ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Cary, NC

Red Hat Inc.

Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$96K - $154K/yr

Practice defensive programming to deliver stable and high-quality software for Red Hat customers and upstream communities. * Communicate and collaborate with developers and teams inside and outside ...

Redhat

Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$96K - $154K/yr

Practice defensive programming to deliver stable and high-quality software for Red Hat customers and upstream communities. * Communicate and collaborate with developers and teams inside and outside ...

LexisNexis Risk Solutions

Software Engineer I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$59 - $99/hr

This entry-level position performs basic software development assignments within a specific software functional area or product line. QUALIFICATIONS: * BS Engineering/Computer Science or equivalent ...

New

LexisNexis

Software Engineer I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$59K - $98K/yr

This entry-level position performs basic software development assignments within a specific software functional area or product line. QUALIFICATIONS: BS Engineering/Computer Science or equivalent ...

LexisNexis

Software Engineer I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$59K - $98K/yr

This entry-level position performs basic software development assignments within a specific software functional area or product line. QUALIFICATIONS: • BS Engineering/Computer Science or equivalent ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDefense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Cary, NC

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Cary, NC salary details

$22.2K

$97.1K

$175.1K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Cary, NC is $97,146.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,200.00 and $111,200.00 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 Cary, NC?

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

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

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

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in Cary, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,146 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer

Barry-Wehmiller

Raleigh, NC

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

About Us:

BW Design Group is a fully integrated architecture, engineering, construction, system integration, and consulting firm committed to helping our clients realize their most critical goals from Strategy to Commercialization. As the only firm born from a manufacturing technology company to become an independent and fully integrated firm, we combine deep domain expertise in the manufacturing environment with an approach that is built to serve the dynamic needs of our clients. Rooted in our distinct culture of Truly Human Leadership, we cultivate the leaders who will define tomorrow and partner with our clients in the food & beverage, life sciences, industrial, and advanced technology industries to build the future of manufacturing and technology.


 

Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3 billion organization with nearly 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world.


 

Job Description:

Who You'll Work With

At Design Group,you'llcollaborate with experienced leaders, technical specialists, and subject matter experts to solve complex challenges for some of the world's leading companies.You'lljoin a growing team of more than 1,500 professionals across 45 U.S. offices whereyou'llbe empowered to make an impact, develop yourexpertise, and grow your career.

What You'll Do

In this role,you'llbe responsible fordeveloping software and data solutions that support industrial automation and manufacturing system integration projects.You'llwork closely with software engineers,controlsengineers, project teams, and client stakeholders to design, program, test, and deploy SCADA, database, analytics, and control system applications.This position plays an important role in helping clients improve manufacturing visibility and performance while giving you hands-on experience with industrial software, system integration, and site start-up activities.

  • Develop software control algorithms, data file structures, terminal displays, and data transmission applications

  • Program industrial applications using PLC languages, C#, Visual C++, scripting languages, and otherappropriate developmenttools

  • Develop, implement, debug, test, andmaintainsoftware for industrial automation and manufacturing systems

  • Design SCADA systems, databases, database interfaces, and related software components

  • Create data analytics, reporting, and scripting solutions that support manufacturing operations

  • Support programming and site start-up of integrated packaging line and process systems

  • Contribute to system integration and automation projects for consumer products and other manufacturing industries

  • Collaborate with controls engineers, project teams, clients, and vendors to deliver coordinated technical solutions

  • Document software requirements, system configurations, testing results, and project deliverables

  • Build project management and team collaboration skills through hands-on client work

What You'll Bring

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or a related technical degree

  • Academic project, internship, co-op, or entry-level experience with software development, industrial automation, control systems, databases, or related technical applications

  • Foundational knowledge of programming, debugging, data structures, databases, or software troubleshooting

  • Ability to organize and execute multiple project responsibilities simultaneously

  • Ability to travel for project requirements, including installation, start-up activities, client meetings, trainings, and industry events

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with industrial control software such as Wonderware, Rockwell, or Ignition, or familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, industrial networks, or .NET programming

  • Exposure to SCADA, MES, analytics, database, mobile, or virtualization technologies through coursework or projects

  • Coursework or project exposure to food and beverage, life science, industrial, or advanced technology manufacturing environments

Compensation

The approximate pay range for this position is$75,000-$90,000. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to background, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as geographic location of the position.


 

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying. We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work-therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions. Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.


 

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


Company:

Design Group

Apply