As part of the AI-native Software Engineering (AISE) directorate you will also be a part of the AISE Lab, advancing and learning about the state-of-the-art in AI-assisted tools and processes that are changing the practice of software engineering. Requirements: * PhD in computer science, software engineering, machine learning, or related discipline
* Two (2) or more years of full-time professional experience engineering edge software systems in a research environment, or eight (8) or more years of demonstrated experience leading the development and transition of innovative software engineering techniques into operational practice
* Strong empirical research skills
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
Desired Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Development and deployment of edge software systems, or systems with similar technical challenges, into operational environments
* Ability to communicate research outcomes, demonstrated by a publication record which includes relevant top-tier venues in software engineering and AI
* Development of successful research proposals
* Excellent analytical, problem solving, and interpersonal skills
* Ability to work in teams with a variety of technical and organizational skills
Other Requirements: * Flexible to travel to sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings (~10% travel).
* Able and willing to work onsite at the SEI office in Pittsburgh, 5 days per week.
* You will be subject to a background investigation and must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Department of War) security clearance.
. Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Software/Applications Development/Engineering
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Salary
More Information: * Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
* Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
* Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .
* Statement of Assurance