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

Actalent

Software Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$55 - $80/hr

Software Engineer / Principal Software Engineer This role focuses on designing, developing ... national defense capabilities. You will contribute to an enterprise digital transformation by ...

Chipton Ross

Software Engineer 3

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$163.46/hr

Through the use of Agile practices we continue to evolve how we deliver critical national defense ... The Software Engineer designs, develops, operates, and maintains software components and computing ...

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

Embedded Software Engineer An exciting opportunity awaits an Embedded Software Engineer to join our ... Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure high-reliability defense systems.

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All JobsDefense Software Engineer JobsDefense Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 18, 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.
Software Engineer

Software Engineer

Kranze Technology Solutions, Inc

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Kranze Technology Solutions develops complex, customized cutting edge aircraft avionics hardware and software solutions supporting survivability, situational awareness, interoperability, and data collection systems. KTS is seeking a talented and motivated software engineer. We are open to multiple experience levels from 1-10 years.
Responsibilities:
  • Work with system architects to develop product architectures
  • Develop and facilitate software requirements and test procedures
  • Design, code, integrate, and test major features of hardware and software products developed by KTS and using the latest COTS, industry, and government technology
  • Work with limited supervision, contribute innovative ideas to improve product capabilities, and lead smaller integration efforts
  • Effectively communicate problems encountered and status of ongoing projects or assignment
Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree (preferred) in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
  • Proficient in Python
  • Familiarity with object oriented software design and implementation
  • Hardware and software troubleshooting skills
  • Experience with Linux Operating System, RHEL experience a plus
  • Ability to obtain Security Clearance, for which the United States Government requires United States citizenship- sponsorship not available
Preferred Skills:
  • Familiarity with Python 3.6 and Tkinter
  • Familiarity with JIRA, Confluence, and BitBucket or other software management tools
  • Experience in C++ and JavaScript languages
  • Experience in UI/UX design
Benefits
Kranze Technology Solutions is proud to provide extremely competitive benefits to all full time employees including:
  • Comprehensive Leave plan (Paid Time Off)
  • Comprehensive Health Care package including Medical, Vision, Dental, Health Savings Account (HSA), and more
  • Generous 401 (k) retirement plan
  • Paid Overtime
  • Flex Time and Flexible Scheduling
  • Tuition Reimbursement options
  • Casual and relaxed work environment
We recognize that attracting the best talent is key to our strategy and success as a company. As a result, we aim for flexibility in structuring competitive compensation offers to ensure we are able to attract the best candidates. As required by law in this state, the estimated salary range for this position is between $90,000-$150,00 and represents our good faith estimate as to what our ideal candidates are likely to expect. We tailor our offers within the range based on organizational needs, internal equity, market data, geographic zone, and the selected candidate's experience, education, industry knowledge, location, technical and communication skills, and other factors that may prove relevant during the selection process.
About Kranze Technology Solutions:
We are part of an SPX Technologies' Communication Technologies platform in the Detection & Measurement business segment. KTS is focused in the defense industry specializing in Infrared Countermeasures (IRCM) systems, digital interoperability and networking, and program support for the US Navy, US Marine Corps, and Special Operations Command. We provide hardware and software product development, systems integration, system test and evaluation support, modeling and simulation analysis, and other engineering services to support the Warfighter.
Each team member has significant opportunities to solve a variety of complex technical challenges in small teams while working hand in hand with our defense customers.
KTS is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All applicants will be considered for employment without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other segmenting characteristics protected by law.
If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to
Human Resources
847-737-7299
[email protected]

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