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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Washington

Cornerstone Defense

Cloud Software Engineer 2

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$59.50 - $77.25/hr

Cloud Software Engineer 2 Location: Annapolis Junction, MD Clearance: TS/SCI w/ Polygraph ... Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ...

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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

What types of projects and technologies do entry-level software engineers typically work on in the defense contracting industry?

As an entry-level software engineer in the defense contracting industry, you will often work on projects related to embedded systems, simulation software, cybersecurity applications, or mission-critical systems. Technologies commonly used include programming languages like C++, Java, or Python, as well as specialized tools for version control, testing, and secure software development. You’ll collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including systems engineers, project managers, and, at times, hardware engineers. A key challenge is adhering to strict security protocols and regulatory standards, but you will gain valuable experience in secure coding practices and large-scale system integration. These projects provide a strong foundation for future advancement within the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or software engineering, with proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and compliance with security standards such as DoD STIGs or obtaining a Security+ certification may be required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this environment. These skills and qualifications are vital to produce secure, reliable software that meets strict governmental regulations and supports critical defense operations.

What does an Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer do?

An Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer works on developing, testing, and maintaining software systems used in defense applications. This role often involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to create secure and reliable solutions for military or government clients. Responsibilities might include writing code, debugging software, and ensuring compliance with security and quality standards specific to the defense industry. Entry-level engineers often receive mentorship and training to help them understand specialized technologies and protocols required for defense projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer vs Entry Level Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Defense Contractor Software EngineerEntry Level Software Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field; security clearance often preferredBachelor's in CS or related field; security clearance usually not required
Work EnvironmentGovernment contractors, defense agencies, secure facilitiesTech companies, startups, corporate offices
Industry UsagePrimarily defense, aerospace, government projectsBroad industry, including tech, finance, healthcare
Job FocusEmbedded systems, cybersecurity, defense-specific applicationsWeb, mobile, enterprise applications

While both roles involve software development, Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer typically requires security clearance and focuses on defense-related projects within government or military sectors. Entry Level Software Developer has a broader industry scope with less emphasis on security clearance, working on commercial applications across various industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Washington are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Software Engineer - JobID-0055

Software Engineer - JobID-0055

Innovative Defense Technologies

Arlington, VA

$90K - $184K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking a Software Engineer to be based in our Arlington, VA office. 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. 
 
Overview:
This position is based in our Arlington, VA office, with support to Government customer meetings and installations throughout the United States. You will join a team of dynamic, leading-edge software engineers, system integrators, and system engineers. You must have experience with complex systems and fluency with contemporary programming languages, development environments, and architectures. You will be a key contributor to the development and execution of fielded DoD systems, inclusive of primarily software, but also infrastructure, security, and operational design. The environment is challenging, and you will work within a to solve complex problems for this growing business. 
Software Engineer responsibilities include gathering user requirements, defining system functionality, writing code in various languages (C++, Java), and verifying software functionality through testing. The ideal candidate is familiar with the software development life cycle (SDLC) from preliminary system analysis to tests and deployment. This role requires full-time presence on-site at our Arlington, VA office.
 
All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active U.S. Security Clearance.

Key Responsibilities
Responsibilities Include:
  • Design, implement, and test software using multiple languages and technology stacks 
  • Explore and prototype next-generation solutions for DoD customers
  • Integrate software components into complex DoD software environments 
  • Support test and integration activities in IDT labs, as well as on-site customer labs 
  • Develop software interfaces to communicate across network protocols such as TCP/UDP, DDS, ActiveMQ, Kafka, RabbitMQ
  • Take leadership in developing user, functional, and technical requirements for software systems
  • Participating in and providing feedback in design reviews and code reviews
 
Minimum Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 3 years’ experience in software development
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics or equivalent full-time professional experience 

Skills Knowledge & Expertise
Required skills:
  • Strong proficiency in modern C++ or Java
  • Experience using Confluence and Jira in a software development environment
  • Experience with tactical DoD systems and tactical data networks 
  • Ability to decompose and document requirements and specifications 
  • Understanding of distributed systems, algorithms, data structures and software design patterns
  • Understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle 
  • Understanding of object-oriented programming 
  • Proficiency working with version control software like Git, SVN and software development environments 
  • Experience with software testing and configuration management 
  • Ability to convert vague customer requirements into a refined software solution
  • Ability to identify and describe algorithmic complexity 
  • Ability to work on-site with potential hybrid flexibility 
  • Ability to travel approximately 10%
Preferred skills:

  • Active DOD Clearance.
  • Proficiency in containerization (Docker, Podman, etc.) and orchestration frameworks (Swarm, Kubernetes, etc.)
  • Development, system integration, and test experience with complex DoD systems
  • Experience supporting and working with cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment
  • Experience with virtualization and containerization deployment technologies
  • Experience with deployment automation tools (SALT, Ansible, Terraform etc.)
  • Proficiency working with different SW development tools such as Jenkins, JFrog Artifactory, and Gitlab
  • Experience with creating and configuring Virtual Machines (VMware, VirtualBox, etc.)
  • Experience with basic network concepts like VLANs, IP addressing schemes, and static routing
Competencies:
  • Solid analytical abilities, coupled with a strong sense of ownership, urgency, and drive 
  • Problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate ambiguous situations 
  • Excellence in oral, written, and technical communication with peers and non-technical cohorts 
  • Initiative, creativity, reliability, teamwork 
  • Strong organization and planning skills 
  • Attention to detail 
 
Pay Range*: $90,000 - $150,000 or $114,000 - $184,000
This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience. 

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 
EEO Statement:
IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.