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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the ... Duties/Responsibilities • Assess hardware and software for security vulnerabilities using a ...

Software Engineer II - Marlborough

Marlborough, MA

$101K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. The mission of the software team in ... We are looking to add software engineers to our development team for a wide array of products ...

Software Engineer II - Marlborough

Marlborough, MA

$101K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. The mission of the software team in ... We are looking to add software engineers to our development team for a wide array of products ...

... of defense technology. WHAT YOU WILL DO: * Define and influence the direction of a small team ... Proficiency in algorithm design, software development, and mathematical modeling with programming ...

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$133K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... software engineer with exceptional software development and optimization experience. The ideal ... S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this ...

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$133K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... software engineer with exceptional software development and optimization experience. The ideal ... S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this ...

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$117 - $161/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related ... S. Department of State - Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. As such, applicants for this ...

The Full Stack Engineer will collaborate with defense and design teams to create user-centric ... Qualifications : Required : • Strong software development skills, specifically in Python ...

ATE Software Engineer II

Wilmington, MA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care ... Collaborate with ATE Hardware developers to ensure hardware / software cohesion throughout the ...

ATE Software Engineer II

Wilmington, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care ... Collaborate with ATE Hardware developers to ensure hardware / software cohesion throughout the ...

ATE Software Engineer II

Wilmington, MA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

We serve customers in industries spanning aerospace and defense, specialized vehicles, turf care ... Collaborate with ATE Hardware developers to ensure hardware / software cohesion throughout the ...

Showing results 41-60

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 16, 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 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 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 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 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.

Distinguished Cyber Software Engineer

Draper Inc.

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$150 - $275/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 hours ago


Job description

## Distinguished Cyber Software EngineerApplyremote type: Onsite Requiredlocations: Cambridge, MAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Yesterdayjob requisition id: JR002663**Overview:**Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.**Job Description Summary:**An Offensive Cybersecurity Engineer (DMTS) leverages an understanding of hardware, firmware/software, and existing or custom tooling to evaluate systems for vulnerabilities and/or to develop software to exploit and alter the behavior of a system. Offensive Security Engineers are responsible for both identifying and defeating modern defensive security techniques in both hardware and software to deliver software that can withstand environmental scrutiny. Works independently, in conjunction with defensive software or hardware cybersecurity professionals for red team efforts, or with other cross-domain professionals for targets that intersect other technical areas.**Job Description:****Duties/Responsibilities** • Assess hardware and software for security vulnerabilities using a breadth of technologies and techniques. • Develop software that meets behavior and security requirements for tailored applications. • Integrate software capabilities with other tasks or groups to improve performance or behavior requirements. • Create new tools and systems to detect and exploit vulnerabilities and system weaknesses. • Document nominal application and system functionality, in addition to implemented changes. • Independently drive solutions to complex, multidisciplinary problems with a deep understanding of a customer's strategic priorities. • Capable of helping customers shape their needs and develop requirements for programs that solve their most challenging technical problems. • Subject Matter Expert (SME) in offensive cybersecurity and cyber software development with broad knowledge across related technical disciplines. • Contributes to advancing State of the Art (SOA) solutions and techniques in their field. • Able to analyze Draper strategy and work with management to build capability in key areas to help sustain business growth. • Performs other related duties as assigned. **Skills/Abilities** • Curiosity-driven approach to solving complex, customer-driven problems as part of a multi-disciplinary team. • Collaborate and communicate effectively and openly with multi-disciplinary program team members, program leadership, and non-technical personnel. • Be a team player able to work in a fast-paced environment with the ability to balance multiple competing tasks and demands. **Education** Requires a bachelor's in computer science, computer engineering, or related field. **Experience** 15+ years experience in Cybersecurity or related field is required.**Additional Job Description:**Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Secret Clearance is preferred.Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.**Job Location - City:**Cambridge**Job Location - State:**Massachusetts**Job Location - Postal Code:**02139-3563The US base salary range for this full-time position is$100,000.00 - $275,000.00*Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations.* *Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.*Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.We are in the business of redefining what is possible. Join our inclusive, multidisciplinary team to engineer the groundbreaking solutions of tomorrow. Explore life at Draper with our unique culture and benefits at draper.com. #J-18808-Ljbffr