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Freelance Navy Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SEACORP

Software Engineer IV - AI

Middletown, RI · On-site

SEACORP is seeking to fill a Software Engineer IV - AI position to support the development, integration, testing, and sustainment of modern US Navy software systems using advanced AI-assisted ...

Ignite Digital

Engineer/Scientist I

Chesapeake, VA

$70K/yr

This role supports engineering, software development, testing, and system support tasks that enable missioncritical Navy and joint operational capabilities. The ideal candidate brings strong ...

Ignite Digital

Engineer/Scientist II

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$80K/yr

Ignite Digital is seeking an experienced Engineer/Scientist II to provide engineering, systems support, and software development expertise for a US Navy software maintenance initiative in the Norfolk ...

Ignite Digital

Engineer/Scientist IV

Chesapeake, VA

$120K/yr

Perform complex software maintenance activities across US Navy-related systems and solutions ... Engineering * Physics * Network Security * Information Systems * Computer Science Software Engineer ...

Nexagen Networks, Inc.

Software Engineer

Norfolk, VA

$130K - $150K/yr

S. Navy by designing, developing, and maintaining mission-critical software applications that enhance operational capabilities. Working alongside experienced engineers and technical professionals ...

Ignite Digital

Technical Analyst III

Chesapeake, VA

$80K/yr

Navy Software Maintenance Program in the Norfolk, VA region. This role is ideal for a seasoned ... Collaborate with program managers, engineers, logistics personnel, and crossfunctional teams to ...

Pae

Software Engineer

Houston, TX

The Software Engineer is an exciting role that supports the U.S ... Navy's launch test facilities Research and Development (R&D) program. This R&D program is a top ...

Nexagen Networks, Inc.

Software Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

S. Navy by designing, developing, and maintaining mission-critical software applications that enhance operational capabilities. Working alongside experienced engineers and technical professionals ...

Amentum

Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

The Software Engineer is an exciting role that supports the U.S ... Navy's launch test facilities Research and Development (R&D) program. This R&D program is a top ...

Nexagen Networks, Inc.

Software Engineer

Norfolk, VA

$130K - $150K/yr

S. Navy by designing, developing, and maintaining mission-critical software applications that enhance operational capabilities. Working alongside experienced engineers and technical professionals ...

Nexagen Networks, Inc.

Software Engineer

Norfolk, VA

$130K - $150K/yr

S. Navy by designing, developing, and maintaining mission-critical software applications that enhance operational capabilities. Working alongside experienced engineers and technical professionals ...

Nexagen Networks, Inc.

Software Engineer

Norfolk, VA

$130K - $150K/yr

S. Navy by designing, developing, and maintaining mission-critical software applications that enhance operational capabilities. Working alongside experienced engineers and technical professionals ...

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Freelance Navy Software Engineer information

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$24K

$104.9K

$189K

How much do freelance navy software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance navy 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Navy Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Navy Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (often in languages like C++, Java, or Ada), a solid understanding of software engineering principles, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field, with security clearance being highly desirable. Familiarity with military-grade software development tools, secure coding practices, and systems like MATLAB, Simulink, or real-time operating systems is often required. Excellent problem-solving, adaptability, and clear communication skills set top candidates apart, especially when collaborating remotely with diverse teams. These skills ensure the delivery of reliable, secure, and mission-critical software solutions that meet strict Navy standards and operational needs.

What is a Freelance Navy Software Engineer?

A Freelance Navy Software Engineer is a software professional who works independently, often on a contract basis, to develop, maintain, and improve software systems used by naval organizations or for maritime defense applications. These engineers may work on projects related to ship navigation, communication, cybersecurity, or weapons systems. Unlike traditional employees, they are not tied to one employer and may take on multiple projects for different clients, including government agencies or defense contractors. Freelance Navy Software Engineers need strong technical skills, an understanding of military requirements, and may require security clearances depending on the project.

What are some common challenges faced by Freelance Navy Software Engineers when working on defense-related projects?

Freelance Navy Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as navigating strict security protocols and adapting to highly regulated environments. Projects may require obtaining security clearances, working with proprietary or classified information, and adhering to Department of Defense (DoD) standards. Additionally, freelancers must balance remote collaboration with Navy personnel and contractors, which demands clear communication and flexibility. Successfully managing these challenges requires attention to detail, familiarity with military protocols, and proactive engagement with project stakeholders.

What is the difference between Freelance Navy Software Engineer vs Navy Software Developer?

AspectFreelance Navy Software EngineerNavy Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires relevant software engineering certifications and security clearancesRequires military-specific security clearances and Navy training
Work EnvironmentRemote or contract-based, often project-specificMilitary base or Navy facilities, structured environment
Employer & Industry UsageHired by Navy contractors or as independent consultantsEmployed directly by Navy or military agencies
Work FocusDeveloping software solutions for Navy projects on a freelance basisDesigning, maintaining, and implementing Navy-specific software systems

In summary, Freelance Navy Software Engineers work independently on Navy-related projects, often remotely, while Navy Software Developers are employed directly by the Navy, working within military facilities on official projects. The key differences lie in employment status, work environment, and contractual arrangements.

More about Freelance Navy Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Navy Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Navy Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Navy Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Navy Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Navy Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Navy Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Navy Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Navy Software Engineer jobs are:
Freelance Navy Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Navy Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,863 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Software Maintenance Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Ignite Digital

Chesapeake, VA

$120K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Ignite Digital is seeking an experienced Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support a major U.S. Navy Software Maintenance Program based in Norfolk, VA. This role provides senior technical leadership across software maintenance, Agile solution delivery, and missioncritical Navy system modernization.

This position requires demonstrated experience guiding complex technical programs and coordinating with Navy, DoW, and cross-functional solution teams.

Responsibilities:

  • Serve as a senior expert and advisor in support of Navy software maintenance programs.
  • Provide leadership in software development and sustainment methodologies, ensuring technical rigor and disciplined execution.
  • Apply broad experience in Agile software development processes to guide engineering and maintenance activities.
  • Lead and participate in requirements development across Systems Requirements, Operational Requirements, and Data Analysis, as applicable.
  • Oversee and contribute to Test & Evaluation and Training activities supporting Navy software systems.
  • Deliver expert-level analysis and recommendations to government stakeholders, technical leadership, and program offices.
  • Coordinate with cross-functional Agile teams to ensure alignment with Navy mission outcomes, modernization goals, and fleet readiness requirements.
  • Support solution development that improves reliability, maintainability, and operational integration of Navy software systems.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

  • Technical training related to software maintenance.

Experience:

  • 18 years of hands-on experience in software development and maintenance programs/projects.
  • Recognized expert with proven leadership supporting complex informationtechnology solutions.
  • Broad experience applying Agile software development processes.
  • Relevant DoD or Navy experience highly desired, especially in:
    • C4ISR
    • Logistics
    • Maintenance
    • Business systems
  • Must possess experience in three (3) of the following five (5) areas:
    • Systems Requirements
    • Operational Requirements
    • Data Analysis
    • Test & Evaluation
    • Training

Security Clearance:

  • Active DoD SECRET personnel clearance (PCL) required.

Salary: $120k+ to align with experience and education

Apply