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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

ECS

Software Engineer

Moorestown, NJ · On-site

The Software Engineer will design, develop, optimize, test, and document real-time radar software ... defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies. Our work powers mission-critical outcomes ...

Lockheed Martin

Software Engineer

Mount Laurel, NJ · On-site

The software engineer will help to test the software in a Kubernetes environment. The successful ... Who We Are Lockheed Martin is a global aerospace, defense, and security company dedicated to ...

Data Intelligence LLC

Software Engineer I

Moorestown, NJ · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

... national defense. This is a fully on-site position in Moorestown, NJ. The salary range for this ... related software engineering or development experience. * Strong problem-solving skills and ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$24.2K

$105.8K

$190.7K

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

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Philadelphia, PA is $105,816.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $121,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and technologies do entry-level software engineers typically work on in the defense contracting industry?

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, and why are they important?

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 Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA? For Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,816 per year, or $50.9 per hour.
Machinery Control Systems Software Engineer

Machinery Control Systems Software Engineer

R&P Technologies, LLC

Philadelphia, PA

$41.50 - $53/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

R&P is looking for a motivated individual who wants to join our team supporting the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Philadelphia Division in Philadelphia, PA. We are a small-sized defense contractor providing Engineering, Logistics, Program Management and Technical Services to government clients. We are seeking a Software Engineer to support the development, maintenance, and delivery of Machinery Control Systems (MCS) and On-Board Training software for U.S. Navy ships. The selected candidate will be interfacing with U.S. Navy civilian software and systems engineers, support contractors, U.S. Navy ships force, OEMs, and engineering management. The selected candidate will contribute to all aspects of the software life cycle including, but not limited to, requirements definition, software development, documentation, testing, deployment, technical support, and maintenance. This job is for onsite work at the NSWCPD facilities in the Philadelphia Navy Yard.


  • Develop and maintain working knowledge of Machinery Control Systems (MCS) and On-Board Training Software.
  • Design, develop, test, install, and maintain MCS and Training software and supporting software products.
  • Perform Java code development and Java 8 to 17 migration.
  • Work with MATLAB, Simulink, Simulink Coder (Real-Time Workshop), Microsoft Visual Studio, and Git version control.
  • Identify and document software and system related problems.
  • Resolve software problems through debugging, research, and investigation.
  • Provide distance and onsite support of software problems.
  • Prepare and maintain new and/or existing software requirements.
  • Write, review, and maintain technical documentation such as user manuals, product specifications, and training materials.
  • Participate in special projects as required.

Mandatory:

  • At least 3 years of Java developer experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer, Electrical or Electronics Engineering, Computer Science.
  • CompTIA Security+ certification.
  • DoD secret security clearance.
  • Ability to work daily in the office onsite at the Philadelphia Naval Yard.

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Experience with Java 17-25 development.
  • Experience with Java 8 to Java 17 migration (including records, sealed classes, and enhanced switch).
  • Experience maintaining/refactoring large legacy Java codebases (300k+ LOC).
  • Knowledge of PLC I/O mapping, ladder logic behaviors, and Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix.
  • Familiar with SCADA systems like FactoryTalk View, Ignition, or Wonderware.
  • Ability to learn PIMCS framework (Platform Independent Machinery Controls System ecosystem in NSWCPD).
  • Experience delivering software under CMMI Level 3+ or equivalent.
  • Decipher, read and understand code metrics for test coverage from Sonarqube.
  • Fluent and able to navigate in a Linux Operating System.

Working Conditions:

The work is typically performed at client site locations in an office environment or Control System Test Labs. Additional work may be performed onboard U.S. Navy Ships (pier side and at sea), which requires proper safety precautions and ability to go up and down shipboard stairways (ladders); work may require some physical effort in the handling of light materials, boxes, or equipment. 


R&P Technologies provides equal opportunity for all persons and prohibits discrimination in employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), veteran or marital status, or any other factor prohibited by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave, compensation, and training.

R&P maintains an Affirmative Action Plan to establish fair access to employment opportunities and to create a work community that is an accurate reflection of the qualified workforce. Due to security clearance requirements, U.S. citizenship is required for most positions


R&P offers a highly competitive compensation package that includes contributions towards health insurance, 401(k) matching, and other non-salary benefits. Exact salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

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