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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Albuquerque, NM

Software Engineer III

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$53.75 - $72/hr

... government contractor empowering its customers with innovative solutions for more than three ... MELE's services include National Security and Intelligence, CBRNE Defense and Security, Facility ...

... government contractor empowering its customers with innovative solutions for more than three ... MELE's services include National Security and Intelligence, CBRNE Defense and Security, Facility ...

Software Engineer III

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$53.75 - $72/hr

... government contractor empowering its customers with innovative solutions for more than three ... MELE's services include National Security and Intelligence, CBRNE Defense and Security, Facility ...

... government contractor empowering its customers with innovative solutions for more than three ... MELE's services include National Security and Intelligence, CBRNE Defense and Security, Facility ...

S. Defense, Aerospace, Human Factors, and Security markets. As a member of our team, you will ... As this Modeling and Simulation Software Engineer, you could expect to: Collaborate with agile ...

S. Defense, Aerospace, Human Factors, and Security markets. As a member of our team, you will ... As this Modeling and Simulation Software Engineer, you could expect to: Collaborate with agile ...

Software Engineer II

Albuquerque, NM

$94K - $129K/yr

Industry experience in defense? Not required -- we'll invest in you. If you meet the minimum ... At Raytheon's Software Engineering Directorate (SWE) Effectors Center (EC), we deliver innovative ...

Software Engineer II

Albuquerque, NM

$94K - $129K/yr

Industry experience in defense? Not required -- we'll invest in you. If you meet the minimum ... At Raytheon's Software Engineering Directorate (SWE) Effectors Center (EC), we deliver innovative ...

Entry Level Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Job ID: 00000275216 Date Posted: 2022-02 ... defense, space and security systems. We are engineers and technicians. Skilled scientists and ...

Entry Level Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Job ID: 00000275216 Date Posted: 2022-02 ... defense, space and security systems. We are engineers and technicians. Skilled scientists and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Albuquerque, NM salary details

$23.3K

$101.6K

$183.2K

How much do entry level defense contractor software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Albuquerque, NM is $101,646.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $116,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM? For Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

Software Engineer III

MELE Associates

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$53.75 - $72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Software Engineer to support the Office of Personnel and Facility Clearances and Classification (OPFCC), NA-74.  The OPFCC is responsible for implementing all Department of Energy (DOE) personnel security and facility clearance requirements for all National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) field sites.  This full-time position is contingent upon contract award.

Essential Functions:

  • Interpret requirements and create technical solutions with programming code, databases and user interfaces
  • Abide by NA-IM security and process requirements
  • Ensure requirements and acceptance criteria are well known to the team
  • Preparation of business requirement documents as directed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science
  • Three (3) years of experience in a software engineering role. Experience may be substituted for education on  a year for year basis.
  • Experience working in the Agile methodology
  • Knowledge of Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) processes and best practices
  • Superior communication, organizational, interpersonal, and writing skills.
  • Strong aptitude for critical thinking
  • Current and active DOE Q Clearance/Top Secret Clearance with ability to acquire an SCI.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in computer science or CSM certification
  • Experience with DOE/NNSA

 This position is contingent upon contract award.

LOCATION: This is a full-time position in Albuquerque, NM 87123 USA

 #OPT

SALARY: Salaries are determined based on several factors including external market data, internal equity, and the candidate’s related knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position.

 Benefits MELE Offers

  • Employer-paid employee Medical, Dental and Vision Care.
  • Low-Cost Family Health Care offered.
  • Federal Holidays and three (3) weeks’ vacation
  • 401(k) with Employer Match
  • Cross-training opportunities

About MELE Associates, Inc.
With over 300 employees and offices in Rockville, MD, Washington, DC, and Albuquerque, NM, MELE is a veteran and minority-owned government contractor empowering its customers with innovative solutions for more than three decades. MELE has team members located across the U.S. and has served more than a hundred countries across hundreds of project locations. The company offers technical, engineering, and programmatic support expertise to a host of U.S. federal and international agencies, including, but not limited to, the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, INTERPOL, and the International Atomic Energy Agency. MELE’s services include National Security and Intelligence, CBRNE Defense and Security, Facility Management and Engineering, Law Enforcement and Emergency Response Training, Technical, Analytica, and Program Management Support, and IT/Cybersecurity.


MELE Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. MELE Associates, Inc. is an E-Verify employer.