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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Cornerstone Defense

Software Engineer 3

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$57 - $76.50/hr

Software Engineer 3 Location: Annapolis Junction, MD Compensation Range: $230 -$250K *Clearance ... Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ...

Cornerstone Defense

Cloud Software Engineer 2

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$59.50 - $77.25/hr

Cloud Software Engineer 2 Location: Annapolis Junction, MD Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Polygraph ... Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ...

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer

Lanham, MD · Hybrid

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions develops and fields transformative, affordable technology ... As part of the OpenSpace development team, the Software Engineer will be a valuable contributor to ...

AnaVation

Software Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$185K - $190K/yr

Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in software engineering, software development, and application programming supporting Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence ...

AnaVation

Software Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$185K - $190K/yr

Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in software engineering, software development, and application programming supporting Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence ...

AnaVation

Software Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$185K - $190K/yr

Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in software engineering, software development, and application programming supporting Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence ...

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer

Lanham, MD · Hybrid

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions develops and fields transformative, affordable technology ... As part of the OpenSpace development team, the Software Engineer will be a valuable contributor to ...

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer

Lanham, MD · Hybrid

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions develops and fields transformative, affordable technology ... As part of the OpenSpace development team, the Software Engineer will be a valuable contributor to ...

Nwis

Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$64K - $1M/yr

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... The Software Engineer develops, maintains, and enhances complex and diverse software systems (e.g ...

Nightwing

Software Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$64K - $1M/yr

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... The Software Engineer develops, maintains, and enhances complex and diverse software systems (e.g ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDefense Software Engineer JobsDefense Software Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD

Defense Software Engineer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$63.1K

$146.6K

$204.2K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Baltimore, MD is $146,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,200.00 and $171,900.00 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 Baltimore, MD?

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

What job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

What cities near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:

Defense Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $146,585 per year, or $70.5 per hour.

Software Engineer 3

Cornerstone Defense

Annapolis, MD • On-site

$57 - $76.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

  • Location: Annapolis Junction, Maryland
  • Type: Contract
  • Job #3933

Title: Software Engineer 3
Location: Annapolis Junction, MD
Compensation Range: $230 -$250K
*Clearance: *Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph needed to apply *
Company Overview:
Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space communities of the U.S. Government. Realizing early on that our most prized assets are our employees, we continually focus our attention on improving the overall work/life experience they have supporting the mission. Our Team is pushed every day to use their industry leading knowledge to provide end-to-end solutions to combat our nation's toughest and most secure problems. If you are looking for a place to not only be professionally challenged, but encouraged and supported by a company that cares, don't look any further than Cornerstone Defense.
Benefits Overview:
Cornerstone Defense offers a very comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to: Medical, Dental and Vision Plans * Generous PTO Policy * 401(k) * HSA and FSA options * Life and Disability Insurance * Tuition Reimbursement and Training * Perks at Work Discount Program * Referral Program * Leads Generation Program * CollegeAmerica 529 * Fitness Reimbursement Program * Travel Assistance * Norton Lifelock Benefit Solutions * Life Planning Financial & Legal Services *
Position Description:
The Software Engineer develops, maintains, and enhances complex and diverse software systems (e.g., processing-intensive analytics, novel algorithm development, manipulation of extremely large data sets, real-time systems, and business management information systems) based upon documented requirements. Works individually or as part of a team. Reviews and tests software components for adherence to the design requirements and documents test results. Utilizes software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development environment. Provides specific input to the software components of system design to include hardware/software trade-offs, software reuse, use of Commercial Off-the-shelf (COTS)/Government Off-the-shelf (GOTS) in place of new development, and requirements analysis and synthesis from system level to individual software components.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related discipline from an accredited college or university is required.
    • Four (4) years of additional SWE experience on projects with similar software processes may be substituted for a bachelor's degree.
  • Twenty (20) years' experience as a SWE, in programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity is required.

Responsibilities:
  • Analyze user requirements to derive software design and performance requirements
  • Debug existing software and correct defects
  • Provide recommendations for improving documentation and software development process standards
  • Design and code new software or modify existing software to add new features
  • Integrate existing software into new or modified systems or operating environments
  • Develop simple data queries for existing or proposed databases or data repositories
  • Write or review software and system documentation
  • Serve as team lead at the level appropriate to the software development process being used on any particular project
  • Design or implement complex database or data repository interfaces/queries
  • Develop or implement algorithms to meet or exceed system performance and functional standards
  • Assist with developing and executing test procedures for software components
  • Develop software solutions by analyzing system performance standards, confer with users or system engineers; analyze systems flow, data usage and work processes; and investigate problem_ areas
  • Modify existing software to correct errors, to adapt to new hardware, or to improve its performance
  • Design, develop and modify software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcome and consequences of design
  • Design or implement complex algorithms requiring adherence to strict timing, system resource, or interface constraints; Perform quality control on team products
  • Implement recommendations for improving documentation and software development process standards
  • Oversee one or more software development teams and ensure the work is completed in accordance with the constraints of the software development process being used on any particular project
  • Confer with system engineers and hardware engineers to derive software requirements and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces
  • Coordinate software system installation and monitor equipment functioning to ensure operational specifications are met
  • Recommend new technologies and processes for complex software projects
  • Serve as the technical lead of multiple software development teams
  • Select the software development process in coordination with the customer and system engineering
  • Ensure quality control of all developed and modified software
  • Delegate programming and testing responsibilities to one or more teams and monitor their performance

Required Skills:
  • Ten years of experience developing with Java SE, Python, Git, Shell/Bash, Nexus, Maven, JavaScript/HTML5/CSS3, JUnit, and modern IDEs.
  • Ten years of experience in software architecture development, requirements analysis, code generation, process execution and evaluation, and technology selection and assessment.
  • Ten years of experience with containers and orchestration technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes, OpenShift, GitLab CI), including microservices, CI/CD pipelines, automated testing integration (e.g., SonarQube), automated deployments and failure rollbacks, and Kubernetes-based deployments.
  • Ten years of experience supporting Agile development programs that deliver new capabilities in each Sprint.
  • Experience with Spring Framework, Spring Tool Suite, Grit, Jenkins, Hibernate, MySQL, Web Services, and Google Web Toolkit or Vaadin is a plus.

Apply