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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

SMS Data Products Group, Inc.

WAN Engineer

Sumter, SC · On-site

... and software using a project-based timeline. * Provide General IT Management support. * Provide ... Department of Defense Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain an Interim Secret ...

SMS Data Products Group, Inc.

WAN Engineer

Sumter, SC · On-site

... and software using a project-based timeline. * Provide General IT Management support. * Provide ... Department of Defense Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain an Interim Secret ...

Sms-Data-Products-Group,-Inc

WAN Engineer

Sumter, SC · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

... and software using a project-based timeline. * Provide General IT Management support. * Provide ... Department of Defense Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain an Interim Secret ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDefense Software Engineer JobsDefense Software Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Defense Software Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$58.7K

$136.5K

$190.1K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Columbia, SC is $136,479.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $160,000.00 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Defense Software Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:

Defense Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,479 per year, or $65.6 per hour.

AOC Systems Engineer

Trace Systems

Shaw Air Force Base, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Overview
Job Title: AOC Systems Engineer
Location: Shaw AFB, SC
This position is pending contract award.
Job Responsibilities
Trace Systems is seeking a dynamic AOC Systems Engineer to join our team in support of the AFCENT Combined Air Operations Center (CAOC) contract at Shaw AFB, SC. This role offers the opportunity to design, manage and optimize engineering support for Enterprise networks, systems and infrastructure. If you're ready to make a significant impact and thrive in a mission-critical environment, this opportunity is for you!
The job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Perform advanced technical support and O&M support activities and coordinate maintenance/restoration efforts and priorities, as required;
  • Serve as networks/systems engineering subject matter expert for communications and IT installation, upgrade, integration, removal and projects;
  • Manage effective delivery of Tier 2/3 technical support;
  • Analyze and translate operational requirements into the communications and IT hardware/software, infrastructure and service solutions designed to meet those needs;
  • Develop and provide detailed engineering solutions and cost estimates;
  • Perform and facilitate network and systems architecture planning, design, implementation, integration, testing and acceptance support activities;
  • Conduct technical feasibility analyses, engineering studies, and performance testing and measurement on networks/systems in order to identify performance vulnerabilities and weaknesses; and report findings to the government;
  • Recommend network/system hardware and software solutions and upgrades to promote efficient and effective performance;
  • Facilitate experiment, research and development, modeling and simulation projects, as required;
  • Develop and submit associated network/systems engineering documentation, studies, plans, diagrams, drawings and reports, as required by the government;
  • Evaluate organizational engineering processes and workflows; and provide recommendations for continuous process improvement;
  • Analyze overall health, operational capability and capacity of infrastructure and services; and recommend courses of action to address any deficiencies or shortfalls;
  • Develop and maintain AOC Weapons System network/systems/server configuration and connectivity drawings, diagrams, documentation and plans;
  • Develop and submit an Enterprise Systems Engineering Monthly Status Report;
  • Develop and submit an AOC Weapons Systems Engineering Monthly Status Report;
  • Coordinate sourcing of operational C4ISR system data (e.g. mapping and imagery data, Air Tasking Order/Air Coordination Order databases);
  • Other Duties as Required.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Active, in-scope US Government issued Top Secret clearance with SCI Eligibility.
  • Due to the nature of the work and contract requirements, US Citizenship is required.
  • 4+ years IT domain knowledge.
  • 8+ years AOC experience.
  • DoDM 8140 IAT Level 2 (Security+) or higher.
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) OR Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), OR equivalent certification.
  • VMware Certified Professional (VCP) or equivalent certification.

Education
  • Master of Computer Science or related area, with 4+ years IT domain knowledge and 8+ years AOC experience or Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related area, 8+ years IT domain knowledge, and 8+ years AOC experience.

Trace Systems
Trace Systems Inc. was founded to support and defend our nation's security interests at home and abroad-- whenever and wherever. We provide enterprise IT, engineering, full life-cycle communications, cybersecurity, cloud and virtualization services and solutions to the United States Department of Defense and other federal agencies.
To Apply: We invite you to put your talents to work by joining a growing team of dynamic professionals here at Trace Systems! Be part of a culture at our leading-edge company where you can achieve great things while fostering a satisfying and rewarding career progression. To learn more about our current openings, text 'tracejobs' to 97211 or apply directly through our website at: www.tracesystems.com. #jointracesystems
Trace Systems is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.

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