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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Noblis

Software Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

S. Navy civilian software and systems engineers, support contractors, U.S. Navy ships force, OEMs ... We work with a broad range of government agencies in the defense, intelligence, and federal ...

GWYNEDD

EDM OPERATOR

North Wales, PA

$19.25 - $26/hr

Company Overview: Gwynedd Manufacturing is a rapidly growing defense contractor and ... Department of Defense and federal law enforcement agencies with precision-engineered firearms ...

YO AI Labs

AI Software Engineer - Remote

Philadelphia, PA · Remote

$80 - $120/hr

Contractor (~15 hours/week) Location: Remote Job Summary We are seeking experienced Senior Software Engineers to support an AI training project by creating reinforcement learning environments that ...

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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 Sep 8, 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 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 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 August 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.

Associate Software Engineer with Security Clearance

ASRC Federal

Moorestown, NJ • On-site

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

ASRC Federal rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

244th of 453 rated engineering

Job description

ASRC Federal is a leading government contractor furthering missions in space, public health and defense. As an Alaska Native owned corporation, our work helps secure an enduring future for our shareholders. Join our team and discover why we are a top veteran employer and Certified Great Place to Work™ ASRC Federal Mission Solutions is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical defense systems. We are seeking highly motivated junior level Software Engineers to support the continued development and sustainment of the U.S. Navy's Aegis Weapons System in Moorestown, NJ. Responsibilities: Work in a collaborative team using agile development methodology, performing the following tasks: Performs subsystem definition, preliminary and detailed design, design implementation, subsystem and system integration, and testing. Participates in software requirements review, preliminary and critical design reviews, integration readiness review, and software acceptance reviews. Research problems and develop solutions. Requirements: * Bachelor's degree (in Engineering, Computer Science, Math, Physics, or related field) or equivalent related work experience * This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a government secret clearance, U.S. Citizenship is required * This position requires the successful applicant to obtain and maintain the required security clearance or other authorization(s) within the necessary timeframe required by applicable contract(s) * 0-2 years-experience in Real time mission critical development, maintenance, or support in an Open/Layered Architecture Environment; Operating Environments; Model-based tools; Information Assurance; Tools Development; Safety Analysis; Real-Time System Data Analysis; Problem Analysis; System Integration * Experience with Object Oriented design/development including the employment of Design Patterns to facilitate the utilization of software insulation techniques and plugins * Experience developing software with Java, C++, or Python. Experience working with the Windows, Solaris, and LINUX environments * Experience developing Solaris, and other variants of UNIX scripts. Strong skills with MS Office and Integrated Development Environments (IDE) such as Eclipse. Familiar with UML syntax and its use. Familiar with driver-based and automated test environments * Experience with the following tools are considered a plus: Clearcase (Version Control Software), JIRA (Project Management Tool), xUnit Framework, Junit and CPPUnitLite, CMMI Level 5 Life Cycle Processes and Procedures, Assemblers We invest in the lives of our employees, both in and out of the workplace, by providing competitive pay and benefits packages. Benefits offered may include health care, dental, vision, life insurance; 401(k); education assistance; paid time off including PTO, holidays, and any other paid leave required by law. The salary offered will depend on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, education, geographic location, internal equity, business needs, and other factors permitted by law. Posted pay ranges are a general guideline only and are not a guarantee of compensation or salary. EEO Statement ASRC Federal and its Subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, gender, color, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, national origin, religion, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, or any other factor prohibited by applicable law.

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