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Defense Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Proven experience as a Software Engineer, preferably within defense or military systems. * Strong knowledge of Majcom (Major Command) operations and requirements. * Experience with C3I amp;N (Command ...

Born out of the Department of Defense's software factory ecosystem, Omni has rapidly distinguished ... The engineer will work with an existing code base--learning it quickly, manipulating it for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$119.10K - $157K/yr

Senior Software Engineer Location: St. Louis, MO Security Clearance: Active TS/SCI (or SCI ... Originating from the Department of Defense's software factory ecosystem, Omni focuses on Command ...

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Defense Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense 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 is a Defense Software Engineer job?

A Defense Software Engineer develops, tests, and maintains software for military and defense applications. They work on secure, mission-critical systems such as weapons control, cybersecurity, and communication networks. Their role requires proficiency in programming languages, security protocols, and compliance with defense standards. Due to the nature of the industry, security clearances and adherence to classified information policies are often required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defense Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Software Engineer, you need expertise in software development, a strong grasp of cybersecurity principles, and familiarity with defense industry standards, typically demonstrated by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Experience with programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python, knowledge of real-time operating systems, and certifications like Security+ or CISSP are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure that complex, secure, and mission-critical software solutions are effectively developed and maintained to meet stringent defense requirements.

What types of projects and technologies do Defense Software Engineers typically work on?

Defense Software Engineers often work on projects involving the development and maintenance of software for military systems, such as radar, communications, simulation, or weapons control platforms. They frequently use technologies like embedded systems, secure coding practices, and specialized hardware interfaces. Project work can range from upgrading legacy systems to designing cutting-edge capabilities, often requiring adherence to rigorous security and compliance protocols. Collaboration with systems engineers, hardware teams, and government stakeholders is typical, offering a dynamic and mission-driven work environment. This exposure helps engineers build specialized expertise while contributing directly to national security initiatives.
What cities are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Defense Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Software Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Defense Software Engineer

Defense Software Engineer

Applied Intuition

Washington, DC

$140K - $180K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

About the role

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

For more information about U.S. security clearances: click here.

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.

Please reference the job posting's subtitle for where this position will be located. For pay transparency purposes, the base salary range for this full-time position in the location listed is: $140,000 - $180,000 USD annually.