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Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Defense Software Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

... defense contractors years to develop. You'll tackle problems spanning core software engineering ... system deployment, hardware integration, and everything in between to ensure mission success. This ...

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

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft ... ABOUT THE JOB As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will architect and implement mission-critical ...

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$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

Sr. Software Engineer Jobs

Colorado Springs, CO · Hybrid

$120K - $159K/yr

... scale defense acquisition program (ACAT I/II) and working in a multi-contractor environment ... Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. Additional ...

Software Engineer JHNA, CTSi, and EXPANSIA have come together to form a Defense Technology platform ... IC, or defense contractor programs). * Strong understanding of secure software development ...

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Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defense Contractor Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Defense Contractor Software Engineer, you should possess strong programming skills in languages like C++, Java, or Python, a bachelor's degree in computer science or engineering, and eligibility for security clearance. Familiarity with tools and frameworks such as embedded systems, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and secure software development methodologies is often required, along with certifications like Security+ or CISSP. Outstanding problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively within multidisciplinary teams are valuable soft skills. These capabilities ensure project success, compliance with stringent regulations, and the ability to innovate in high-stakes, mission-critical environments.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a Defense Contractor Software Engineer?

As a Defense Contractor Software Engineer, your daily responsibilities may include designing, coding, and testing software for defense systems, debugging complex issues, and ensuring products comply with security and regulatory standards. You'll often collaborate closely with systems engineers, hardware teams, and project managers to deliver integrated solutions. Depending on your project, you might also participate in technical reviews, support integration and testing activities, and maintain thorough documentation. Working within a multidisciplinary team, you will play a key role in delivering reliable and secure technology critical to national defense.

What is a Defense Contractor Software Engineer job?

A Defense Contractor Software Engineer develops, tests, and maintains software systems for military and defense applications. They work for private companies that contract with government agencies, such as the Department of Defense, to create secure and reliable software solutions. Their work often involves embedded systems, cybersecurity, and compliance with strict government regulations. This role requires a security clearance, knowledge of specialized programming languages, and an understanding of defense industry standards.

What cities are hiring for Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most 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 Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Defense Software Engineer

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Software Engineer

Applied Intuition is redefining vehicle intelligence across commercial and defense sectors. As a Software Engineer, your responsibilities will look similar to those of a startup CTO: you'll work in small teams and own end-to-end execution of high stakes projects. You'll be the technical bridge between Applied Intuition's novel vehicle intelligence platforms and our customers' real-world operational environments.

This role demands both technical depth and operational excellence. You'll primarily work with defense and government customers, integrating our tools, Vehicle OS, and autonomy stacks with DOD platforms in challenging operational environments. The unique advantage: you'll leverage our robust commercial technology and rapidly evolving product suite to deliver capabilities that would take traditional defense contractors years to develop. You'll tackle problems spanning core software engineering, system deployment, hardware integration, and everything in between to ensure mission success.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys ownership, is passionate about defense technology and is eager to make a significant impact on national security.

At Applied Intuition, You Will:
  • Work directly with defense and government customers to deploy, integrate, and operationalize Applied Intuition's vehicle intelligence products in military and government environments—from defense contractors to forward operating bases
  • Tackle a broad range of technical challenges, including software engineering, operating system configuration, system deployment, and hardware integration
  • Bridge customer-built systems and Applied's solutions to deliver tangible value
  • Design and implement scalable, consistent approaches for customer engagement and project execution
  • Develop architectural solutions that improve consistency and scalability across projects
  • Collaborate with internal engineering, product, and customer teams to ensure successful outcomes
  • Take ownership of technical outcomes and drive projects to completion, adapting to changing requirements and priorities
We're Looking For Someone Who Has:
  • 3 + years professional software engineering experience
  • Strong engineering background, preferred in fields such as Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering
  • Strong coder with demonstrated proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python
  • Broad technical experience across software engineering, operating systems, and some hardware
  • Experience supporting integration and deployment of complex systems
  • Exceptional problem-solving skills and a proven ability to thrive and innovate independently within highly ambiguous and rapidly evolving operational environments
  • Excellent communication skills and focus on solving customer problems
Security Requirements:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance

Compensation at Applied Intuition for eligible roles includes base salary, equity, and benefits. Base salary is a single component of the total compensation package, which may also include equity in the form of options and/or restricted stock units, comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage, 401k retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off. Note that benefits are subject to change and may vary based on jurisdiction of employment.

Applied Intuition pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum intended target base salary for new hire salaries for the position. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, interview performance, and the level and scope of the position.

Don't meet every single requirement? If you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Applied Intuition is an equal opportunity employer and federal contractor or subcontractor. Consequently, the parties agree that, as applicable, they will abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 41 CFR 60-300.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and that these laws are incorporated herein by reference. These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin. These regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability. The parties also agree that, as applicable, they will abide by the requirements of Executive Order 13496 (29 CFR Part 471, Appendix A to Subpart A), relating to the notice of employee rights under federal labor laws.