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Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

Mountain View, CA · Hybrid

$160K - $225K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

VTG

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $215K/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

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

El Segundo, CA · Hybrid

$160K - $225K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Decisive Point

Lead Software Engineer (Defense Tech)

Washington, DC · On-site

$140 - $180/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

VTG

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $215K/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

VT Group (VTG)

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

... contractor software deliverables for compliance with requirements and standards • Support ... Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field • 5-9 years of experience supporting ...

VTG

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $215K/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 Aug 20, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship defense contractor software engineer?

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 internship defense contractor software engineer?

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.
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Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Internship Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,867 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Software Engineer II (UAV Embedded)

Kratos Defense

Roseville, CA

$95K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

ABOUT THE JOB

As an Software Engineer II (UAV Embedded), you will architect and implement mission-critical software for our next-generation UAV flight computers. The XQ-58, BQM-177, BQM-167, or MQM-178 unmanned aerial vehicles!  You will be the primary link between complex flight algorithms and custom avionics hardware, developing high-performance C and C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. Working at the intersection of hardware and software, you will collaborate with electrical and GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers to design and implement complex physical-digital interactions with MATLAB/Simulink.


WHAT YOU'LL DO 

  • Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations.
  • Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.
  • Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports
  • Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to KUAS specifications

Compensation $95,000 - $125,000


REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Requires BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, or 7 YOE in lieu of BS degree.
  • 4 years of C or C++ programming experience
  • Demonstrated understanding of Object-Oriented programming principles and RTOS systems.
  • Demonstrated understanding of software development life-cycle and clearly document software requirements.
  • Hands on ability to troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop simulation modelling and make firmware updates
  • May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship). 

 PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS  

  • Skills with tools such as Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, LabView
  • Skills implementing interface controls based on MBSE design documentation
  • Previous familiarity with OMS/UCI, A-GRA, STANAG 4586, DO-178C, AS910

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

•            Office and or manufacturing environment.

•            Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.

•            Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10-key, phones).

•            May work extended hours or weekends.

•            May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: 

•            5-10% May be required between other KUAS locations.

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