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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Cary, NC

Signalscape

Cyber Software Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

\n \n \n \n \n Signalscape has supplied engineering services and products used for defense ... Our design services span many disciplines, including custom system design, software development ...

Ascent Placement Partners

Be Seen First

Remote Software Engineer - Technical Advisor

Raleigh, NC · Remote

$150/hr

W2 Contractor Contract Length: 6 months, with possibility of extension Pay: $150.00 USD/hour ... A Software Engineer - Technical Advisor evaluates frontier AI coding models to identify where and ...

New

Dewberry

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... software, CAD drafting using AutoCAD software, drawing production, specification writing ... and contractors, working with architects and other clients, and working with others within the ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... software, CAD drafting using AutoCAD software, drawing production, specification writing ... and contractors, working with architects and other clients, and working with others within the ...

New

Signalscape

DSP Software Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

\n \n \n \n \n Signalscape has supplied engineering services and products used for defense ... Our design services span many disciplines, including custom system design, software development ...

Berriehill Research

Software Cloud Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$53 - $69/hr

Software Cloud Engineer Position Requirements: * U.S. Citizenship (No exceptions; green card ... S. and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense, civil, and health ...

ARA

Software Cloud Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$53 - $69/hr

Software Cloud Engineer Position Requirements: * U.S. Citizenship (No exceptions; green card ... S. and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense, civil, and health ...

Rfamec

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Cary, NC · On-site

$60 - $75/hr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) develops embedded software and electronics for our world‑class ... facility. Entry Level Electrical Engineer RFA Engineering is seeking an Electrical Engineer to ...

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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 4, 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.

Cyber Software Engineer

Signalscape

Cary, NC • On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

\n <\/head>\n \n \n
\n Signalscape has supplied engineering services and products used for defense, intelligence, and law enforcement services to combat crime, fight terrorism, and provide for homeland security. In our 20+ years, Signalscape is proud of becoming a premier provider of specialty wireless systems including audio, video, and data transmission systems for mission\-critical applications.
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\n Our expertise ranges from miniature single board solutions for one\-time mission critical applications to fully integrated intelligence platforms. Our design services span many disciplines, including custom system design, software development, hardware design, RF\/antenna design, rapid prototyping, manufacturing\/test, certification services, and project management.
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\n This role involves developing robust applications in a Linux environment, with a focus on DevSecOps practices. This role works in our Cary, NC office and offers a salary range between $120,000 and $180,000\/year.
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  • Design, develop, test, and maintain applications using Python for software\-defined radio technologies, focusing on GNU Radio\-like and REDHAWK frameworks.<\/span>
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  • Utilize Helm to manage and deploy applications within Kubernetes environments, ensuring effective scaling and orchestration of SDR\-related services.<\/span>
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  • Collaborate with security teams to incorporate security practices throughout the software development lifecycle, including threat modeling, vulnerability assessments, and automated security testing.<\/span>
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  • Build and maintain CI\/CD pipelines to automate testing, integration, and deployment processes, ensuring reliable and efficient software delivery.<\/span>
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  • Mange source code using Git, employing effective branching strategies, pull requests, and code reviews to uphold high code quality.<\/span>
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  • Apply understanding of RF signal processing, specifically related to satellite signals, to inform the design and implementation of SDR applications.<\/span>
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    Requirements<\/h3>\n
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    • Proficiency in Python for software development within a LINUX environment.<\/span>
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    • Experience with Helm for managing Kubernetes applications.<\/span>
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    • Strong understanding of GNU Radio and REDHAWK frameworks.<\/span>
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    • Familiarity with DevSecOps principles and practices.<\/span>
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    • Hands on experience with CI\/CD tools (Jenkins, GitLab, CI, CircleCI).<\/span>
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    • Proficient in Docker for containerization and orchestration.<\/span>
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    • Familiarity with RF signal processing, particularly with satellite signals and related technologies.<\/span>
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    • Understanding of networking concepts and protocols relevant to SDR applications.<\/span>
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    • Five to 15 years experience preferred.<\/span>
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    • U.S. Citizenship Required: Due to the nature of this position and the requirement to maintain a U.S. government security clearance, only U.S. citizens are eligible.<\/span>
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      \n <\/span>TS\/SCI with polygraph required
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      Benefits<\/h3>\n
      \n Signalscape offers a competitive benefits package including:
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      • Medical<\/span>
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      • Dental and Vision<\/span>
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      • Short and Long Term Disability<\/span>
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      • Employee Assistance Program<\/span>
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      • Educational benefits<\/span>
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      • Matching 401\-k plan<\/span>
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      • Flexible Spending Account<\/span>
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      • Health Savings Account<\/span>
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      • Term Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance<\/span>
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      • Voluntary Critical Illness and Accident Insurance<\/span>
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      • Health Care Support Program<\/span>
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      • Paid Time Off (PTO)<\/span>
        <\/li>\n <\/ul>\n
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        \n <\/div><\/span>
        \n <\/body>\n<\/html>

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