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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lynx

Principal Software Engineer - OMS

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$144K - $193K/yr

Lynx is a mission-driven aerospace and defense software and systems engineering company supporting the U.S. military and commercial space partners. The Principal Software Engineer - Open Mission ...

VSolvit

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER (C++)

Norco, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Navy. This position is ideal for a mid-to-senior level software engineer with strong C ... Experience developing desktop applications in government, defense, or regulated environments

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All JobsDefense Software Engineer JobsDefense Software Engineer Jobs in California

Defense Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 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 California? For Defense Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Defense Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer (Autonomy)

Senior Software Engineer (Autonomy)

Lynx Software Technologies

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Software Engineer (Autonomy)
Location: Fort Worth, TX or Palmdale, CA.
Compensation: $120,000 - $160,000 + Bonus Eligible
Security Clearance: Active Secret Clearance Required
Who we are: Founded in 2004 with locations in Atlanta, GA, Fort Worth, TX, Denver, CO, & Huntsville, AL, Thompson Software Solutions (TSS) is a mission-driven aerospace and defense software and systems engineering company supporting the U.S. military, defense primes, and commercial space partners. We specialize in the development, integration, test, and deployment of safety & mission-critical software systems that power next-generation aircraft, defense platforms, and space technologies. Our team understands what it takes to modernize complex embedded systems while maintaining the rigor, compliance, and reliability required for mission and safety-critical environments.
As a defense-focused company of highly skilled and dedicated engineers, we take pride in solving complex technical challenges that directly impact national security and operational readiness. We partner closely with customers across the military aviation and space domains to deliver resilient, future-ready solutions with portability, sustainability, and long-term mission success in mind.
Description:
Thompson Software Solutions is seeking a senior-level Embedded Software Engineer who is ready to work with a talented team to provide innovative solutions for tomorrow's problems. This position requires a software engineer to use a wide application of technical principles, theories, and concepts in the software field to develop, integrate, and test software products. The successful candidate will be a member of a high-performing multi-site team and must be self-motivated with strong work ethic, time-management, and interpersonal skills. In this role, you will work independently at times on projects, at other times will be in a collaborative team environment with other software engineers, as well as other program development and deployment teams.
Selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Continued eligibility for access to classified information is required throughout employment, as dictated by program needs.
Basic Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline.
  • 5+ years Strong software development experience using C, C++, Java, Python, and Bash for embedded systems, automation, testing, and application development.
  • Hands-on experience with sUAS (small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) and RC aircraft operations, integration, and troubleshooting.
  • Experience developing and configuring autonomous flight systems using ArduPilot and/or PX4 flight controllers.
  • Proficient with Git for source control, branching strategies, code reviews, and collaborative software development.
  • Familiarity with the MAVLink communication protocol, including telemetry, command-and-control messaging, mission planning, and integration with ground control stations.
  • Understanding robotics, autonomous systems, flight software, sensor integration, and embedded system design.
  • Proficient with Linux and Windows development environments
  • Ability to professionally communicate project status and collaborate on technical solutions with clients and peers
  • Active Secret DoD security clearance
  • 25% Travel

Preferred / Additional Skills:
  • Proficient with Atlassian Tools (Confluence, JIRA, Bitbucket, etc.)
  • DevOps & Containerization - Experience with Docker-based development, deployment, and maintaining CI/CD pipelines.
  • Embedded Systems - Developing software for microcontrollers and embedded hardware platforms.
  • Autonomy Systems - Working with autonomous systems software and hardware, including Perception (sensors, computer vision, sensor fusion)
  • Motion and mission planning
  • Control systems
  • Test & Verification Engineering - Creating automated tests, validation frameworks, and verification software.
  • Software Quality & CI/CD - Designing and maintaining robust software quality processes, automated builds, testing, and deployment pipelines.
  • Electrical Engineering Fundamentals - Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and collaborate with hardware teams.
  • Experience communicating and documenting complex technical designs
  • Ability to work in a collaborative and team-based environment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills

Sound Exciting? Get in touch today! We have very robust benefits including:
  • Low-cost Medical / Dental / Vision coverage options
  • 401K with generous employer match
  • Responsible Paid Time Off + Paid Holidays
  • Remote work opportunities based on role
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Career growth and professional development opportunities

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
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