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Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance Jobs

... Entry Level Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of embedded software that controls machine operations and functions. Various development roles are available ...

... Entry Level Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of embedded software that controls machine operations and functions. Various development roles are available ...

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Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance information

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$24K

$104.9K

$189K

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

As of Aug 26, 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 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.

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Cities with the most Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance job openings:

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The most popular types of Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Software Engineer Secret Clearance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 14% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $104,863 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Security Software Engineer - Top Secret Clearance

InvestedintheMission

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$130 - $180/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


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.

SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE
As a Security Software Engineer for the Special Programs team, you will contribute to the software development lifecycle for both application and hardware systems, particularly in U.S. Government and ITAR-controlled environments. Expertise in cybersecurity fundamentals and familiarity with ITAR regulations will be beneficial to securely handle ITAR-controlled technical data and payloads. A successful Security Software Engineer will see the big picture, prioritize accordingly, and be comfortable working at different levels of abstraction. Ideal candidates will have notable skills in one or more of the following:
  • Application security
  • Applied cryptography
  • Network security
  • Operating system security
  • Secure/authenticated boot
  • Incident response and adversary detection
  • Vulnerability research

Being flexible, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams are paramount to success here. If you are passionate about building quality products, love the challenges of outsmarting adversaries, and want to make an impact on an interplanetary scale, then you will fit right in.

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Maintain existing production systems and improve security posture via both direct implementation and recommendations to other teams.
  • Build prototypes and help identify, design, and test security improvements.
  • Implement and promote secure coding practices and software development security methodologies throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Implement and enforce secure coding practices (SAST, DAST, threat modeling) throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Work closely with software engineers to set software needs, ensure hardware and software integrate smoothly, troubleshoot and fix major system problems.
  • Partner with various teams to define software requirements, system design, and integration strategies.
  • Review and guide software development for ITAR-controlled payloads, following all export laws and company rules strictly.
  • Ensure all software work and outputs meet U.S. Government standards and ITAR regulations.
  • Handle ITAR systems extensively, including controlling access to sensitive technical data and complying with all relevant rules.
  • Create and update detailed software documentation, including design specs, test plans, verification steps, and reports needed for U.S. Government contracts and ITAR compliance.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM discipline; or 2+ years of professional experience in security software development in lieu of a degree.
  • Experience with one or more software development languages (i.e. Python, C++, Rust).
  • Experience designing and implementing security solutions for operating systems, distributed systems, or other enterprise/large-scale infrastructure.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience contributing security improvements to complex systems.
  • Fundamental understanding of network protocols; including the TCP/IP stack as well as UDP based protocols.
  • Experienced in navigating large, complex, interactive systems.
  • Flexibility, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team.
  • Demonstrated ability to deal with ambiguity and to learn new technologies quickly.
  • Experience with U.S. Government contracts, including knowledge of government standards and procurement processes.
  • Deep knowledge and practical experience with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
  • Experience with software version control (e.g., Git), CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for troubleshooting complex software-hardware integration issues.
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance.
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:
Security Software Engineer /Level I: $130,000.00 - $155,000.00/per year
Security Software Engineer /Level II: $150,000.00 - $180,000.00/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.

  • long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards
  • potential discretionary bonuses
  • the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • 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
  • various other discounts and perks
  • 3 weeks of paid vacation
  • 10 or more paid holidays per year
  • 5 days of sick leave per year
  • Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to the Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law

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 Affirmenative 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.

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.

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