2

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Swarthmore, PA

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 ... software engineering or development experience. * Proficiency with C++ or Java * Strong ...

Software Engineer

Camden, NJ · On-site

$50 - $75/hr

The Judge Group is currently seeking several Software Engineers with an active clearance to support a new effort for US National Defense. For immediate consideration email your resume to - Robbie ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

See Swarthmore, PA salary details

$23.6K

$103.1K

$185.8K

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in Swarthmore, PA is $103,108.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,900.00 and $118,000.00 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 cities near Swarthmore, PA are hiring for Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near Swarthmore, PA with the most Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in Swarthmore, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,108 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Associate Software Engineer

ASRC Federal Holding

Moorestown, NJ • On-site

$72K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


ASRC Federal rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

242nd of 449 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 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.

What ASRC Federal employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom