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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary We are seeking a Software Engineer with 2-5 years of embedded development experience to ... To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S. Our Values. The Leonardo DRS ...

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Defense Software Engineer information

See Connecticut salary details

$60.4K

$140.3K

$195.5K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Connecticut is $140,337.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,200.00 and $164,600.00 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 are popular job titles related to Defense Software Engineer jobs in Connecticut?

For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,337 per year, or $67.5 per hour.

Software Engineer

Leonardo DRS

Danbury, CT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Leonardo DRS rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

115th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job ID: 114021
The Leonardo DRS Naval Power Systems business is a trusted provider of innovative naval gas and hybrid power systems, control technology and support solutions for the U.S. Navy and navies around the world.
Job Summary
We are seeking a Software Engineer with 2-5 years of embedded development experience to support the design, development and test of power and controls system equipment.
What You Will Do
  • Support the analysis of customer requirements and development of internal software requirements
  • Development of efficient and effective embedded system architectures to support requirements
  • Participate in the design, implementation, test/debug and integration of large embedded software subsystems
  • Coordinate software requirements-based test and support system test activities
  • Utilize Python for scripting and automation tasks
  • Provide ongoing maintenance support for released software

Education & Experience Requirements
  • A Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science with emphasis on C/C++, or equivalent education and experience
  • Embedded Software Engineer with 2-5 years of experience developing moderately complex real-time embedded software, with knowledge in DSP, RTOS, and C/C++ programming
  • Demonstrated capabilities in the design, development, and testing of embedded software products to be used in a high-reliability environment
  • Strong foundation in standard software development processes/methods and configuration management
  • Must be a self-starter comfortable with taking responsibility with a significant software design effort and be a champion for his/her designs and products
  • Must work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment

Additional Desirable Qualifications Skills and Knowledge
  • Education/experience with an emphasis on power electronics control software
  • Experience developing moderately complex software with multiple software development and verification environments and toolchains
  • Experience with embedded software related to the use of PWM controllers, A/D and D/A converters, communications interfaces, and hardware driver/board support for electronic devices
  • Working knowledge of multi-threaded designs using common real-time operating systems
  • Development experience utilizing embedded Linux (Yocto, or similar)
  • Experience with VHDL implementation on an FPGA target
  • Knowledge/experience with TI DSP devices and/or NXP processors
  • Experience with Matlab Simulink
  • Experience using git, Bitbucket, JIRA, and Jenkins
  • Experience with automated unit testing, static analysis, and/or automated system-level testing
  • Experience developing military products and familiarity with military specifications
  • Working knowledge of DOORS for requirements management
  • Experience in DO178, DO254 or equivalent quality system

U.S. Citizenship required. This position may require an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.
Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.
Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
#NPS
Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.
Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:
- Integrity
- Agility
- Excellence
- Customer Focus
- Community & Respect
- Innovation
We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers.

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About Leonardo DRS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing and communications equipment manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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