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Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance information

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

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software engineer secret clearance 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 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 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 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 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.
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Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs near you
Software Engineer, Data - Top Secret Clearance

Software Engineer, Data - Top Secret Clearance

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER, DATA - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE
As a Software Engineer in Special Programs, you will design, develop, and test key aspects of an in-house solution for analysis, simulation, and prototyping of software in support of all SpaceX flight systems. You will have full ownership of new features in a scalable, high-performance web application used to control and test flight systems. This is a high-impact role where you will work across the engineering groups to build a high-assurance system that accelerates the development and demonstration of cutting-edge software and hardware.
Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - rather, we look for smart, motivated software engineers who enjoy taking on complex challenges, work well in dynamic environments, and care about software best practices. Our software is critical to future mission successes, and we have no shortage of interesting challenges that require innovative, cutting-edge solutions.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop full-stack solutions to manage simulation and flight software, leveraging machine-to-machine interfaces
  • Develop data pipelines and structures that meet target design criteria and operate within technical constraints
  • Maintain the highest standards of excellence, never settling for the status quo

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, math, or an engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of experience in software development, developing applications in languages such as Python, C++, or Java
  • Experience with high throughput data pipelines

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Strong software design and development skills
  • Experience with JavaScript libraries such as Lit, React, and Redux
  • Experience with containerized solutions such as Docker and Kubernetes
  • Professional experience with Linux or Unix systems and tools
  • Experience with database systems such as Postgres, MySQL, or Oracle
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, data throughput analysis and unit testing
  • Strong creative and innovative problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment by quickly adapting to changing needs and requirements
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain one

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs.
  • Note that an active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions. If so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing.
  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year
Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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