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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Software Engineer

Lexington, MA · Hybrid

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Aquila Technology is seeking a Software Engineer to support one of the nation's premier defense research organizations. The role focuses on developing and deploying AI-driven automation frameworks to ...

Software Engineer

Lexington, MA · Hybrid

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Aquila Technology is seeking a Software Engineer to support one of the nation's premier defense research organizations. The role focuses on developing and deploying AI-driven automation frameworks to ...

Software Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Defense, intelligence community, and federal agencies. We focus on cyber-physical sensing, cyber ... The Cyber-Physical Systems Group, is seeking a Software Engineer to work on the full software ...

Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$106K - $168K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role Join our engineering team as a Software Engineer and help build the platform that ... Our software is used in critical industries like aerospace and defense, requiring robust, secure ...

About the Role Join our engineering team as a Software Engineer and help build the platform that ... Our software is used in critical industries like aerospace and defense, requiring robust, secure ...

Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$106K - $168K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role Join our engineering team as a Software Engineer and help build the platform that ... Our software is used in critical industries like aerospace and defense, requiring robust, secure ...

They are seeking a Software Engineer II to work in a small team, translating user requests into ... Founded in 2008, the company is headquartered in La Défense, FRA, with a team of 10001+ employees.

Software Engineer

Lexington, MA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Defense, intelligence community, and federal agencies. We focus on cyber-physical sensing, cyber ... The Cyber-Physical Systems Group, is seeking a Software Engineer to work on the full software ...

Software Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Defense, intelligence community, and federal agencies. We focus on cyber-physical sensing, cyber ... The Cyber-Physical Systems Group, is seeking a Software Engineer to work on the full software ...

Senior Software Engineer

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$133K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary & Responsibilities We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Software Engineer to ... S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this ...

Senior Software Engineer

Wilmington, MA

$133K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary & Responsibilities We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Software Engineer to ... S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$26.1K

$113.9K

$205.3K

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Boston, MA is $113,923.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $130,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level defense contractor software engineer?

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 types of projects and technologies do entry level defense contractor software engineers typically work on?

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 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 Boston, MA?

For Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,923 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Software Engineer

Aquila Technology

Lexington, MA • Hybrid

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Software Engineer

Clearance Level: Interim Clearance to be considered for this opportunity - Must be US Citizen

Location: Hybrid. Candidates in the Washington, DC metropolitan area or Lexington area are highly preferred.

At Aquila Technology, you will see our team’s passion every day, whether we are building a robust, policy-compliant IT system or stress-testing a system to identify gaps and security vulnerabilities. To own the advantage, we ensure our team owns results and gets the work done right the first time by deploying smart, purposeful solutions that work. Aquila is the right people with the right skills driving the right outcomes. We call this the Aquila Advantage.

About the Role:

Aquila Technology is seeking a Software Engineer to support one of the nation’s premier defense research organizations. The role focuses on developing and deploying AI-driven automation frameworks to aid in the reverse engineering of complex Linux-based embedded systems. You will design and implement intelligent emulation solutions using LLM-powered agents to automate configuration analysis, dependency mapping, and environment adaptation while reducing manual effort and ensuring system compatibility and reliability throughout the reverse engineering lifecycle.

Must Have:

  • Bachelor's Degree
  • 3 years Software/Algorithm Development
  • 3 years Emulation
  • 3 years Linux command line
  • 3 years Software Documentation
  • 3 years C/C++ Programming
  • 3 years C++11 or later, Stand Template Library,Boost library
  • 3 years GIT/GITHUB
  • 3 years Java Development
  • 3 years JavaScript Development
  • 3 years MVC frameworks (Struts, Spring MVC, Play)
  • 3 years Object Oriented Software Design and Development
  • 3 years Python
  • 3 years Software Design/Development
  • 3 years XML and SQL
  • 3 years Maven or Gradle, Git / Gitlab, Make / Autotools
  • 3 years Experience with Docker, Git, and CI/CD
  • 3 years Ghidra or IDA
  • 3 years Hardware and Software Integration
  • 3 years Linux internals

Nice to Have:

  • Air-Gapped Networks
  • Rust experience

Required Skills:

  • Programming languages: Python, C, C++, Java
  • Program analysis: Ghidra or IDA
  • Linux internals
  • Emulation
  • Systems programming
  • Docker, containerization
  • Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines
  • Linux command-line environments
  • Git workflows
  • Constrained environments: air-gapped deployment, local execution optimization
  • Experience leveraging LLMs and building autonomous AI agents
  • BS or BA in a computer science or related field

Nice to Have:

  • Rust, Go experience
  • Cross-compilation/tool chain customization

Benefits and Perks:
Aquila team members experience the opportunity to be part of a fast-paced, customer-focused, and technically innovative work environment. Aquila strives to deliver the best of the best in technical services to our customers. Candidates that possess a love for technical challenges, a desire to constantly learn, and the desire to establish themselves as critical players within a team will enjoy calling Aquila Technology home.
Our Perks Include:
PTO - 15 days (vacation/sick) 10 paid holidays - 6 standard (New Year’s, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas) - 4 floating holidays prorated based on your day of hire:

  • 1.5 paid days, or 12 hours, for approved volunteer work
  • 1 week of paid maternity/paternity LOA after 1 year of Full-time employment

Tuition & Training Reimbursement- 5K annually for pre-approved, Eligible full-time team members who have completed a minimum ofsix (6) months of employment may apply for tuition reimbursement for approved, job-related courses taken through an accredited college or university. Team members must achieve a grade of “B” or better to qualify for reimbursement.Aquila will reimburse up to $5,000 per fiscal year for tuition expenses only. Expenses related to training programs, certifications, books, materials, meals, transportation, or other non-tuition costs are not eligible under the Tuition Reimbursement Program. All tuition reimbursement requests must be submitted to and approved by the team member’s Manager prior to course registration. Reimbursement will be issued upon successful course completion and submission of final grades and proof of payment.

401K with Fidelity - Eligible to participate following 90 days of employment. Company match on employee contribution:

  • $1/$1 up to 3%, then .50 cents / $1 for 4th and 5th %s
  • Fully vested from day one
  • Company match does not apply to catch-up contribution

Cell Phone & Internet Reimbursed up to $150 monthly to cover cell phone, data, and home internet expenses. Aquila Technology will reimburse team members who work from home ONLY for cell phone/mobile device fees for work-related communications and/or operations each month. Employees eligible for this benefit must work remote 2 days a week or more to qualify.

Buy Your Own Device (BYOD) - Team members are eligible for reimbursement of up to $1,500 every three (3) years for the purchase of electronic equipment used to access corporate services. To qualify for this benefit, employees must have completed a minimum of six (6) months of employment and must agree to and sign the Device Minimum Configuration Form prior to reimbursement. Electronic devices eligible under the Buy Your Own Device (BYOD) program are limited to cell phones, laptops, and tablets.

Clearance Level: Interim sufficient to start, but ideally TS//SCI eligible as it will open up additional opportunities.
Work Location: This is a Hybrid position. Candidates in the Washington, DC metropolitan area or Lexington area are highly preferred due to the need to complete classified work. However, qualified remote candidates located outside the area will also be considered. All candidates should be able to travel to Ft. Meade or Lexington MA approximately 2 x month for 4 days. Candidates are expected to be able to work Eastern timezone hours.
Interview Process: Initial screening with 2 managers, and then a wider group audience for a second round. For local candidates, the second round interview will be in person. The group is open to doing Zoom interviews for relocation candidates.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer