Entry Level Associate Software Engineer Jobs in Trenton, NJ

Department: Engineering

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Mount Laurel, NJ

Compensation: $74,000 - $150,000 / year

About The Role:

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking an Associate Software Engineer to be part of our Missile Defense team and based out of our Mount Laurel, NJ location. Leveraging advanced software automation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI‑driven capabilities, IDT accelerates capability development, enhances operational readiness, and reduces lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense. The company is dedicated to transforming defense systems through innovation, efficiency, and mission‑critical results.

• All applicants must be able to obtain and maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
• This is an on‑site position requiring at least five days in office at the Mount Laurel, NJ location.

• Develop, test, and maintain software applications and features.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to implement new capabilities and resolve software defects.
• Write reliable, maintainable code in accordance with engineering, security, and quality standards.
• Participate in code reviews, troubleshooting, and debugging activities.
• Integrate software components, APIs, and third‑party technologies into existing systems.
• Support software deployment, maintenance, and modernization efforts.
• Create and maintain technical documentation and development artifacts.
• Contribute throughout the software development lifecycle, from requirements analysis through deployment and sustainment.

Who You Are (Required):

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Aeronautical Engineering, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent professional experience).
• 0–3 years of professional software development experience.
• Experience developing software using one or more programming languages such as C++, Java, Python, or JavaScript.
• Familiarity with Git or similar version control systems.
• Familiarity with Linux‑based environments and command‑line tools.
• Familiarity with SQL and relational database technologies such as PostgreSQL.
• Familiarity with container technologies such as Docker, Podman, or OCI‑compliant containers.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Ability to travel up to 10% as required.

What Makes You Stand Out:

• Experience writing scripts for automation using languages such as Python, Bash, PowerShell, or Groovy.
• Experience maintaining, troubleshooting, or upgrading software applications and services.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and modern software development practices.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps concepts and secure software development principles.
• Experience working in Agile development environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document technical work and communicate project status effectively.
• Demonstrated initiative, willingness to learn new technologies, and ability to take ownership of assigned tasks.

Pay Range: $74,000 – $116,000 or $90,000 – $150,000. Pursuant to New Jersey Senate Bill 2310, IDT is required to disclose the pay scale associated with the posting. The posted range may not reflect actual compensation, which may depend on experience, skills, and education. The range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits.

Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):

IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack‑filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:

• Generous benefits package
• Competitive PTO
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
• 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
• Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
• Professional Development Resources
• Pre‑Tax Commuter Benefits
• Organization‑Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards
• Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.