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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Inabia Software & Consulting Inc.

KY · On-site

Department of Defense programs. The company specializes in systems engineering, aviation support, test and evaluation, systems integration, and advanced technology solutions for military customers.

Quest Global

Robot Commissioning Engineer

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

... defense, automotive, energy, hi-tech, healthcare, medical devices, rail and semiconductor ... Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, controls, network, and software issues across ...

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All JobsDefense Software Engineer JobsDefense Software Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

Defense Software Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$55.2K

$128.1K

$178.5K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Kentucky is $128,128.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,200.00 and $150,300.00 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 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 Kentucky? For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Defense Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,128 per year, or $61.6 per hour.

Software or Systems Engineers - Flight Controls

Performance Software

Lexington, KY • On-site

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Salary: $75,000-$145,000 DOE

We have an immediate need for an Avionics Software or Systems Engineer. This position can either be direct in one of our office locations or as a remote contract. We are located in Phoenix, AZ, Cedar Rapids, IA, Grand Rapids, MI, Bothell, WA, Lexington, KY, and New Orleans, LA.


Pay Range: $75/hr - $110/hr - DOE - Contract

$75,000 - $145,000 - DOE - Direct



Job Requirements


  • Due to compliance with U.S. export control laws and regulations, candidate must be a U.S. Person, which is defined as, a U.S. citizen, a U.S. permanent resident, or have protected status in the U.S. under asylum or refugee status or have the ability to obtain an export authorization
  • Bachelors or advanced degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Mathematics, or equivalent development experience
  • Significant Avionics Flight Controls software experience is required
  • Strong object oriented language (C++, C#, Python, etc.) and software development methodologies (Waterfall, Agile, etc.)
  • Demonstrated teamwork and leadership abilities
  • Embedded software experience is required


Why work with those of us at Performance Software? Why change jobs or begin your career with us?


Our Mission:

Your success. How, you might ask? By providing a company culture dedicated to a sensible work/life balance by hiring carefully selected team players with whom you will work; by encouraging each other to produce the best embedded software for safety critical (Avionics & Medical Instruments) systems in the country; by having raving fans (customers who come back to us regularly because we get it done right and on time).

Were a medium-sized company thats growing rapidly, but which maintains that small company feel. At Performance, youre not just a name & face or locked onto a fixed team maintaining legacy systems; instead, youll be working on a wide variety of projects using the full gamut of advanced software development technologies.

We provide what great talent wants and deserves!


About Performance:

Performance Inc. is engaged in the design of Real-time Embedded Software. This includes avionics and healthcare applications such as CT Scanner, Synthetic Vision Cockpit Displays, Flight Management System Guidance and Navigation, Platforms (I/O, BITE, Driver, Boot, BSP, DSP, A/D, Dataloader), and Datalink Applications (FANS, VDL Mode 2, ATN, CPDLC). Our customers are both Commercial and Defense related healthcare and avionics manufacturers.


We have locations in Phoenix, AZ, Cedar Rapids, IA, Grand Rapids, MI, Bothell, WA, Lexington, KY, and New Orleans, LA. We have been in business since 1998 and have been awarded INC 5000 Fastest Growing Companies and Best Places to Work in Arizona multiple years.


Performance Software is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. We are committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please discuss this with your recruiter if you are selected for an interview.



To learn more about us: www.psware.com