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Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs

Defense Software Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

... defense contractors years to develop. You'll tackle problems spanning core software engineering ... system deployment, hardware integration, and everything in between to ensure mission success. This ...

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft ... ABOUT THE JOB As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will architect and implement mission-critical ...

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$178.80K - $211.90K/yr

Review contractor software plans, technical documentation, and deliverables for compliance and ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field

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Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

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How much do internship defense contractor software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship defense contractor software engineer in the United States is $25.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer, you should have a strong foundation in computer science principles, programming languages (such as C++ or Java), and be enrolled in or have completed relevant coursework. Familiarity with secure software development practices, integrated development environments (IDEs), and version control systems like Git is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this setting. These competencies are crucial for developing high-quality, secure software that meets stringent defense industry standards while collaborating effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

What types of projects might I work on as an intern software engineer at a defense contracting company?

As an intern software engineer at a defense contractor, you can expect to work on a variety of projects ranging from developing and testing embedded systems to supporting simulation tools and software used in defense applications. Interns often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, analysts, and project managers, to contribute to real-world solutions such as cybersecurity, radar systems, or mission planning software. The work environment is typically fast-paced and emphasizes security protocols, so you'll also gain experience working within strict compliance and documentation standards. These experiences not only build technical skills but also provide insight into how large, complex projects are managed in the defense industry.

What does an Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer do?

An Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer assists in developing, testing, and maintaining software systems for defense-related projects under the guidance of experienced engineers. Interns may work on tasks such as coding, debugging, software integration, and documentation, often focusing on secure and reliable solutions for military or government applications. They typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support the development of technologies like radar systems, communications software, or cybersecurity tools. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in a highly regulated and impactful industry.
More about Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,867 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Defense Software Engineer

Defense Software Engineer

Applied Intuition

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

About the role

Applied Intuition is redefining vehicle intelligence across commercial and defense sectors. As a Software Engineer, your responsibilities will look similar to those of a startup CTO: you'll work in small teams and own end-to-end execution of high stakes projects. You'll be the technical bridge between Applied Intuition's novel vehicle intelligence platforms and our customers' real-world operational environments.

This role demands both technical depth and operational excellence. You'll primarily work with defense and government customers, integrating our tools, Vehicle OS, and autonomy stacks with DOD platforms in challenging operational environments. The unique advantage: you'll leverage our robust commercial technology and rapidly evolving product suite to deliver capabilities that would take traditional defense contractors years to develop. You'll tackle problems spanning core software engineering, system deployment, hardware integration, and everything in between to ensure mission success.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys ownership, is passionate about defense technology and is eager to make a significant impact on national security.

At Applied Intuition, you will:
  • Work directly with defense and government customers to deploy, integrate, and operationalize Applied Intuition's vehicle intelligence products in military and government environments-from defense contractors to forward operating bases
  • Tackle a broad range of technical challenges, including software engineering, operating system configuration, system deployment, and hardware integration
  • Bridge customer-built systems and Applied's solutions to deliver tangible value
  • Design and implement scalable, consistent approaches for customer engagement and project execution
  • Develop architectural solutions that improve consistency and scalability across projects
  • Collaborate with internal engineering, product, and customer teams to ensure successful outcomes
  • Take ownership of technical outcomes and drive projects to completion, adapting to changing requirements and priorities
We're looking for someone who has:
  • 3 + years professional software engineering experienceย 
  • Strong engineering background, preferred in fields such as Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering
  • Strong coder with demonstrated proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python
  • Broad technical experience across software engineering, operating systems, and some hardware
  • Experience supporting integration and deployment of complex systems
  • Exceptional problem-solving skills and a proven ability to thrive and innovate independently within highly ambiguous and rapidly evolving operational environments
  • Excellent communication skills and focus on solving customer problemsย 
Security Requirements:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must hold or be eligible for a U.S. Secret security clearance

For more information about U.S. security clearances: clickย here.

Compensation at Applied Intuition for eligible roles includes base salary, equity, and benefits. Base salary is a single component of the total compensation package, which may also include equity in the form of options and/or restricted stock units, comprehensive health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverage, 401k retirement benefits with employer match, learning and wellness stipends, and paid time off. Note that benefits are subject to change and may vary based on jurisdiction of employment.

Applied Intuition pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum intended target base salary for new hire salaries for the position. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, interview performance, and the level and scope of the position.

Please reference the job posting's subtitle for where this position will be located. For pay transparency purposes, the base salary range for this full-time position in the location listed is: $140,000 - $180,000 USD annually.