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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

... software and systems engineering company supporting the U ... S. military, defense primes, and commercial space partners. We specialize in the development ...

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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 Sep 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?

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 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 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 cities in California are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Sr. Software Engineer

Lynx Software Technologies, Inc. Sunnyvale, California, United States

About this position

Job Title : Sr. Software Engineer

Location: Onsite - Sunnyvale, CA.

Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 + Bonus Eligible

Security Clearance: Active Secret Clearance Required

This position requires full time onsite in Sunnyvale, CA.

Who we are: Lynx delivers modular, open standards–based software that transforms how high-assurance, mission‑critical edge systems are built, deployed, and maintained. Our secure edge computing solutions enable innovation and operational excellence in the world’s most demanding environments, from aerospace and defense to commercial and industrial systems. We partner across industries including automotive, medical, and critical infrastructure to deliver tailored solutions aligned with each customer’s mission and operational requirements.Our key products and services are:

  • MOSA.ic: LYNXMOSA.ic™is a modular software framework and architecture purpose-built for mission-critical edge computing. Based on theModular Open Systems Approach (MOSA),it provides a flexible foundation for buildingsecure, scalable, and certifiable edgesystems.
  • LYNX MOSA.ic.AI : LYNX MOSA.ic.AI is a unified CPU and GPU software platform that enables deterministic, certifiable deployment of AI and advanced workloads in mission-critical edge systems. It brings control, performance, and lifecycle governance together, allowing AI tooperatepredictably within safety-critical environments without compromising certification or system integrity.
  • CoreSuite2.0 : CoreSuite2.0 is Lynx’s safety-criticalGPU for graphics enablement framework designed for mission-critical edge computing systems.It provides hardware-accelerated graphics, visualization, and video processing capabilities that can be certified for high-assurance systems.
  • Services : Lynx Services is Lynx’s professional services organization that helps customers design, integrate, certify, deploy, andmaintainsafety- and security-critical systems. It supports industries like aerospace, defense, automotive, and industrial computing through consulting, engineering, integration, and lifecycle support,reducing development risk and accelerating certification in standards-driven, mission-critical environment.

Company Overview

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 Sr 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 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 subjected to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information and must maintain eligibility for continued access to classified information throughout their employment as required by the job.

Basic Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in STEM discipline
  • 5+ years of C/C++ software Development experience
  • Experience with Digital Simulation Development and integration
  • Experience with Embedded Software Development
  • Experience with I&T integration and testing.
  • Experience with GITLAB.
  • Experience with Full Software Development Cycle
  • Experience with (FSW) Flight software engineering
  • Proficient with Linux and Windows development environments
  • Experience with compilers, debuggers, static analysis tools, and dynamics analysis tool
  • Ability to professionally communicate project status and collaborate on technical solutions with clients and peers
  • Active Secret Clearance required
  • Ability to work onsite 100%
  • Perform additional job duties as assigned.

Preferred / Additional Skills

  • Proficient with Atlassian Tools (Confluence, JIRA, Bitbucket, etc.)
  • Familiarity with Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE) concepts and tools (Cameo, AADL)
  • Experience with Navigation, Guidance and Control Implementation
  • Experience with Signal Processing Implementation
  • Experience developing Embedded Flight Software
  • 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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