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Full Time Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance Jobs

SpaceX

GNC Engineer - Top Secret Clearance

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

GNC ENGINEER - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE As a guidance, navigation, and control mission design engineer ... Build software tools and construct scenarios to perform system-of-systems performance analysis of ...

V2X

Senior Engineer - Top Secret Clearance

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$117K - $161K/yr

Software : * Proficient in all Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel, and Power Point). * Clearance Requirement: * Active U.S. DoD Top Secret Security Clearance. At V2X, we are deeply ...

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How much do full time software engineer top secret clearance jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time software engineer top secret clearance in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Full Time Software Engineer with Top Secret Clearance?

A Full Time Software Engineer with Top Secret Clearance is a professional who develops, tests, and maintains software systems while holding a Top Secret security clearance. This clearance allows them to work on highly sensitive government or defense projects that require strict confidentiality. These engineers often work for federal agencies, defense contractors, or companies supporting classified projects, and must follow strict security protocols. In addition to technical skills, they must pass extensive background checks and adhere to security regulations at all times.

What are some common challenges faced by software engineers working with Top Secret clearance, and how can I prepare for them?

Software engineers with Top Secret clearance often encounter challenges related to strict security protocols and limited access to certain resources or information. You may need to adapt to working in secure environments, where internet access and external communication are restricted, and documentation is highly controlled. Collaboration with colleagues can involve additional layers of approval and compartmentalization, which may slow down typical development cycles. To prepare, familiarize yourself with secure coding practices, be comfortable working within government or defense regulations, and develop strong communication skills for clear and concise collaboration within secure parameters.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Software Engineer with Top Secret Clearance, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Software Engineer with Top Secret Clearance, you need a strong background in software development, problem-solving, and a relevant bachelor's degree, along with active Top Secret security clearance. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Java, C++, or Python), version control systems, and secure coding practices is typically required, often supplemented by certifications like Security+ or CISSP. Excellent teamwork, attention to detail, and clear communication are vital soft skills, especially when handling sensitive or classified projects. These competencies ensure both technical excellence and the ability to maintain strict security standards critical for national security projects.

What is the difference between Full Time Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance vs Full Time Software Engineer Secret Clearance?

AspectFull Time Software Engineer Top Secret ClearanceFull Time Software Engineer Secret Clearance
Required CredentialsTop Secret Clearance, often with additional background checksSecret Clearance, with standard background checks
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, secure facilitiesGovernment agencies, defense contractors, less restrictive environments
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense, intelligence, and national security sectorsDefense, government, and related sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding security clearance levels for software engineering rolesComparing clearance requirements for software engineering jobs

Full Time Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance roles require higher security credentials and are typically found in national security sectors. Secret Clearance positions are similar but involve less stringent background checks. The main difference lies in the level of security clearance, impacting the work environment and employer sectors.

What cities are hiring for Full Time Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs? The most popular types of Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs include:
Full Time Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs near you
Security Software Engineer - Top Secret Clearance

Security Software Engineer - Top Secret Clearance

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 hours ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th 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.
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. 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. Exempt employees are eligible for 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.
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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