Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Huntsville, AL

DESE Research, Inc. is seeking a Software Engineer (Junior to Mid-Level) to support mission-critical software development efforts in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment. This role requires strong C++ development experience, a passion for software quality, and the ability to develop and implement robust unit testing methodologies for complex software systems. If you meet these qualifications, we encourage you to apply!

The candidate will support the sustainment and enhancement of an existing software baseline for a complex defense system, with primary responsibility for improving software quality through comprehensive unit testing, automation, and repeatable software development practices. Development efforts will primarily be performed in C++, with the potential to support Ada-based software components as required.

This role includes reviewing existing software and unit tests, identifying gaps in test coverage, developing new automated unit tests, and helping establish a repeatable testing methodology that integrates into daily build and regression test cycles. The successful candidate will work closely with software engineers, systems engineers, quality assurance personnel, and customer representatives to improve software reliability while supporting ongoing software development and modernization efforts.

A successful candidate will possess strong software engineering fundamentals, demonstrate sound technical judgment, communicate effectively with technical teams and customers, and thrive in a collaborative engineering environment.

• Develop, modify, and maintain software primarily in C++
• Support Ada software development efforts as required
• Review existing unit tests and evaluate software test coverage
• Design, develop, and implement new unit tests for existing software components
• Improve automated testing capabilities to support repeatable daily build and regression testing
• Analyze software defects, troubleshoot failures, and implement corrective actions
• Participate in software design reviews, code reviews, and technical discussions
• Collaborate with software, systems, QA, and DevOps engineers to improve software quality and maintainability
• Contribute to software documentation, testing standards, and engineering best practices
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on software reliability, automation, and long-term sustainment

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• Strong experience developing software in C++
• Experience troubleshooting software defects and supporting software integration activities
• Understanding of software development lifecycle processes, software quality practices, and configuration management
• Experience working within collaborative software development teams using peer reviews and version control
• Ability to work independently while supporting a customer-facing engineering environment
• Active Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one

• Experience developing software in Ada
• Experience supporting legacy software modernization efforts
• Experience with automated testing frameworks and regression testing
• Experience integrating automated testing into CI/CD or daily build environments
• Experience supporting complex real-time, embedded, or defense software systems
• Familiarity with Agile software development methodologies
• Experience with static code analysis, code coverage tools, or software quality metrics
• Experience developing unit tests for complex software systems
• Familiarity with automated testing, regression testing, and build/test workflows

For the past 43 years, DESE has provided industry-leading technical and engineering solutions in the fields of Defense, Energy, Space, and Environment. As a small, family-oriented business, DESE provides a compelling benefits package including a generous profit-sharing plan, competitive salaries, and perhaps most importantly, the opportunity to work alongside talented engineers leveraging cutting-edge technologies to solve complex and engaging problems.

At DESE, we are committed to creating a company that is known for its respect and care for employees. We understand that happy employees are what keeps our business going and we strive to provide the best opportunities for each individual working on our team! Here are a few reasons you will love working here:

• Competitive health, dental and vision insurance with affordable premiums
• Flexible work schedules
• Two different flexible spending account options
• Company paid life insurance with options for employee-paid additional coverage
• Performance bonus program
• Education reimbursement program
• Company paid personal leave for approved philanthropic activities
• Vacation, Sick & Holiday leave
• Robust 401(k) profit-sharing plan
• Opportunities for internal promotions
• Employee referral incentive program
• Rewards and gifts for service anniversaries

Disability Accommodation for Applicants – DESE Research, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in its job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and need an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at hrandsecurity@dese.com or 256-837-8004 x123.