Internship Defense Distributed Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About The Role: Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking an Associate Software Engineer to be part of our Warfare Systems team and based out of our Arlington, VA and Mount Laurel, NJ location. The Associate Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and integrating software solutions across IDT’s Warfare Systems business area. The primary role of the Software Engineer is to build high-quality, innovative, and fully performing software which integrates with other system components. The Software Engineer will be working with various Warfare Systems customers to gather user requirements, defining system functionality, and writing code in various languages, like Java, C++, and Python. You will work with other software engineers, systems engineers, integration engineers, and subject matter experts to deliver robust technical solutions. Clearance & Location Requirements: * All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
* This is an on-site position. Requiring at least 5 days in office, based out of our Arlington, VA and Mount Laurel, VA location. What You Will Do:  * Engineers Solutions: Design, develop, document, and test backend software components and algorithms using modern programming languages such as C++, Python, Java, or C#. Apply appropriate data structures, modular design principles, and performance optimization techniques to deliver scalable, maintainable solutions.
* Scopes Requirements: Analyze and interpret system and software requirements to ensure clarity, feasibility, and traceability. Collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to translate high-level mission and system needs into functional backend implementations.
* Integrates Systems: Integrate software components into complex development environments, ensuring interoperability across distributed systems, APIs, databases, and networking layers within DoD software ecosystems.
* Assures Quality: Apply secure coding practices and established engineering standards related to security, performance, and reliability. Participate in peer reviews of architecture designs, system requirements, and implemented code to ensure technical rigor and mission alignment.
* Verification & Testing: Model, implement, and test algorithms and backend services using unit and interface testing frameworks. Validate system functionality, edge cases, and performance constraints across development and integration environments.
* Manages Risk & Security: Identify potential technical and cybersecurity risks within software implementations. Apply defensive programming, input validation, and system-level safeguards to harden software against vulnerabilities and operational threats.
* Leverages AI Responsibly: Utilize AI coding assistants to support code generation, refactoring, debugging, and root-cause analysis while critically reviewing outputs to ensure correctness, security, and adherence to engineering standards.
* Collaborates Across Teams: Work within small, cross-site teams of software and systems engineers. Communicate technical concepts clearly and collaborate with Program Managers and Chief Engineers to document, manage, and evolve system and software requirements.
* Delivers Results in Dynamic Environments: Manage multiple concurrent assignments, adapt to changing priorities, and contribute to meeting program milestones while maintaining high standards of technical excellence and accountability. Who You Are (Required): * Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Mathematics, Aeronautical Engineering, or equivalent full-time professional experience.
* 0–2+ years of full-time professional experience in backend software development or related technical roles (internship experience applicable).
* Ability to travel up to 15% of the time as needed.
* Familiarity with the software development lifecycle (requirements through deployment).
* Proficiency in at least one modern backend language (e.g., Python, Java, C++, C#).
* Ability to design, develop, and analyze algorithms and backend software systems.
* Understanding of Windows and Linux file systems.
* Experience using version control systems (e.g., Git).
* Understanding of APIs (REST/gRPC) and modular code design principles.
* Familiarity with SQL and relational databases (e.g., Postgres).
* Familiarity with networking fundamentals and protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP, CORBA, DDS).
* Ability to review, critique, and harden AI-generated code.
* Ability to manage multiple concurrent assignments and adjust priorities as needed.
* Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and technical communication abilities. What Makes You Stand Out * Experience with cloud computing, virtualization, or containerization technologies.
* Familiarity with cloud infrastructure platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS, GCP).
* Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, Kafka, Cassandra).
* Demonstrated experience using AI coding assistants (e.g., GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude, Cursor, Codeium) for code generation, optimization, debugging, and iterative improvement.
* Ability to write effective prompts and iterate with AI tools to enhance performance and code quality.
* Understanding of AI limitations, hallucinations, and validation techniques.
* Experience with unit testing and interface testing frameworks.
* Exposure to complex DoD or defense-related software systems. If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network. Pay Range*: $72,000 - $114,450 *Pursuant to New Jersey Senate Bill 2310 IDT is required to disclose the “pay scale” or “pay range” associated with a job posting. Notably, however, this amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. Click here for additional information about Senate Bill 2310. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience. This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.  About Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) Leveraging advanced software automation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI-driven capabilities, IDT accelerates capability development, enhances operational readiness, and reduces lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense. We are dedicated to transforming defense systems through innovation, efficiency, and mission-critical results. At IDT, our employees are developing advanced mission-critical outcomes by consistently delivering high-quality results, fostering innovation, applying rigorous problem-solving, and communicating effectively across multifaceted teams and stakeholders. Grounded in these competencies, IDT translates complex customer and product requirements into robust software solutions. Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including: * Generous benefits package
* Competitive PTO
* Paid holidays
* 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
* 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
* Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
* Professional Development Resources
* Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
* Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
* Annual Employee Recognition Awards
* Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches EEO Statement: IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.