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

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Our System Safety team is dedicated to ... Analyzing engineering software in accordance with MIL-STD-882E, JSSSEH, and other relevant ...

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Defense Software Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$60.6K

$140.9K

$196.2K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Houston, TX is $140,881.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,600.00 and $165,200.00 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 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 cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,881 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Principal Software Engineer with Test Solutions

Raytheon

Houston, TX

$128K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Raytheon rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-07-09

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-AZ-TUCSON-801 ~ 1151 E Hermans Rd ~ BLDG 801 (External Site)

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Ability to obtain INTERIM U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. 

Raytheon brings the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. We deliver solutions that help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression, creating a safer, more secure world. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

This position is 100% onsite in Tucson, AZ

What You Will Do:

  • Design, develop and integrate object-oriented software applications using C#, C++ in Microsoft Visual Studio in a Windows Operating System (OS)
  • Prioritize and handle multiple software engineering tasks concurrently
  • Troubleshoot software and test equipment instrumentation
  • Work in a multidiscipline engineering team environment
  • Develop and derive requirements for software products
  • Lead and mentor junior software engineers

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Typically requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience, or an Advanced degree in a related field and minimum 5 years experience.
  • Experience in developing and integrating software applications using programming languages including but not limited to C++, C#, Java, Python or Visual Basic.
  • Experience in utilizing integrated development environments and debugging tools to troubleshoot software implementation and ensure integrity of the software products.
  •  Prior experience in Windows Operating System and Microsoft Visual Studio is required.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance.


Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Prior experience in laboratory test instrumentation, electronics, and software (Ex. oscilloscopes, power supplies, digital multimeters)
  • Experience with computer architecture and computer hardware optimization techniques
  • Experience of the development of software drivers for the operation of computer hardware interfaces
  • Experience in common computer hardware interface and data protocols such as TCP/IP, UDP, or RS-422
  • Experience with Unified Modeling Language (UML) to visualize software architecture and design
  • Experience in software development lifecycles, such as Waterfall and Agile
  • Experience with Software Configuration Management principles
  • Experience with Microsoft Azure DevOps Server or GitHub
  • Written and interpersonal communication skills
  • Experience in leading teams/projects in a technical capacity

What We Offer:
Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

Learn More & Apply Now:
Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role.  Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

This position requires onsite work in Tucson, AZ: https://careers.rtx.com/global/en/raytheon-tucson,-az-location


#TestEngineering

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 107,500 USD - 204,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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