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Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs

VTG

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Review contractor software plans, technical documentation, and deliverables for compliance and ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field

VTG

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$100K - $215K/yr

Review contractor software plans, technical documentation, and deliverables for compliance and ... include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range.

Mind Ware Inc

Jr. Java Software Engineer

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

Hiring for Jr. Java Software Engineer @ Scottsdale, AZ, USA for a contract position on W2 Our client, a leading federal defense contractor has an immediate, long-term contract opening for a Jr. Java ...

EXPANSIA

E01-C07 Software Engineer

Hollywood, MD

$100K - $180K/yr

The Software Engineer will contribute to the development and sustainment of advanced technology ... IC, or defense contractor programs). * Strong understanding of secure software development ...

EXPANSIA

E01-C07 Software Engineer

Hollywood, MD

$100K - $180K/yr

The Software Engineer will contribute to the development and sustainment of advanced technology ... IC, or defense contractor programs). * Strong understanding of secure software development ...

EXPANSIA

E01-C07 Software Engineer

Hollywood, MD · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

The Software Engineer will contribute to the development and sustainment of advanced technology ... IC, or defense contractor programs). * Strong understanding of secure software development ...

FishEye Software

Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$80K - $140K/yr

The NSITE team has in-depth experience in Tactical Data Links (TDL), Ballistic Missile Defense ... contractual rates. FishEye Software is proud to be recognized as one of the Boston Globe's Top ...

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All JobsContractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs

Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do contractual defense contractor software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual defense contractor 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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced defense contractors, such as senior software engineers or systems engineers working on specialized defense projects, can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with bonuses, profit sharing, or security clearances. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience in defense technology, cybersecurity, or aerospace engineering.

How much do CIA software engineers make?

CIA software engineers typically earn salaries comparable to federal government pay scales, often ranging from $80,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses for specialized skills like cybersecurity or cryptography.

Which military branch is best for software engineering?

The U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marine Corps all employ software engineers in various roles, often requiring security clearances and specialized technical skills. The Air Force and Navy are known for their advanced aerospace and naval systems, while the Army and Marines focus on battlefield technology and communications. Choosing a branch depends on your career interests, desired environment, and the opportunity to work with specific defense systems and tools.

What is the difference between Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer vs Defense Software Developer?

AspectContractual Defense Contractor Software EngineerDefense Software Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; security clearances often requiredBachelor's or higher in Computer Science; security clearances common
Work EnvironmentContract-based projects, often on-site or remote, for defense contractorsFull-time employment within defense agencies or contractors, often on military projects
Employer & Industry UsageDefense contracting firms, government agenciesMilitary, defense contractors, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentContractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer vs Defense Software Developer

The main difference is that Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineers work on a contractual basis for defense projects, often with temporary assignments and security clearances, while Defense Software Developers are typically employed full-time within defense agencies or firms, focusing on long-term development of defense systems.

How much do defense contractor engineers make?

Defense contractor software engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, security clearance, and location. Senior engineers with specialized skills or clearance can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses, health insurance, and retirement plans.
What cities are hiring for Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs include:
Contractual Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Software Engineer II (UAV Embedded)

Software Engineer II (UAV Embedded)

Kratos Defense

Roseville, CA

$95K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

ABOUT THE JOB

As an Software Engineer II (UAV Embedded), you will architect and implement mission-critical software for our next-generation UAV flight computers. The XQ-58, BQM-177, BQM-167, or MQM-178 unmanned aerial vehicles! You will be the primary link between complex flight algorithms and custom avionics hardware, developing high-performance C and C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. Working at the intersection of hardware and software, you will collaborate with electrical and GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers to design and implement complex physical-digital interactions with MATLAB/Simulink.


WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations.
  • Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.
  • Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports
  • Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to KUAS specifications

Compensation $95,000 - $125,000


REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Requires BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, or 7 YOE in lieu of BS degree.
  • 4 years of C or C++ programming experience
  • Demonstrated understanding of Object-Oriented programming principles and RTOS systems.
  • Demonstrated understanding of software development life-cycle and clearly document software requirements.
  • Hands on ability to troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop simulation modelling and make firmware updates

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Skills with tools such as Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, LabView
  • Skills implementing interface controls based on MBSE design documentation
  • Previous familiarity with OMS/UCI, A-GRA, STANAG 4586, DO-178C, AS910

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Office and or manufacturing environment.

• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.

• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10-key, phones).

• May work extended hours or weekends.

• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• 5-10% May be required between other KUAS locations.


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