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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lynx

Principal Software Engineer (Test)

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$144K - $193K/yr

Thompson Software Solutions is a mission-driven aerospace and defense software and systems engineering company. They are seeking a Principal Software Engineer (Test) to contribute to the development ...

Lynx

Principal Software Engineer - OMS

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$144K - $193K/yr

Thompson Software Solutions is a mission-driven aerospace and defense software and systems engineering company supporting the U.S. military. They are seeking a Principal Software Engineer - Open ...

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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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 6, 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 June 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.
Principal Software Engineer - OMS

Principal Software Engineer - OMS

Lynx Software Technologies

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Principal SW Engineer - OMS
Location: Fort Worth, TX or Palmdale, CA.
Compensation: $160,000 - $200,000 + 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 Principal Software Engineer - Open Mission Systems (OMS) to support the development and integration of advanced software capabilities for a military aircraft platform. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to next-generation avionics architectures that enhance interoperability, rapid capability integration, and mission effectiveness for U.S. military aviation programs.
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 a 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 STEM discipline
• 8+ years of C++ development experience
• Open Mission Systems (OMS) software architecture and development
• C++ mission software development in Linux environments
• Middleware and data distribution (DDS, pub/sub architectures)
• Service-oriented and event-driven software design
• Experience developing Service contracts
• Interface definition, ICD development, and data modeling
• Mission-level simulation and integration testing
• Ability to work onsite 100%
• Ability to travel 10%
Preferred / Additional Skills
• Proficient with Atlassian Tools (Confluence, JIRA, Bitbucket, etc.)
• Experience communicating and documenting complex technical designs
• Software development experience in Java
• Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) and FACE technical standards
• Integration of third-party mission applications
• Secure and sustainable mission software lifecycle
• CI/CD and configuration management for mission software
• Ability to work in a collaborative and team-based environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skill
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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