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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with missile defense programs and M&S best ... software engineering (including software development lifecycle and software development process ...

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a talented Software Engineer to develop high-performance applications and backend systems supporting advanced sensors and mission systems. This role is ideal for ...

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with missile defense programs and M&S best ... software engineering (including software development lifecycle and software development process ...

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with missile defense programs and M&S best ... software engineering (including software development lifecycle and software development process ...

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a talented Software Engineer to develop high-performance applications and backend systems supporting advanced sensors and mission systems. This role is ideal for ...

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with missile defense programs and M&S best ... software engineering (including software development lifecycle and software development process ...

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a talented Software Engineer to develop high-performance applications and backend systems supporting advanced sensors and mission systems. This role is ideal for ...

In this role, you will be working with experienced engineers, you will support the software ... Come be a part of the development of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Software ...

In this role, you will be working with experienced engineers, you will support the software ... Come be a part of the development of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Software ...

In this role, you will be working with experienced engineers, you will support the software ... Come be a part of the development of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Software ...

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$133K - $178K/yr

The GMD program is a portion of the Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) system to protect the US and our ... The selected Principal Software Engineer responsibilities will include the support of the GMD ...

QTEC Aerospace is seeking a SOFTWARE ENGINEER to join our team of professionals in Huntsville, AL ... Missile Defense domain knowledge * Knowledge of MySQL for database management and data retrieval

Principal Software Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$133K - $178K/yr

The GMD program is a portion of the Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) system to protect the US and our ... The selected Principal Software Engineer responsibilities will include the support of the GMD ...

If you have relevant experience and you are motivated to solve novel software problems in Defense ... object-oriented programming Backend software development experience Experience writing and ...

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Defense Software Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$57.6K

$133.7K

$186.3K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Alabama is $133,714.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,800.00 and $156,800.00 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 are popular job titles related to Defense Software Engineer jobs in Alabama? For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Alabama as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,714 per year, or $64.3 per hour.
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

DESE Research, Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

DESE Research, Inc. has an immediate opportunity for a talented Software Engineer in Huntsville, AL to join our team for the development of Modeling & Simulations (M&S) tools in support of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Ground Based Mid-course (GMD) program.
In this role you will design, develop, and enhance simulation framework code that integrates supplier-provided models and data sources. The candidate will join our team developing software in support of GMD customer's Medium Fidelity Simulation tools, specifically STRATSIM and IRM (Interceptor Reference Model) products. Experience with AFSim (Advanced Framework for Simulation Integration Modeling) is beneficial.
The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with missile defense programs and M&S best practices. A background in software development lifecycle is strongly preferred.
Qualified applicants will have strong programming skills, be able to work independently, and take a proactive role to assure that those task responsibilities are completed on schedule.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in the physical sciences, mathematics, engineering, computer science, or other relevant field
  • 5 - 15 years of relevant experience
  • Proficiency with C++, makefiles, JavaScript, Twisted (for GUI development), python scripting
  • Demonstrable understanding of software principles, theories, and concepts related to software engineering (including software development lifecycle and software development process), design patterns, Object-Oriented design and programming
  • Experience with Agile development methodologies (sprints, backlog, team collaboration, etc)
  • Familiarity with GitLab source code management/project management tools
  • Knowledge of Linux and Windows programming environments
  • Desire for code quality, not only in writing well-crafted code, but participating in sprint planning, unit tests, and documentation in the process
  • Active Secret Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of STRATSIM, IRM, AFSIM
  • Knowledge of Agile development process
  • Experience with Git, Jenkins, or the Atlassian tool suite (Jira)
  • Knowledge of Matlab/Mex files
  • Knowledge of containerized applications like Docker/Kubernetes
  • Ability to work independently and proactively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

About DESE
For the past 43 years, DESE has provided industry-leading technical and engineering solutions in the fields of Defense, Energy, Space, and Environment. As a small, family-oriented business, DESE provides a compelling benefits package including a generous profit-sharing plan, competitive salaries, and perhaps most importantly, the opportunity to work alongside talented professionals leveraging cutting-edge technologies to solve complex and engaging problems.
Why employees love working for DESE:
At DESE, we are committed to creating a company that is known for its respect and care for employees. We understand that happy employees are what keeps our business going and we strive to provide the best opportunities for each individual working on our team! Here are a few reasons you will love working here:
  • Competitive health, dental and vision insurance with affordable premiums
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Two different flexible spending account options
  • Company paid life insurance with options for employee paid additional
  • Performance bonus program
  • Education reimbursement program
  • Company paid personal leave for approved philanthropic activities
  • Vacation, Sick & Holiday leave
  • Robust 401k profit sharing plan
  • Opportunities for internal promotions
  • Employee referral incentive program
  • Rewards and gifts for service anniversaries

Disability Accommodation for Applicants - DESE Research, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in its job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you may use the following alternative email address or phone number to contact us about your interest in employment with us: or 256-837-8004x123.