Entry Level Software Engineering Jobs in Tacoma, WA

Basic Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, or Engineering, Science, or Math.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:: Department of Defense Secret security clearance is preferred at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities for this Position
ROLE AND POSITION OBJECTIVES:
As an Software Systems Engineer / Integrator supporting Surface Ship Systems Programs, you will be an integral member of an agile engineering team committed to delivering robust, secure, and scalable infrastructure solutions for U.S. Navy surface ships.
In this role, you will design, configure, and integrate software solutions to address complex integration challenges, conduct manual testing and debugging in production-like lab environments, and develop clear technical documentation in support of a rigorous systems engineering process. You will participate in daily team collaboration to ensure commitments to the U.S. Navy mission are met with consistency and quality.
We encourage candidates to apply if they possess any of the following preferred qualifications: familiarity with Linux Server and/or Microsoft Windows Desktop and Server technologies; experience with scripting and automation tools such as PowerShell, Bash, and Ansible; and/or experience designing, configuring, and securing virtual machines using VMware or Proxmox.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Containerization & Software Delivery
Package, deploy, and maintain containerized applications using tools such as Zarf and related container orchestration frameworks. Deliver updates to systems through scripted and automated pipelines in support of continuous integration and delivery workflows.
Scripting & Automation
Develop and maintain automation scripts using Bash, PowerShell, and GitLab CI/CD pipelines to streamline integration, deployment, and system administration tasks.
Stakeholder Communication & Collaboration
Engage in frequent, professional written communication with internal teams and external stakeholders via email and collaborative platforms. Maintain and contribute to project documentation, task tracking, and reporting using Jira and Confluence - with the understanding that all entries are visible to customer stakeholders and must reflect professional standards.
Documentation & Reporting
Author and maintain clear, accurate technical documentation, integration reports, and in-application metrics dashboards. Familiarity with HTML is beneficial for contributing to web-based documentation and reporting interfaces.
Application Code Familiarity (Debugging Support)
Working familiarity with one or more of the following languages/frameworks is advantageous for debugging and integration support purposes: Java, Vue.js, .NET MAUI, and/or Go. HTML familiarity is also helpful given documentation and reporting requirements.
AI-Assisted Engineering
Identify and apply AI tools and technologies to improve engineering workflows, testing efficiency, integration processes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Quality Assurance & Integration Testing
Perform manual testing, debugging, and validation of software applications and integrated systems within a production-like lab environment. Identify, document, and track defects through to resolution to ensure system reliability and readiness.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Foundational understanding of software integration concepts, including the ability to diagnose and resolve issues across multi-component systems
• Working knowledge of Linux and/or Windows server environments, including configuration and basic administration
• Experience with or strong aptitude for scripting languages (Bash, PowerShell) and automation frameworks (Ansible)
• Familiarity with containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes, Zarf, or similar)
• Experience with or exposure to CI/CD pipelines, particularly GitLab
• Ability to clearly document technical processes, test results, and system configurations
• Strong attention to detail in both testing and professional communications
• Ability to work effectively in an Agile team environment using tools such as Jira and Confluence
• Foundational understanding of cybersecurity principles and vulnerability management practices
• Emerging awareness of AI/ML tools and their applicability in engineering and DevSecOps contexts

What sets you apart:

• Clear understanding of systems engineering concepts, principles, theories, and technical standards
• Information Technology (IT) skills or experience, including systems administration, scanning/vulnerability management, and supporting end-users
• CompTIA Security+ Certification (or ability to obtain)
• Creative thinker with ability to grasp and apply new information quickly and handle increasing responsibilities with growing complexity
• Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills
• Team player who thrives in collaborative environments and revels in team success
• Strong presentation and communication skills, both oral and written
• Commitment to ongoing professional development for yourself and others
• Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

Our Commitment to You:

• An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
• Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security
• Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
• Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
• See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:
This position is fully on-site.
While on-site, you will be a part of the Port Orchard, WA team.
Salary Note
This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Combined Salary Range
USD $77,843.00 - USD $86,358.00 /Yr.
Company Overview
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans