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Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Tempe, AZ

Danaher

Software Engineer Internships

Phoenix, AZ

By submitting your interest, you'll be among the first to know when internship opportunities open ... About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ...

Danaher

Software Engineer Internships

Mesa, AZ

By submitting your interest, you'll be among the first to know when internship opportunities open ... About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ...

Danaher

Software Engineer Internships

Chandler, AZ

By submitting your interest, you'll be among the first to know when internship opportunities open ... About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ...

Danaher

Software Engineer Internships

Glendale, AZ

By submitting your interest, you'll be among the first to know when internship opportunities open ... About Software Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you passionate about building real-world ...

NuclearN AI

Software Engineer Internship

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field or you've built ... Hourly: $25 - $35 Work Model & Schedule * Part-time to full time, hourly internship * In-office 4 ...

Nuclearn

Software Engineer Internship

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field or you've built ... Hourly: $25 - $35 Work Model & Schedule * Part-time to full time, hourly internship * In-office 4 ...

Nuclearn

Software Engineer Internship

Phoenix, AZ

$25 - $35/hr

Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field or you've built ... Hourly: $25 - $35 Work Model & Schedule * Part-time to full time, hourly internship * In-office 4 ...

Actalent

Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$55 - $60/hr

You will work in a professional engineering environment focused on safety-critical embedded software, hardware, and certification services for aviation, space, and defense applications. The team ...

Actalent

Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$55 - $60/hr

Embedded Software Engineer - Safety-Critical Avionics This role focuses on developing and verifying ... Experience working on safety-critical programs in aviation, space, or defense domains. * Comfort ...

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

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship defense contractor software engineer in Tempe, AZ is $24.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $27.64 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.
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Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you

Lead Software Engineer

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$69 - $74/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

We are hiring Lead Software Engineer - Test Systems & Hardware Integration (ATE). Stay hands-on while leading-drive software and hardware integration for high-impact test systems used in real production environments. We're hire and grow engineers who thrive on solving hard problems and turning bold ideas into real-world solutions. If you're driven to design, develop, and test technology that truly makes an impact, you'll feel at home here.
Join Quest Defense Systems & Solutions as our Lead Software Engineer to drive the development and integration of software for automated test systems (ATE) supporting aerospace and defense programs.
In this role, you'll combine hands-on development with technical leadership-owning system-level solutions, guiding engineers, and shaping how test systems are designed, built, and deployed. You'll play a key role in delivering scalable, reliable test architectures in complex production environments.
Location: Tucson or Scottsdale, AZ (onsite)
Relocation: Available
Clearance: U.S. Citizenship required (Secret Clearance preferred)
Why This Role
  • Opportunity to lead while staying hands-on
  • Influence technical direction and system architecture
  • High visibility across engineering and program leadership
  • Impact delivery of complex, mission-critical systems

What You'll Do
  • Lead development of test software systems and architectures (C#, C++)
  • Provide technical direction and mentorship to software engineers
  • Own software + hardware integration strategy across test platforms
  • Collaborate with program leadership and cross-functional engineering teams
  • Drive requirements definition, system design, and technical decision-making
  • Oversee troubleshooting of complex system-level issues
  • Contribute to program execution (cost, schedule, technical performance)

Requirements
  • 7-10+ years of experience in software engineering or test systems development
  • Strong background in hardware/software integration or ATE systems
  • Proven experience in technical leadership, mentoring, or leading projects
  • Experience with C#, C++, and modern development environments
  • Strong communication skills with ability to interface with engineering and program leadership
  • Bachelor's degree in STEM (or equivalent experience)
  • U.S. Citizenship (clearance eligible)

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience architecting test systems or ATE platforms
  • Experience with instrument drivers, automation frameworks, or NI ecosystems
  • Knowledge of system-level design, UML, or modeling tools
  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability environments
  • Familiarity with CI/CD, DevOps, or configuration management

The QDSS Advantage:
At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You'll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future.
What You'll Find Here
  • Work That Matters - Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact.
  • Growth That's Supported - Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement.
  • A Culture That Works - A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued.

Benefits Include
  • Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace.

Full compensation package is based on candidate experience and certifications
Pay Ranges
$69-$74 USD
At Quest Defense Systems and Solutions, we don't just build technology - we engineer the future. From next-generation aerospace solutions to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the boundaries of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and visionary thinkers come together to shape the future. With over 25 years of aerospace and defense engineering expertise, our commitment to delivering high-quality, transformative solutions sets us apart - not just as an industry leader, but as a driving force for impactful change. Together, we're not just leading the industry - we're revolutionizing it.
Quest Defense provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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