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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs

Front Door Defense

$135 - $265/hr

Software Engineer (Defense) Develop scalable defense software from scratch and integrate with users in dynamic environments Location: Denver, Colorado Compensation: $135,000 - 265,000 USD / year ...

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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

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$24K

$104.9K

$189K

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor software engineer in the United States is $104,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $120,000.00 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.

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Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,863 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Entry-Level Software Engineer - Colorado Springs, CO

Davidson Technologies, Inc.

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$90K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Davidson is distinguished in the aerospace and missile defense industry, in part, because of its excellence in hiring exceptional experts, engineers and software developers dedicated to delivering advanced, intelligent technology solutions in defense of our nation.
Davidson is seeking an Entry-Level Software Engineer in Colorado Springs, CO. This position is an integral part of a fast-paced, innovative program involving system engineering and developing software for the Sentinel program. The program works cross-functionally and cross-site with innovative team members skilled in Software Engineering and Systems Engineering. The standard work schedule is 9/80. This allows for every other Friday off.
All team members should be able to:
  • Self-organize and participate in an Agile development lifecycle
  • Be able to build consensus within a cross-functional team
  • Provide design inputs and collaborate to decompose, estimate, and refine backlog requirements

Job Responsibilities:
You will work within an Agile team providing technical leadership for the integration of requirements and design for software-intensive systems. The software engineer role focuses on software design, development and unit testing to meet customer's emerging mission needs.
  • Interface with Scrum team on technical considerations for associated problems, issues or conflicts
  • Interface with chief architects to ensure technical requirements are met
  • Develop technical documentation to include activity and sequence diagrams

Job Requirements:
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in STEM related degree from an accredited college or university
  • 0-2 years of experience as software engineer
  • Experience with designing, developing and troubleshooting C++
  • Excellent organizational and facilitation skills
  • Self-starting mentality and willingness to take ownership of difficult challenges

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with the following:
  • Operational weapon software and embedded systems
  • Real-time operating systems
  • Git/GitLab
  • SysML, UML or other modeling languages
  • Atlassian tool suite: Jira and Confluence

Clearance:
  • Currently hold an active DoD Secret clearance or higher

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