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Computer Software Engineering Jobs in Arlington, VA

Senior Director, Software Engineering

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$255K/yr

Master's Degree in Computer Science or a Master's Degree in Software Engineering * 13+ years of experience in software engineering * 8+ years of experience in Agile practices * Experience leveraging ...

Senior Director, Software Engineering

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$255K/yr

Master's Degree in Computer Science or a Master's Degree in Software Engineering * 13+ years of experience in software engineering * 8+ years of experience in Agile practices * Experience leveraging ...

Software Engineer IV

Washington, DC ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Software Engineer IV - Position Description We anticipate future opportunities for a Software ... Examples include but are not limited to Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer ...

Senior Director, Software Engineering

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$314.80 - $359.30/hr

Master's Degree in Computer Science or a Master's Degree in Software Engineering * 13+ years of experience in software engineering * 8+ years of experience in Agile practices * Experience leveraging ...

Showing results 41-60

Computer Software Engineering information

See Arlington, VA salary details

$73.1K

$169.7K

$236.4K

How much do computer software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer software engineering in Arlington, VA is $169,720.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,100.00 and $199,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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. Software engineers often work in teams, follow project deadlines, 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 analyze user needs, write code using programming languages, and collaborate with teams to create efficient and reliable software solutions, often using tools like integrated development environments (IDEs) and version control systems.

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 popular job titles related to Computer Software Engineering jobs in Arlington, VA?

For Computer Software Engineering jobs in Arlington, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Software Engineering jobs in Arlington, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Software Engineering jobs in Arlington, VA are:

Infographic showing various Computer Software Engineering job openings in Arlington, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $169,720 per year, or $81.6 per hour.

Specialist, Software Engineering

L3Harris Technologies

Herndon, VA โ€ข On-site

$97K - $207K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Specialist, Software Engineer (C/C++)

Job Code: 39276

Job Location: Herndon, VA (On-Site)

Job Schedule: 9/80 Regular (Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off)

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing diverse, high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

About L3Harris Technologies:

L3Harris Technologies is an agile global aerospace and defense technology innovator, delivering end-to-end solutions that meet customers' mission-critical needs. The company provides advanced defense and commercial technologies across space, air, land, sea and cyber domains. L3Harris has approximately $18 billion in annual revenue and 47,000 employees, with customers in more than 100 countries.

Job Description:

The successful candidate will be based at our Herndon-VA office (onsite). We develop advanced sonar systems and support software that enables system control, data acquisition, and analysis. Work includes software requirements development, software test and integration, and both application level and embedded C/C++ development, including Linux based GUI and system control work. The role also involves UI and embedded software development for equipment operating in diverse environments such as factory, depot, laboratory, and shipboard settings.

Essential Functions:

  • Design and implement software using C/C++ on Linux, and embedded real time operating systems.
  • Execute assigned projects and tasks involving software design, documentation, verification, and validation for sonar systems.
  • Modify and enhance existing software for operational systems or test facilities.
  • Provide independent validation and verification of design concepts and implementation approaches.
  • Develop, test, and document software code, and support integration
  • Perform software configuration management to ensure all code reflects the current version and revision level.
  • Implement review and oversight procedures to evaluate design activities for compliance with customer requirements, company standards, engineering best practices, and quality system procedures.
  • Ensure assigned tasks meet technical, schedule, and quality requirements. Identify and report issues, recommending corrective actions or alternatives when cost or schedule risks are identified.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer / Electrical Engineering or equivalent and minimum 4 years of prior relevant experience. Or, Graduate Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience.
  • 4+ years of experience designing and implementing software in C/C++ languages.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Active Secret clearance.
  • QT IDE and UI Framework Experience.
  • Understanding of user interface (UI) elements, tools, and development techniques.
  • Experience in embedded software.
  • Strong analytical and communication skills.
  • Ability to interpret and clearly communicate engineering plans and specifications, with solid knowledge of engineering theory and design criteria.
  • Excellent general computer skills and ability to quickly learn new hardware and software applications.
  • Linux development experience.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role is $97,000 - $207,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

#LI-IK1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time