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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer III/IV

Burbank, IL ยท On-site

$58.25 - $78.50/hr

Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical systems and components to the aerospace and defense ... The Software Engineer is a top contributor who needs minimal to no supervision and uses originality ...

The Network Software Engineer will work as part of a team to support the development and release of ... Defense Information Systems Agency under the Department of War. Additionally, the position will ...

The Network Software Engineer will work as part of a team to support the development and release of ... Defense Information Systems Agency under the Department of War. Additionally, the position will ...

The Network Software Engineer will work as part of a team to support the development and release of ... Defense Information Systems Agency under the Department of War. Additionally, the position will ...

IL ยท On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... The ideal candidate brings a hybrid of statistical modeling fluency and hands-on software ...

Showing results 21-40

Defense Software Engineer information

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 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 cities in Illinois are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Principal Engineer, Software Engineering

Raytheon Technologies

Rockford, IL โ€ข On-site

$126K - $204K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Date Posted:
2026-07-07
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-IL-ROCKFORD-BB ~ 4747 Harrison Ave ~ BUTLER BLDG
Position Role Type:
Unspecified
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
Security Clearance Type:
Security Clearance Status:
Not Required
Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation d/b/a Collins Aerospace has an opening for a Principal Engineer, Software Engineering in Rockford, IL.
Joining Collins Aerospace isn't just about finding a job; it's about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology.
What YOU will do
  • Responsible for software development life cycle (plan, design, verify, certify) embedded software per aerospace standards (DO-178 is typical, design assurance levels A to C).
  • Design and implement build procedures that are used to support hardware and software product development and use.
  • Design, develop, document, test and design control and diagnostic systems that contain logical and mathematical solutions.
  • Conduct multidisciplinary research and collaborate with equipment designers in the planning, design, development and utilization of electronic data processing systems for product and commercial software.
  • Determine end-user needs by analyzing systems capabilities to resolve problems on program intent, output requirements and input data acquisition.
  • Innovate, design, develop and implement technologies, components, sub- systems, machines, tools and systems to ensure compliance to specifications, requirements and customer guarantees across applicable operating conditions.
  • Ensure hardware and software standards are met. Ensure novel ideas and implementation are captured and protected using applications IP processes and tools.
  • Provide technical leadership, training, and oversight.

Qualifications You Must Have
  • Must possess at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering or related field and at least 8 years of progressive experience as a Software Engineer or related role in the Aerospace, Defense, Automotive or Medical industries. In the alternative, at least a master's degree or its equivalent in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering or related field and at least 5 years of experience as a Software Engineer or related role in the Aerospace, Defense, Automotive or Medical industries would be acceptable.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of experience with embedded C programming.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with leading teams of 10-20 people.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with industry standards for the full software engineering lifecycle of safety critical systems such as DO-178B/C.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with software development for Generator or Bus Power Control Units.
  • Non-US Person - Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company's immigration sponsorship now or in the future. The company will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. The company will not seek an export authorization for this role.

Learn More & Apply Now!
Power & Controls: We make modern flight possible for millions of travelers and our military every second. Our major product lines are on-board virtually every aircraft flying. Be it keeping passengers safe with our emergency power generation systems or creating a positive in flight experience through reliable cabin pressure controls and quieter engines, Power & Controls focuses on delivering a best-in-class experience to our customers. We hire the top people in the industry. Their ideas drive our performance, and their integrity keeps our customers happy. Join us as we take flight!
Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work onsite. This
includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the
development of our products.
The salary range is $126,942.00 to $204,500.00 USD per year. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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