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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Rochester, MI (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer

Warren, MI ยท On-site

$86.90K - $198K/yr

R0240442 Software Engineer The Opportunity: Performs implementation, regular problem solving ... Experience with Department of Defense software * Secret clearance * Master's degree Clearance:

Embedded Software Engineer

Southfield, MI ยท On-site

$120.60K - $158.70K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer Step into a high-impact Embedded Software Engineer opportunity with a confidential client, where you will help drive meaningful results across Aerospace / Defense ...

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Software Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI ยท On-site

$50.71 - $56.51/hr

Interface with Systems Engineering, Project Management, Software Quality, and other internal teams ... Previous defense industry experience. * Experience with ground combat vehicle network architecture ...

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Novi, MI ยท On-site

$116.80K - $153.10K/yr

Senior Embedded Software Engineer Step into a high-impact Senior Embedded Software Engineer ... Defense,Automotive/ Motor Vehicles,Electrical Equipment & Components,Electronics/ Semi-conductors ...

Waltonen Engineering is looking for a Vehicle Software Engineer to join our team! Responsibilities ... Previous experience with defense/military vehicles preferred but not mandatory * Bachelor's Degree ...

Waltonen Engineering is looking for a Vehicle Software Engineer to join our team! Responsibilities ... Previous experience with defense/military vehicles preferred but not mandatory * Bachelor's Degree ...

Familiarity with defense or combat vehicle systems Education: * Bachelor's degree in STEM field Preferred Education: * Degree in Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or ...

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Defense Software Engineer information

See Rochester, MI salary details

$58.4K

$135.8K

$189.2K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Rochester, MI is $135,788.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,500.00 and $159,200.00 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 job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Rochester, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Rochester, MI are:
What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Rochester, MI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,788 per year, or $65.3 per hour.

Software Engineer

Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace Inc

Birmingham, MI โ€ข On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

KDA, Inc, headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, has been operating in the United States for more than 20 years. We produce world-leading Remote Weapon Systems (RWS) for the US Army, Marine Corps, and allies at our Johnstown, Pennsylvania factory. We have delivered more than 20,000 PROTECTOR RWS to 28 countries. The National Advanced Surface-to-Air System (NASAMS) is a highly mobile and tailorable capability that protects the airspace of 13 countries and Washington, DC. In 2027, we will do final assembly, test, and sustainment of the Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile systems at a new factory in southern Virginia.

Join us, and youโ€™ll be part of a high performing team that develops advanced technology solutions to protect people and critical infrastructure in countries around the world. Explore your potential and discover what your future could be with Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace, Inc.

Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace, Inc. is seeking an experienced Software Engineer to join our team in Mount Arlington, NJ or Birmingham, MI. In this role, you will take a key part in developing advanced C4I software that supports both domestic and international defense systems, contributing directly to Kongsbergโ€™s longโ€‘standing record of successful system development. We are looking for a detailโ€‘oriented and highly motivated engineer with strong C++ expertise and at least 8 years of professional software development experience. The ideal candidate will also bring solid skills in networking, system integration, and troubleshooting highโ€‘performance applications, along with a passion for building reliable, missionโ€‘critical technology.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct software engineering to include requirements analysis, design, development, implementation, integration, and testing.
  • Practice a disciplined approach to Software Engineering. Use of and understanding development methodologies including Agile, DevOps, CI/CD pipelines. UML a plus.
  • Review and define requirements. Apply thorough requirements analysis prior to implementation.
  • Design and implement software components based on software architecture.
  • Proficient programming primarily in C++ with scripting. Develop applications in Windows and for embedded VxWorks.
  • Test developed software at multiple levels including unit test, integration, verification and validation to remove errors and verify the software meets requirements while confirming the design is accomplished.
  • Perform integration and formal system level test for qualification, deployment activities.
  • Perform software configuration management.
  • Significant support for system level field integration activities, including off site travel multiple times a year.
  • Undertake in-country software support and software upgrades through system sustainment.

ANY ADDITIONAL, PERIODIC OR OCCASIONAL DUTIES:

  • Other duties as assigned

EQUIPMENT USED IN JOB:

  • General office equipment, Windows, VxWorks, Visual Studio, C++, Jira, BitBucket, Git, Jenkins, Cmake, Confluence, MagicDraw

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Computer Science, or Masterโ€™s Degree in Computer Science or similar field required.

NUMBER OF YEARS AND TYPES OF EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

  • Significant software development experience to include requirements analysis, design, development, implementation, integration of system and subsystems, and test.
  • Minimum 8 yearsโ€™ experience as a Software Engineer using C++.
  • Aerospace & Defense sector related employment history highly desired, including development of code and integration of complex software systems.
  • Proficiency in object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms.
  • Experience in software development using middleware like OMG Distributed Data Service (DDS), or Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) such as VICTORY Standard, computer networking (i.e., TCP/IP, UDP), software integration or other related areas.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills including ability to collaborate with both internal and external customers.
  • Take lead on field integration related activities to successfully accomplish product capability demonstrations.
  • Implementation experience to mitigate cyber security threats is desirable.
  • Experience with software security.

MINIMUM LEARNING TIME FOR THIS POSITION PROVIDED EMPLOYEE HAS NECESSARY EXPERIENCE:

  • 6 months.

OTHER POSITION CONSIDERATIONS:

  • Must have or be able to obtain a US Passport.
  • Ability to travel, both internationally and domestically, as needed for purposes of installation, system integration, verification and demonstration of products.
  • Must be able to work as part of a team; positive โ€œcan-doโ€ attitude.
  • Flexible in ability to change priorities in order to accomplish changing team/corporate deadlines and goals.

Initial travel requirements include:

  • Required training in Norway; estimated to be 3 months of total travel time to Norway during first year.
  • Trips will range from 2 weeks to 1 month in duration.


Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace Inc. is part of Kongsberg Gruppen (KONGSBERG), an international knowledge-based group that supplies high technology systems and solutions to its customers engaged in oil and gas production, the merchant marine, and the defense and aerospace industries. Kongsberg Protech Systems USA performs final assembly and testing of Remote Weapon Stations. The company also performs repair and overhaul (R&O) of Remote Weapon Stations that come back from field operations.

In addition to competitive wages, we provide an excellent package of benefits, which presently includes company-paid health, vision and dental insurance, 401(k) with competitive match, a 9/80 work schedule, life insurance and paid time off (PTO).

Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace, Inc. 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. Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace, Inc. 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 Veteransโ€™ Readjustment Assistance Act.


Job Type: Full-time

Pre-employment Requirements:

KDA, Inc. requires all candidates to successfully complete a preโ€‘employment physical, drug and alcohol screening, and a background investigation as part of the hiring process.


Benefits:

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Flexible schedule

Flexible spending account

Health insurance

Health savings account

Life insurance

Paid time off

Referral program

Tuition reimbursement

Vision insurance


Schedule:

Day shift

980 schedule

Monday to Friday


Ability to commute/relocate:

Mount Arlington, NJ or Birmingham, MI: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required).


Education:

Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Computer Science, or Masterโ€™s Degree in Computer Science or similar field required.


Experience:

Significant software development experience to include requirements analysis, design, development, implementation, integration of system and subsystems, and test.

Minimum 8 yearsโ€™ experience as a Software Engineer using C++.


Willingness to travel:

Required training in Norway; estimated to be 3 months of total travel time to Norway during first year.

Trips will range from 2 weeks to 1 month in duration.

Ability to travel, both internationally and domestically, as needed for purposes of installation, system integration, verification and demonstration of products.