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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

ARA

Senior Research Engineer - AI/ML

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$181K/yr

... and Defense communities. Application areas include software tool development, physics-based ... The scientist / engineer will join a multi-disciplinary collaborative team of engineers and ...

Signalscape

SDR Software Engineer

Cary, NC

$90K - $120K/yr

\n \n \n Signalscape has supplied engineering services and products used for defense, intelligence ... Our design services span many disciplines, including custom system design, software development ...

Emonics LLC

Entry Level Data Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$103K - $124K/yr

Entry Level Data Engineer We are hiring a Data Engineer to support the design and maintenance of data pipelines and ETL processes. The candidate will help manage large-scale data systems.

New

LJB, Inc.

Entry-level Roadway Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Utilize CAD software to prepare detailed engineering drawings and plans for roadway projects ... Other duties as assigned. ENTRY LEVEL ROADWAY ENGINEER ESSENTIAL CREDENTIALS: Required ...

Analog Devices

FPGA Systems Development Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$125K - $161K/yr

ADI combines analog, digital, AI, and software technologies into solutions that combat climate ... We are seeking a motivated, entry-level FPGA System Development Engineer to our Aerospace, Défense ...

Analogdevices

FPGA Systems Development Engineer

Durham, NC

$125K - $161K/yr

ADI combines analog, digital, AI, and software technologies into solutions that combat climate ... We are seeking a motivated, entry-level FPGA System Development Engineer to our Aerospace, Defense ...

ARA

Systems Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis ... The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. Employee ...

Berriehill Research

Systems Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis ... The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. Employee ...

Contemporaries

Data Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$57 - $63/hr

Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience in data engineering, software engineering ... Company Description Contemporaries is a government contracting firm who has been providing HR and ...

Signalscape

Senior Software Developer

Cary, NC

$120K - $170K/yr

\n \n \n \n \n Signalscape has supplied engineering services and products used for defense ... Our design services span many disciplines, including custom system design, software development ...

Clever Devices Ltd.

Associate

Apex, NC · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

As an Associate Software Engineer/Developer, you will be responsible for designing, implementing ... Strong written and verbal communication skills * Entry-level working knowledge and skill with ...

RoviSys

Entry Level Engineer/Developer

Holly Springs, NC

$80K - $82K/yr

... success! Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ... Design and implement industry software applications to aggregate manufacturing systems information ...

RoviSys

Entry Level Engineer/Developer

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$80K - $82K/yr

Responsibilities Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ... Design and implement industry software applications to aggregate manufacturing systems information ...

RoviSys

Entry Level Engineer/Developer

Holly Springs, NC

$80K - $82K/yr

Responsibilities Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ... Design and implement industry software applications to aggregate manufacturing systems information ...

Apex Systems

Integration Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$101K - $136K/yr

Apply software engineering rigor to integration development through version control, testing, and ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

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All JobsDefense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$23.3K

$101.9K

$183.7K

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Raleigh, NC is $101,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,200.00 and $116,600.00 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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Senior Research Engineer - AI/ML

Senior Research Engineer - AI/ML

ARA

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$181K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is actively seeking a highly qualified Research Engineer for the development of advanced AI/ML algorithms for the Intelligence and Defense communities. Application areas include software tool development, physics-based modeling, machine learning, simulation and optimization, probabilistic modeling, computer vision, and intelligent agents. The scientist / engineer will join a multi-disciplinary collaborative team of engineers and scientists.
We are seeking an experienced Research Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have an active interest in applying math/statistics/physics/engineering concepts to solve multi-disciplinary problems. Candidate will have strong analytical skills and will be capable of translating ideas and proposed solutions into software tools and algorithms. The candidate should be familiar with improving/optimizing/tuning existing algorithms as well as development of new algorithms from scratch. This will include software design, software development, and debugging / issue resolution. The candidate should demonstrate a hands-on approach to problem solving and must be willing to actively participate in evaluation of algorithm and system performance. Strong critical thinking, problem solving, and debugging skills are required.
Scientists / engineers who are passionate about applying their expertise to solve problems of national importance, have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and are seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth in a stable environment are strongly encouraged to apply.
Senior Research Engineer - AI/ML Position Requirements:
  • U.S. Citizenship (No exceptions; green card holders are not eligible)
  • Current TS/SCI clearance or TS/SCI eligible
  • BS in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field with 10-12 years of relevant work experience
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas: machine learning, physics-based modeling, simulation and optimization, uncertainty quantification, surrogate modeling and model reduction, computer vision, and intelligent agents
  • Strong foundation in software development and experience with Python, Java, and/or C++
  • Experience going from problem statement to prototype to production-ready algorithms
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills, capable of working effectively in a dynamic, team-oriented environment

Senior Research Engineer - AI/ML Preferences:
Above all, we value passion, a continuous desire to learn, and teamwork. We are confident that if you possess the right attitude, work ethic, and skill set, you will succeed in the role. In addition to the experience and skills above, if you have any of the following, you will be able to accelerate your effectiveness and impact.
  • PhD or MS in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field
  • Experience in cloud-based, parallel, or distributed computing.
  • Experience developing generative AI, agentic AI, and/or LLM-based systems
  • Experience leading small teams of researchers and engineers
  • Experience with proposal development and sponsor interactions
  • Ability and desire to quickly learn new domains.

Who is ARA?
Do you want to work for a purpose? Applied Research Associates, Inc. (aka ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company. We have been providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences since 1979. ARA has over 2,200 employee-owners and continues to grow rapidly. Together, our offices throughout the U.S. and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.
ARA also prides itself, on having a challenging culture where innovation & experimentation are the norm. The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. Employee ownership ensures you have a voice in what happens in the company. We are also very proud of our Women's Initiative Network (WIN), whose purpose is to motivate, support, and encourage professional career development for women to maximize career and professional accomplishments.
To find out more about what the Software Enterprise Division has to offer, visit our website at: https://www.ara.com/benefits/
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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