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Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance Jobs in Chicago, IL

Apex Systems

Engineer Embedded Software 3

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Secret Clearance Role Overview We are seeking an Engineer for Embedded Software to support our RF Software department. This position involves the design, development, operation, and maintenance of ...

CGI Inc.

Software Developer - Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

What You'll Bring • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineer or related field • ... Dependent upon role and/or federal government security clearance requirements, and in accordance ...

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Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$24.7K

$108K

$194.7K

How much do entry level software engineer secret clearance jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software engineer secret clearance in Chicago, IL is $108,024.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $123,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level software engineer with secret clearance?

An Entry Level Software Engineer with Secret Clearance is a professional who has recently started their software engineering career and is eligible to work on projects requiring a U.S. government Secret security clearance. They typically assist in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications for organizations that handle sensitive information, such as defense contractors or government agencies. The 'Secret Clearance' indicates they have undergone a background check and are authorized to access classified information at the Secret level, which is necessary for many federal or defense-related technology roles.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level software engineers working on projects that require a secret clearance?

Entry level software engineers working on projects with a Secret Clearance often encounter challenges such as navigating strict security protocols and limited access to certain project details. These constraints can make collaboration and troubleshooting more complex, as not all information can be freely shared even within the team. Additionally, adapting to secure development environments and specialized tools may require extra training. However, these experiences also provide valuable exposure to best practices in secure software development and can accelerate your growth in high-demand, security-focused roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level software engineer with secret clearance, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Software Engineer with Secret Clearance, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, C++, or Python), software development principles, and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field, along with the ability to obtain or maintain a U.S. government Secret security clearance. Familiarity with development tools (e.g., Git, Visual Studio, or Eclipse), secure coding practices, and version control systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this collaborative and security-focused environment. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the delivery of reliable, secure software solutions while adhering to government standards and protecting sensitive information.

What is the difference between Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance vs Entry Level Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Software Engineer Secret ClearanceEntry Level Software Developer
CredentialsRequires a Secret Security Clearance, often a degree in Computer Science or related fieldTypically requires a degree in Computer Science or related field, no clearance needed
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, secure facilitiesPrivate tech companies, startups, corporate offices
Employer & IndustryPrimarily government and defense sectorsBroad industry including tech, finance, healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding security clearance requirements and job rolesGeneral software development roles without security clearance

Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance roles involve working in secure environments with a government or defense focus, requiring a Secret clearance. In contrast, Entry Level Software Developers typically work in private sector companies without security clearance requirements. The main difference lies in the security clearance requirement and the work environment, though both roles involve entry-level software development skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $108,024 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Engineer Embedded Software 3 with Security Clearance

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

ASD, Inc.
See more jobs at ASD, Inc.external

$132K - $174K/yr

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Engineer Embedded Software 3 to support our RF Software department. This position will serve on-site at Rolling Meadows. Responsibilities
Designs, develops, operates and maintains software components and computing systems software to be applied to and integrated with engineering, scientific and manufacturing requirements. Applies the appropriate standards, processes, procedures and tools throughout the system development life cycle to support the generation of such engineering applications and products such as laboratory simulation systems, aircraft protection and display systems, and electrical systems. Interfaces with other engineering functions and program staff. Basic Qualifications for Engineer Embedded Software 3 STEM degree
Experience with Object Oriented Programming in C++11
Experience testing, debugging, and integrating Embedded Software on target hardware using real time operating systems
Active Secret Clearance Preferred Qualifications for Engineer Embedded Software 3 BS Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering
Experience with Object Oriented Programming in C++11
Knowledge with scripting languages (Python, Batch, etc.)
Experience with Software development methodologies and frameworks such as Agile in a team environment.
Experience testing, debugging, and integrating Embedded Software on target hardware using VxWorks
Active Secret Clearance
Differentiating characteristics include demonstrated leadership and teamwork capability, interpersonal communication skills and activities.

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