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$59.6K

$138.6K

$193K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Iowa is $138,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,700.00 and $162,500.00 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.
More about Defense Software Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Defense Software Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Defense Software Engineer jobs near you
Principal Engineer, Software Engineering

Principal Engineer, Software Engineering

Raytheon Technologies

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$133.49K - $204.50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Date Posted:
2026-05-06
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-105 ~ 400 Collins Rd NE ~ BLDG 105
Position Role Type:
Unspecified
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
Security Clearance Type:
Security Clearance Status:
Not Required
Rockwell Collins Inc. d/b/a Collins Aerospace has an opening for a Principal Engineer, Software Engineering in Cedar Rapids, IA.
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
  • Develop, coordinate and conduct complex tests and debug control and diagnostic systems that contain logical and mathematical solutions.
  • Conduct multidisciplinary research and collaborate with other project team members in the planning, design, development and utilization of electronic data processing systems for product and commercial software to ensure smooth operations on software engineering activities.
  • Design and implement build procedures that are used to support hardware and software product development and function.
  • Recommend changes in the selection and application of software production components to improve and develop software engineering activities.
  • Determine end-user needs by analyzing system capabilities to resolve problems on program intent, output requirements and input data acquisition.

Qualifications You Must Have
  • Must possess at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field and at least 8 years of progressive experience as a Software Engineer or related role in the Aerospace/Defense industry. In the alternative, at least a master's degree or its equivalent in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field and at least 5 years of experience as a Software Engineer or related role in the Aerospace/Defense industry would be acceptable.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of experience in Development and certification of Safety critical Flight Deck Avionics software.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of software engineering project management experience with leading scrum teams, project data reporting for cost and schedule, working with Certification authorities, attending and/or leading SOI audits.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of experience with Avionics regulatory and Certification requirements and processes such as TSO, DO-178 B/C, DO-160.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of experience with DOORS, Jama, Jira, Confluence, and/or Microsoft Project.
  • Must possess at least 5 years of experience working closely with multi-disciplinary engineering teams such as Software, Systems, Hardware, and Mechanical.
  • 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!
Avionics: Our Avionics team advances flight deck solutions, airborne communications, vision systems, sensors and fire protection for commercial and military customers around the world. That means we're helping people reach their destination safely and keeping pilots, passengers, flight crews, airlines, airports and military personnel connected and informed. And we're providing industry-leading fire protection and safety systems that our customers can count on when it matters most. Are you ready to learn from the most knowledgeable experts in the industry, develop the technologies of tomorrow and reach new heights in your career? Join our Avionics team today.
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 $133,494.00 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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