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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Siemens

Software Developer / Engineer

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$125K - $126K/yr

Software Developer / Engineer Salary: $125,785 - $126,500 per year Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, 40 Hours/Week Summary of Duties: Responsible for the successful development ...

Galois, Inc.

Research Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

... defense, healthcare, semiconductors, and fintech. Research Engineers at Galois design and develop ... About This Role Galois is hiring a Software Engineer/Researcher to join our team! This role will ...

Galois, Inc.

Research Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

... defense, healthcare, semiconductors, and fintech. Research Engineers at Galois design and develop ... About This Role Galois is hiring a Software Engineer/Researcher to join our team! This role will ...

micro1 AI

Bioinformatics Software Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · 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 ...

micro1 AI

Bioinformatics Software Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · 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 ...

Accelint

Test Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site +1

$90K - $107K/yr

Lyntris is a defense technology company that connects sensing to action across the connected ... Combining differentiated hardware, software and mission expertise, Lyntris helps customers sense ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Minneapolis, MN salary details

$25.1K

$109.5K

$197.3K

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Minneapolis, MN is $109,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,800.00 and $125,300.00 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 Minneapolis, MN?

The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Minneapolis, MN are:

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities -- Software Engineer Intern 2026

Maverick Software

Minneapolis, MN

$18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description


Join Maverick Software Consulting - Real Industry Experience While You Study!


Are you a student at theUniversity of Minnesota, Twin Cities with a passion for software development?


Maverick Software Consulting is hiringmotivated and talented students to work directly with our industry-leading clients - all while continuing your coursework.


What You'll Do: Help build and test real-world software using technologies like:

  • Java Software Development - Java, Spring Boot, Quarkus, IntelliJ IDEA, Eclipse, and related frameworks.
  • Microsoft Software Development - .NET Core, C#, Visual Studio, and cloud-based .NET solutions.
  • Web Development - HTML, CSS, JavaScript, TypeScript, React, Angular, Vue.js, and cloud-based hosting on AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
  • Cloud Development - AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, serverless architectures, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and DevOps pipelines.
  • AI & Machine Learning - TensorFlow, PyTorch, OpenAI APIs, Azure AI, AWS SageMaker, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision applications.
  • Automated Software Testing - Selenium, Playwright, Cypress, JUnit, NUnit, Apache JMeter, AI-driven testing frameworks, and CI/CD automation.

You will be part of a software development team helping our clients develop and test their software. We'll provide training, let you set your own flexible schedule, and give you hands-on experience that employers value.


We provide training to bridge the gap between academic learning and the practical skills needed for an entry-level software engineer. You'll gain real-world experience in software development and testing-not just 'busy' work-as an integral part of our clients' teams.


See what some of our students have to say: https://www.mavericksoftware.com/students

Qualifications:

  • Current Sophomore, Junior, or Senior with at least 13 months remaining before graduation.
  • Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field.
  • Availability: 20 hours per week during the school year, 40 hours per week over the summer.
  • Self-motivated, eager to learn, and enthusiastic about applying technical skills in real-world projects.

Apply