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Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... defense intelligence, EMSO, advanced analytics, and programmatic domains. As an employee-owned ... As a Mid-Level Software Engineer supporting NASA programs through a contractor organization, you ...

Senior Software Engineer

Fairborn, OH · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design, develop, and sustain high-quality software ...

Senior Software Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site +1

$119K - $157K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design, develop, and sustain high-quality software ...

Senior Software Engineer

Fairborn, OH · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design, develop, and sustain high-quality software ...

Sr Staff/Senior Software Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$124K - $164K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... SciTec is seeking a Sr Staff/Senior Software Engineer to support programs delivering Missile ...

Sr Staff/Senior Software Engineer

Aurora, CO

$124K - $164K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... SciTec is seeking a Sr Staff/Senior Software Engineer to support programs delivering Missile ...

Sr Staff/Senior Software Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$124K - $164K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... SciTec is seeking a Sr Staff/Senior Software Engineer to support programs delivering Missile ...

Sr. Staff Software Engineer

Fairborn, OH · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... We are seeking a Senior Staff Software Engineer to design, develop, and sustain high-quality ...

Sr. Staff Software Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site +1

$119K - $157K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... We are seeking a Senior Staff Software Engineer to design, develop, and sustain high-quality ...

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Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

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

As of Jul 1, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Principal Software Engineer with Test Equipment

Principal Software Engineer with Test Equipment

Raytheon

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$125K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Raytheon rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary:
Raytheon is a leading defense contractor dedicated to solving mission-level customer challenges. The Principal Software Engineer will be responsible for the design, development, integration, and maintenance of software applications to support weapon system product development, working closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
Responsibilities:
• Design, develop and integrate object-oriented software applications using C#, C++ in Microsoft Visual Studio in a Windows Operating System (OS)
• Prioritize and handle multiple software engineering tasks concurrently
• Troubleshoot software and test equipment instrumentation
• Work in a multidiscipline engineering team environment
• Develop and derive requirements for software products
• Lead and mentor junior software engineers
Qualifications:
Required:
• Typically requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience, or an Advanced degree in a related field and minimum 5 years experience.
• Experience in developing and integrating software applications using programming languages including but not limited to C++, C#, Java, Python or Visual Basic.
• Experience in utilizing integrated development environments and debugging tools to troubleshoot software implementation and ensure integrity of the software products.
• Prior experience in Windows Operating System and Microsoft Visual Studio is required.
• Prior experience in laboratory test instrumentation, electronics, and software (Ex. oscilloscopes, power supplies, digital multimeters)
• Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Preferred:
• Experience with computer architecture and computer hardware optimization techniques
• Experience of the development of software drivers for the operation of computer hardware interfaces
• Experience in common computer hardware interface and data protocols such as TCP/IP, UDP, or RS-422
• Experience with Unified Modeling Language (UML) to visualize software architecture and design
• Experience in software development lifecycles, such as Waterfall and Agile
• Experience with Software Configuration Management principles
• Experience with Microsoft Azure DevOps Server or GitHub
• Written and interpersonal communication skills
• Experience in leading teams/projects in a technical capacity
Company:
Raytheon, an RTX business, creates next-generation defense solutions that are smarter, faster and better than previously thought possible. Founded in 1948, the company is headquartered in Waltham, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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