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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Dallas, TX (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer II

Dallas, TX · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Industry experience in defense? Not required -- we'll invest in you. If you meet the minimum ... At Raytheon's Software Engineering Directorate (SWE) Effectors Center (EC), we deliver innovative ...

Java Software Engineer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$46.75 - $64/hr

The Software Engineer will design, develop, and deliver complex state-of-the-art systems across a variety of engineering disciplines for defense department programs. Candidate must be able to ...

Software Engineer II

Plano, TX · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Raytheon has an opportunity for a Software Engineer II to join our Surveillance Sensor Radio Frequency (RF) Solutions Engineering Team in ...

Software Engineer II

Plano, TX · On-site

$69 - $131/hr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Raytheon has an opportunity for a Software Engineer II to join our Surveillance Sensor Radio Frequency (RF) Solutions Engineering Team in ...

Software Engineer II

Dallas, TX · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Industry experience in defense? Not required -- we'll invest in you. If you meet the minimum ... At Raytheon's Software Engineering Directorate (SWE) Effectors Center (EC), we deliver innovative ...

Junior Software Engineer

Frisco, TX · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Exposure to robotics, aerospace, defense, autonomous systems, or embedded software * Familiarity with CI/CD and DevOps concepts * Active Secret clearance or ability to obtain one What Success Looks ...

Showing results 21-40

Defense Software Engineer information

See Dallas, TX salary details

$62.8K

$145.9K

$203.3K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Dallas, TX is $145,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,700.00 and $171,100.00 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 job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Dallas, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Dallas, TX are:

What cities near Dallas, TX are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Dallas, TX with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Dallas, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,935 per year, or $70.2 per hour.

Principal Software Engineer

Sierra Nevada Corporation

Plano, TX • Hybrid

$165K - $226K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Sierra Nevada Corporation rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Do you enjoy developing new products and services? Join us! Our Software Engineers work in an agile, collective environment. As a Principal Software Engineer, you will provide technical leadership and strategic direction for the development and optimization of advanced software systems for aerospace applications. You will lead major projects, mentor engineering teams, and drive innovation to achieve superior software performance.The ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), Aviation, and Security (IAS) business area is a leader in ISR and aviation, it is a leading prime manned and unmanned aircraft systems integrator for innovative, high-performance ISR and aviation systems. Its end-to-end Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities encompass design, integration, test, certification, ground/flight training and complete logistics support. IAS tailors solutions to customer cost, performance, and schedule requirements and designs to consistently exceed expectations - with an unrivaled record of on time and on (or under) budget deliveries.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide technical leadership and direction for the development of advanced software systems.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure software meets performance, quality, and regulatory standards.
  • Lead the creation and maintenance of detailed software documentation, including design specifications and user manuals.
  • Mentor and guide engineering teams on technical best practices and innovation.
  • Conduct high-level code reviews and provide strategic feedback.
  • Define and implement software requirements and specifications in collaboration with stakeholders.
  • Drive major continuous improvement initiatives to enhance software performance and reliability.
  • Represent the software engineering function in high-level strategic meetings and decision-making processes.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; Master's degree preferred.
  • 14+ years of experience in experience in software development.
  • Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.
  • Expert proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python.
  • Extensive leadership experience in software development.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of engineering principles and practices.
  • Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams.
  • An active Secret with the eligibility to obtain a Top Secret / Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance is required.

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Expertise in advanced software technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, cloud computing).
  • Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded systems.
  • Significant experience in the Aerospace and Defense industry.
  • Understanding of industry standard software languages such as C, C#, C++, HTML, Java, Python, and Bash.
  • Experience with software tools for requirements tracking, code reviews, static analysis, library and artifact repository, and automated build.
  • Knowledge of software development methodologies such as Agile/Scrum, Waterfall, and Spiral.
  • Proficient with data structures.
  • Experience using the Open Mission System messaging protocol and Universal Command and Control Interface standards.
  • Experience supporting mission system architectures and capabilities

Essential Functions:

  • Ability to work on a computer for extended periods.
  • Hand/finger dexterity for coding and testing.
  • Ability to work in a hybrid environment with occasional travel.

This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs.

Estimated Starting Salary Range: $165,010.21 - $226,889.04. Compensation varies depending on a wide array of factors, such as candidates' key skills, relevant work experience, and education/training/certifications. The disclosed range estimate may be adjusted for any applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled.

SNC offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.

SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.

Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances.

SNC is a global leader in aerospace and national security committed to moving the American Dream forward. We're known and respected for our mission and execution focus, agility, and disruptive and rapid innovation. We provide leading edge technologies and transformative solutions that support our nation's most critical security needs. If you are mission-focused, thrive in collaborative environments, and want to make our country stronger with state-of-the-art technologies that safeguard freedom, join our team!

SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.


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