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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Memphis, TN

Varsity Brands

Software Engineer I

Memphis, TN · On-site

The Software Engineer I role is an entry-level engineering position responsible for contributing to the development of these various platforms. This high-growth role applies foundational software ...

Varsitybrands

Software Engineer I

Memphis, TN

The Software Engineer I role is an entry-level engineering position responsible for contributing to the development of these various platforms. This high-growth role applies foundational software ...

micro1 AI

Bioinformatics Software Engineer

Memphis, TN · Remote

$80 - $110/hr

Contractor Location: Remote micro1 is engaging Computational Biology & Cheminformatics Experts to contribute their expertise to a customer's computational drug discovery project. In this role, you'll ...

LeVanta Tech

Engineering Technician

Olive Branch, MS · On-site

$25/hr

... defense and commercial maritime operations. We're striving to protect the national interests of US ... Drone software programming and/or flight & piloting Job title: Engineering Technician Location:

LeVanta Tech

Engineering Technician

Southaven, MS · On-site

$25/hr

... defense and commercial maritime operations. We're striving to protect the national interests of US ... Drone software programming and/or flight & piloting Job title: Engineering Technician Location:

pcg

Associate Project Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Performance Contracting is seeking a motivated individual to join our growing employee-owned organization as an entry-level Associate Project Engineer for its Memphis-142 operations based in Memphis ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Memphis, TN

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Memphis, TN salary details

$23.3K

$101.9K

$183.6K

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Memphis, TN is $101,870.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,100.00 and $116,600.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Memphis, TN?

The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Memphis, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Memphis, TN?

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

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

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

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you

Software Engineer I

Memphis, TN • On-site

Varsity Brands
Executive Offices • 5 - 10K employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 62 rated fashion and textile manufacturers

Good employer

Respectful managers

Good training

Learn more about Varsity Brandsexternal

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 hours ago

Job description

VARSITY SPIRIT, A VARSITY BRANDS COMPANY - THE DRIVING FORCE IN SPIRIT ACROSS CHEER, DANCE, BAND AND YEARBOOK
For over 50 years, Varsity Spirit has been the leading global source for all things spirit, including cheerleading, dance team, performing arts and yearbook. Focused on safety, entertainment and traditional school leadership, Varsity Spirit's 5,000+ employees are dedicated to celebrating school spirit. A leader in apparel innovation, educational camps, clinics, competitions, and yearbook, Varsity Spirit impacts more than a million athletes each year.
OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY
At Varsity Spirit, the safety and wellbeing of the young people we serve is of the utmost importance. Since our inception 50 years ago, we have been - and remain - steadfastly committed to doing our part to create a safe and positive environment for our participants' physical, emotional, and social development, and promoting an environment free from abuse and misconduct. Varsity has a zero tolerance for abuse in its programs, events, and associated business activities. Varsity is committed to reporting all suspicions, allegations, and incidents of abuse in full accordance with local laws and reporting requirements. Learn more at Our Commitment to Safety - Varsity.com.
WORK TYPE: ON-SITE
LOCATION: Memphis, TN
HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:
Varsity Spirit supports a portfolio of modern applications and digital services that power key parts of the spirit experience, from product configuration and ordering to delivery and customer engagement. These applications work together through scalable, API-driven integrations and shared capabilities, enabling faster innovation, improved user experiences, and more efficient business operations.
The Software Engineer I role is an entry-level engineering position responsible for contributing to the development of these various platforms. This high-growth role applies foundational software engineering knowledge and exercises independent judgment in executing assigned work, including selecting appropriate approaches within established guidelines to build, test, and maintain software components.
WHAT YOU WILL DO:
  • Contributes to delivery of platform features and backend services that power critical business and customer experiences
  • Builds foundational capability to support scalable, cloud-based engineering environments
  • Establishes a pipeline of engineering talent aligned to Varsity Spirits' long-term platform strategy
  • Write, test, and debug code for applications, backend services, and APIs
  • Contribute to development of features and services within established architecture and engineering standards
  • Participate in code reviews and incorporate feedback to improve code quality
  • Troubleshoot and resolve development and lower-environment issues, applying sound judgment to determine appropriate solutions
  • Collaborate with engineering, product, and QA teams to deliver functional and reliable software
  • Follow established development workflows, security practices, and engineering standards
  • Contribute to documentation and knowledge sharing to support team effectiveness
  • Continuously build understanding of platform architecture, service interactions, and system design principles
  • Develop working knowledge of platform services, system interactions, and engineering patterns to support future growth into independent ownership

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
  • Quality and reliability of code delivered (defect rates, rework)
  • Timely completion of assigned work and deliverables
  • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues with increasing independence
  • Adoption and consistent use of engineering standards and development practices
  • Demonstrated growth in technical capability and system understanding

QUALIFICATIONS:
Technical Knowledge
  • Foundational knowledge of software engineering principles, including object-oriented programming and data structures
  • Basic understanding of APIs, application architecture, and databases
  • Familiarity with modern development environments and tools

Technical Skills
  • Ability to write, test, and debug code in at least one programming language (.Net preferred)
  • Foundational understanding of:
    • RESTful APIs
    • SQL and data handling
    • Version control systems (Git-based tools)

Cognitive & Problem-Solving Abilities
  • Applies logical reasoning to solve defined technical problems
  • Exercises independent judgment in selecting approaches within established guidelines
  • Identifies issues and escalates appropriately when needed

Collaboration & Communication
  • Communicates effectively within team environments
  • Actively participates in team collaboration and development processes
  • Incorporates feedback to improve performance and output

Learning Agility
  • Demonstrates ability to quickly learn new technologies and tools
  • Adapts to evolving engineering practices and environments

Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related technical discipline; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • 0-2 years of relevant experience (internships, academic projects, or early career roles)

Physical Demands and/or Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization. The company does not sponsor H-1B visas and will not provide sponsorship now or at any time in the future for this role.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without the need for current or future sponsorship.
#LI-JF1
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job.
JOIN THE BEST TEAM IN SPORT & SPIRIT
At Varsity Brands, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed and every educator wants to make a difference. It takes a team to make a real impact, and through our two divisions - BSN SPORTS and Varsity Spirit - and our network of 6,000+ employees and independent representatives, we are proud to partner with a wide range of educational institutions and club and professional sports to transform the student journey in SPORT and SPIRIT.
OUR VALUES
Service - We lead with heart. We champion community.
Passion - We love what we do. It fuels our purpose.
Integrity - We do what we promise. We own our actions and decisions.
Respect - We earn it by giving it. Because everyone deserves it.
Innovation - We never stop striving to be better. For ourselves and our community.
Transparency - We are committed to openness and honesty in everything we do.
OUR BENEFITS
We are committed to putting you and your families first. For benefits eligible roles, we offer a variety of choices and costs as well as program enhancements that align with our responsibility to elevate the employee experience. Some of our offerings include:
  • Comprehensive Health Care Benefits
  • HSA Employer Contribution/ FSA Opportunities
  • Wellbeing Program
  • 401(k) plan with company matching
  • Company paid Life, AD&D, and Short-Term Disability
  • Generous My Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Varsity Brands Ownership Program
  • Employee Resource Groups
  • Access to Financial Coaching and member-owned Credit Union
  • St. Jude Partnership & Volunteer Opportunities
  • Employee Perks including discounts on personal apparel and equipment!

Varsity Brands companies are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.

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