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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Bothell, WA (NOW HIRING)

Overland AI

Forward Deployed Software Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $240K/yr

Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors including 8VC and Point 72 ... We are looking for a field-forward, Software Engineer to deploy, operate, sustain, and iterate on ...

Boeing

Senior Software Engineer-Developer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$138K - $182K/yr

The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Software Engineer - Developer to join the KC-46 team in Tukwila, WA. In this role, the individual ...

Boeing

Senior Software Engineer-Developer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$138K - $182K/yr

The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Software Engineer - Developer to join the KC-46 team in Tukwila, WA. In this role, the individual ...

Overland AI

Infrastructure Software Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors including 8VC and Point 72 ... As a Software Infrastructure Engineer , you'll design, build, and maintain the internal software ...

Blue Origin

Navigation Software Engineer

Seattle, WA

$130K - $182K/yr

Able to contribute as a software developer. * Effective use of software configuration management ... Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires ...

Blue Origin, LLC

Navigation Software Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$130K - $182K/yr

Able to contribute as a software developer. * Effective use of software configuration management ... Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires ...

Blue Origin

Software Engineer II

Seattle, WA

$134K - $188K/yr

As a software engineer, you will be a key member of a team of experts supporting manufacturing ... Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires ...

Blue Origin, LLC

Software Engineer II

Seattle, WA · On-site

$134K - $188K/yr

As a software engineer, you will be a key member of a team of experts supporting manufacturing ... Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires ...

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All JobsDefense Software Engineer JobsDefense Software Engineer Jobs in Bothell, WA

Defense Software Engineer information

See Bothell, WA salary details

$71K

$164.9K

$229.7K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Bothell, WA is $164,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,100.00 and $193,400.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Software Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA? For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Bothell, WA are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Bothell, WA with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Defense Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Bothell, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $164,915 per year, or $79.3 per hour.

Forward Deployed Software Engineer

Overland AI

Seattle, WA • On-site

$120K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About Overland AI
Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Overland AI is transforming land operations for modern defense. The company leverages over a decade of advanced research in robotics and machine learning, as well as a field-test forward ethos, to deliver combined capabilities for unit commanders. Our OverDrive autonomy stack enables ground vehicles to navigate and operate off-road in any terrain without GPS or direct operator control. Our intuitive OverWatch C2 interface provides commanders with precise coordination capabilities essential for mission success.
Overland AI has secured funding from prominent defense tech investors including 8VC and Point 72, and built trusted partnerships with DARPA, the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command. Backed by eight-figure contracts across the Department of Defense, we are strengthening national security by iterating closely with end users engaged in tactical operations.
Role Summary:
We are looking for a field-forward, Software Engineer to deploy, operate, sustain, and iterate on autonomous ground-vehicle software systems in real operational environments. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of software development and field operations, is comfortable debugging systems live on vehicles, and enjoys working directly with end users to deliver mission-ready autonomy.
This is not a desk-only role. You will spend significant time deployed at test sites, customer locations, and operational events, working hands-on with autonomous systems, diagnosing software and system-level issues, and ensuring platforms perform reliably in challenging, real-world conditions.
Responsibilities:
Deploy and Field-Test Systems:
Deploy, configure, and evaluate autonomy software on uncrewed ground vehicles in real-world environments. When not traveling, you will support system integration, simulation, and field testing between our Seattle and Central Washington State locations.
Sustain and Troubleshoot:
Debug and resolve software, autonomy, networking, and system-integration issues during deployments, often under time pressure and in resource-constrained environments. Work directly on vehicles alongside hardware engineers to diagnose failures and implement practical fixes to keep systems operational.
Develop and Iterate:
Contribute to autonomy, perception, and system-level software development. Incorporate feedback from field operations and end users to rapidly improve reliability, performance, and usability.
Collaborate Across Teams:
Partner closely with hardware engineers, autonomy engineers, product, and program managers to ensure seamless deployment and alignment with mission and end-user needs.
Document and Analyze:
Maintain clear documentation of field performance, bugs, and lessons learned. Provide actionable recommendations to improve software robustness and operational readiness.
Train and Support Users:
Act as an on-site technical expert, training operators and users on system behavior, limitations, and troubleshooting. Support operational readiness before and during deployments.
Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field, or 5-8 years of equivalent professional experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DoD security clearance.

Desired Experience & Qualifications:
  • Strong software engineering fundamentals with experience deploying systems beyond the lab.
    Proficiency in Python and/or C++.
  • Experience working in Linux-based environments, including debugging software in the field.
  • Familiarity with robotics and autonomous systems (e.g., ROS, autonomy stacks, distributed systems).
  • Experience integrating software with real-world hardware systems (sensors, compute, networking).
  • Understanding of autonomous system sensors such as LiDAR and cameras.
  • Comfort debugging complex, system-level issues involving software, hardware, and networking.
  • Ability to operate independently in challenging environments, including adverse weather and remote locations.
  • Thrive in dynamic, cross-functional teams and small startup environments.
  • Experience deploying software in defense technology, deep tech, robotics, or startup environments.
  • Prior experience supporting software during live demos, tests, or operational events.
  • Willingness to co-locate at testing sites or military installations for extended periods, both CONUS and OCONUS.

Benefits:
Overland AI believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day.
  • The salary range for this position is $120K to $240K annually
  • Equity compensation
  • Best-in-class healthcare, dental and vision plans
  • Flexible PTO
  • 401k with company match
  • Parental leave

Location:
This position is located in Seattle, WA. When not traveling, you will be based out of our Seattle headquarters. Frequent, extended travel is expected (>50%), including time at test sites, customer locations, and operational events, both CONUS and OCONUS.
Overland AI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, protected veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
This position may involve access to export-controlled technology. Employment is contingent on the ability to comply with U.S. export control laws.
Overland AI provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans during the application process. Please contact [peopleops@overland.ai] to request an accommodation.

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