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Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in California

Software Engineer, Air Defense Irvine, California, United States Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced ...

The Software Engineering Manager leads a team developing advanced computing and communications ... Innoflight is a non-traditional defense contractor and provider of cyber-secure avionics services.

You will interface and collaborate with SE&I team members, contractors, government civilians and ... Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national ...

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Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

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 are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in California? For Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Software Engineer II (UAV Embedded)

Software Engineer II (UAV Embedded)

Kratos Defense

Roseville, CA

$95K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 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.