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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Defense Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$65.4K

$152K

$211.7K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Chicago, IL is $151,971.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,600.00 and $178,200.00 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 Chicago, IL? For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Defense Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 33% In-person, 34% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,971 per year, or $73.1 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer III

Embedded Software Engineer III

Prolim Global

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

www.govt.prolim.com  Is hiring for federal client Northrup Grumman  Embedded Software Engineer III
Northrop Grumman | MANHATTAN BEACH,CA & ROLLING MEADOWS,IL& LINTHICUM MARYLAND CITIZENS ONLY

Interested candidate can share resume at alec.dsouza@prolim.com or call Senior Recruiter Alec at 214-764-6882

Job Description: Embedded Software Engineer III (Contract)

Company: Northrop Grumman Corporation
Job Title: Embedded Software Engineer III
Location: Manhattan Beach, CA (Onsite)
Employment Type: Full-Time Contract
Contract Duration: August 3, 2026 – December 31, 2027
Work Schedule: 9x80 A (40 hours/week)
Security Clearance: Active Secret Clearance Required
Citizenship Requirement: U.S. Citizenship Required

Position Overview

Northrop Grumman Strategic Space Systems is seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer III to join its Software Engineering organization in Manhattan Beach, California. The selected candidate will develop high-performance embedded software for flight, space, and ground systems operating in resource-constrained environments with both soft and hard real-time requirements.

This role involves designing and implementing complex software solutions for data processing, control systems, and embedded applications while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams throughout the software development lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, test, debug, and maintain embedded software applications using C/C++.
  • Develop object-oriented software for real-time embedded systems.
  • Implement software for resource-constrained environments supporting aerospace and defense applications.
  • Work with real-time operating systems such as VxWorks, RT-Linux, FreeRTOS, or similar RTOS platforms.
  • Participate in software architecture, requirements analysis, design, coding, integration, verification, validation, and deployment.
  • Collaborate with systems, hardware, and test engineers to integrate software with complex hardware platforms.
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation and ensure compliance with software engineering standards.
  • Support software integration, troubleshooting, and debugging in laboratory environments.
  • Participate in Agile, Waterfall, or Spiral software development processes.
  • Ensure software quality through unit testing, code reviews, and system validation.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical discipline from an ABET-accredited university.
  • Minimum of 5 years of professional software development experience.
  • Strong experience with C/C++ programming.
  • Experience with Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) and Object-Oriented Software Design.
  • Hands-on experience developing software for real-time operating systems (RTOS) such as VxWorks, RT-Linux, FreeRTOS, or Green Hills Integrity.
  • Experience working in fast-paced laboratory or embedded development environments.
  • Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience across the complete software development lifecycle, including:
    • Software architecture
    • Requirements analysis
    • Design and implementation
    • Unit testing
    • System integration
    • Verification and validation
  • Experience with embedded aerospace or defense systems.
  • Familiarity with hardware validation and verification of RF, digital, or mixed-signal devices.
  • Experience using laboratory test equipment, including:
    • Signal generators
    • Noise generators
    • Logic analyzers
    • Spectrum analyzers
    • Network analyzers
    • Power supplies and switching equipment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience working within large multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Required Technical Skills

  • C/C++
  • Embedded C++ Development
  • Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
  • Object-Oriented Software Development
  • Wind River VxWorks
  • VxWorks RTOS
  • Embedded Systems Development
  • Software Integration & Testing
  • Real-Time Embedded Software

Work Environment

  • Onsite position in Manhattan Beach, California.
  • Collaborative engineering laboratory supporting advanced aerospace and space programs.
  • Opportunity to work on mission-critical embedded software supporting next-generation strategic space systems.