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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Genesis10

Entry Level Software Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

Now hiring for our Software Developer cohort starting in November 2026. To apply, please submit a formal application through our website: Dev10 Apply Here What We Require Willingness to relocate ...

BlackSpade

Software Engineer with DevOps

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K/yr

AI & DevOps Engineer (Elite Entry-Level Track) Salary: $70,000/year W2 with a guaranteed ... Traditional software roles are shrinking, but the demand for engineers who can manage Cloud ...

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Software Engineer (C#/React)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Active participation in the design and implementation of our software solutions - we use our ... Bachelor's degree (Computer Science or Engineering) or related experience * 2 - 4 years of ...

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Software Engineer (C#/React)

Chicago, IL · On-site

Active participation in the design and implementation of our software solutions - we use our ... Bachelor's degree (Computer Science or Engineering) or related experience * 2 - 4 years of ...

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Software Engineer (C#/React)

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Active participation in the design and implementation of our software solutions - we use our ... Bachelor's degree (Computer Science or Engineering) or related experience * 2 - 4 years of ...

DMC Engineering

Entry Level Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$83K - $95K/yr

This role is for any entry level engineer (0-3 years of experience). We have an exceptional onboarding and training program to help align your skillset with our technical offerings. Responsibilities:

DMC Engineering

Entry Level Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$83K - $95K/yr

This role is for any entry level engineer (0-3 years of experience). We have an exceptional onboarding and training program to help align your skillset with our technical offerings. Responsibilities:

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All JobsDefense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$24.7K

$108K

$194.7K

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Chicago, IL is $108,024.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $123,600.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $108,024 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Space Systems Embedded Software Engineer - Level 2 (TS/SCI)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL

$87K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: Top SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

At Northrop Grumman Space Systems, you will engineer the enduring icons of modern space exploration and global security, from manufacturing the vital Solid Rocket Boosters for NASA's Artemis missions and the engineering behind the James Webb Space Telescope, to pioneering on-orbit logistics with our uncrewed Cygnus cargo spacecraft and Mission Robotic Vehicle (MRV), alongside developing next-generation national defense constellations and strategic missile systems.

Northrop Grumman Space Systems (NGSS), Rolling Meadows, IL is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to add to its Software and Controls Department to contribute to full-cycle product development of new software subsystems and defense electronics as well as customization of current systems to support customer needs. As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be supporting a team of experienced engineers performing requirements analysis and system design, coding, test, and verification activities using state-of-the-art tools and techniques. These products and systems power the next generation of products. Our products are integrated with our customers' machines and systems, and many of the applications are highly customized and unique. We are interested in highly motivated candidates with embedded software design experience with a focus on software interactions with safety-critical real-time systems, digital signal processing, and secure software solutions.

This position is contingent upon the candidate obtaining final clearances and program access(es) within a reasonable period of time as determined by the company. Continued employment thereafter will be subject to maintenance at the level of clearance and program access required for the position in the future

This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off. This position is 100% onsite and cannot accommodate telecommute work

Basic Qualifications:

  • Active or Current Top Secret clearance with SCI

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or another STEM discipline from an accredited university and 2 years of related experience; OR Master's degree in the fields listed above.

  • Experience developing software in C/C++

  • Experience with scripting languages such as: Python, JavaScript, Perl, Unix/DOS shell scripts

  • Working knowledge of electronic test equipment (Oscilloscopes, signal generators, spectrum analyzers)

  • Experience with hands-on lab testing of electronic equipment

  • Basic understanding of digital signal processing concepts

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Working knowledge of RTOS (RTLinux, VxWorks, Integrity, FreeRTOS) concepts and operation

  • Experience with Linux Embedded real-time OS development (Yocto)

  • Experience developing in a hybrid Linux/Windows environment

  • Working knowledge of Atlassian tool suite (Jira, Confluence, Bitbucket)

  • Understanding of Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms and architectures

  • Experience developing software for microcontroller platforms (CortexM4, TI, STM, etc)

  • Experience developing drivers and BSPs for custom hardware platforms

  • Experience with System on a Chip (AMD, Xilinx, Altera) software/FPGA integration

  • Experience with digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms

  • Experience with hands-on hardware testing, debugging and board bring-up

  • Experience with GNU Radio and/or Redhawk SDR development

Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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