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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Madison, AL (NOW HIRING)

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission ... defense software systems • Familiarity with Agile software development methodologies • ...

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission ... complex defense system, with primary responsibility for improving software quality through ...

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission ... complex defense system, with primary responsibility for improving software quality through ...

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission ... complex defense system, with primary responsibility for improving software quality through ...

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Defense Software Engineer information

See Madison, AL salary details

$56.9K

$132.2K

$184.1K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Madison, AL is $132,177.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $155,000.00 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 Madison, AL? For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Madison, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Madison, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Madison, AL are:
What cities near Madison, AL are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Madison, AL with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Madison, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $132,177 per year, or $63.5 per hour.
Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

Lynx Software Technologies

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$133K - $178K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Principal Software Engineer
Location: Onsite - Huntsville, AL
Compensation: $160,000 - $200,000 + Bonus Eligible
Security Clearance: Active Secret Clearance Required
This position requires full time onsite in Huntsville, Alabama.
Who we are: Founded in 2004 with locations in Atlanta, GA, Fort Worth, TX, Denver, CO, & Huntsville, AL, Thompson Software Solutions (TSS) is a mission-driven aerospace and defense software and systems engineering company supporting the U.S. military, defense primes, and commercial space partners. We specialize in the development, integration, test, and deployment of safety & mission-critical software systems that power next-generation aircraft, defense platforms, and space technologies. Our team understands what it takes to modernize complex embedded systems while maintaining the rigor, compliance, and reliability required for mission and safety-critical environments.
As a defense-focused company of highly skilled and dedicated engineers, we take pride in solving complex technical challenges that directly impact national security and operational readiness. We partner closely with customers across the military aviation and space domains to deliver resilient, future-ready solutions with portability, sustainability, and long-term mission success in mind.
Description
Thompson Software Solutions is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to support the development of embedded flight software capabilities for an advanced missile platform. This role offers the opportunity to lead the design and integration of mission-critical software operating in high-performance, real-time environments where precision, reliability, and deterministic execution are paramount.
This position requires a software engineer to use a wide application of technical principles, theories, and concepts in the software field to develop, integrate, and test software products. The successful candidate will be a member of a high-performing multi-site team and must be self-motivated with a strong work ethic, time-management, and interpersonal skills. In this role, you will work independently at times on projects, at other times will be in a collaborative team environment with other software engineers, as well as other program development and deployment teams.
Selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Continued eligibility for access to classified information is required throughout employment, as dictated by program needs.
Basic Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in STEM discipline
• 8+ years of embedded software development
• Experience developing embedded software in C/C++
• Experience with I&T integration and test.
• Experience with Full Lifecycle Software Development
• Experience with (FSW) Flight software engineering
• Proficient with Linux and Windows development environments
• Ability to professionally communicate project status and collaborate on technical solutions with clients and peers
• Active Secret Clearance Required
• Ability to work onsite 100%
• Ability to travel 10%
Preferred / Additional Skills
• Proficient with Atlassian Tools (Confluence, JIRA, Bitbucket, etc.)
• Proficient in Python development
• Familiarity with Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE) concepts and tools (Cameo, AADL)
• Experience with Digital Simulation Development and integration
• Experience with safety-critical software development and practices (DO-178C)
• Experience with Navigation, Guidance and Control Implementation
• Experience with Signal Processing Implementation
• Experience developing Embedded Flight Software
• Experience communicating and documenting complex technical designs
• Ability to work in a collaborative and team-based environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills
Sound Exciting? Get in touch today! We have very robust benefits including:
  • Low-cost Medical / Dental / Vision coverage options
  • 401K with generous employer match
  • Responsible Paid Time Off + Paid Holidays
  • Remote work opportunities based on role
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Career growth and professional development opportunities

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
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