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Network Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Network Software Developer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Title: Network Software Developer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

KBR, Inc.

Network Software Developer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Title: Network Software Developer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

Apple

Cloud Network Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$181K - $318K/yr

Join Apple's Cloud network Infrastructure team as a site reliability engineer to help support and scale cloud services. The Apple Networking team builds software-defined cloud network infrastructure ...

Apple

Cloud Network Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$70.50 - $91.50/hr

Join Apple's Cloud network Infrastructure team as a site reliability engineer to help support and scale cloud services...The Apple Networking team builds software-defined cloud network infrastructure ...

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All JobsNetwork Software Engineer Jobs

Network Software Engineer information

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$31K

$109K

$158K

How much do network software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for network software engineer in the United States is $109,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,000.00 and $133,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Network Software Engineers?

Network Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software that manages and optimizes computer networks. They work on creating applications and tools that enable efficient data communication, network security, and network performance monitoring. Their role often involves programming network protocols, building network management software, and troubleshooting network-related issues. Network Software Engineers typically collaborate with hardware engineers, network architects, and IT teams to ensure seamless connectivity and robust network infrastructure.

What are some common challenges Network Software Engineers face when integrating new networking protocols into existing infrastructure?

Network Software Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new protocols, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, minimizing downtime during deployment, and maintaining robust security standards. Coordination with cross-functional teams—including network administrators, security engineers, and QA testers—is crucial to identify potential bottlenecks or vulnerabilities early in the process. Additionally, thorough documentation and testing are essential to ensure that new protocols function as intended without disrupting existing network operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Network Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Network Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, network protocols, and programming languages such as Python, C/C++, or Java, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with network simulation tools, SDN platforms, and certifications like Cisco CCNA or CCNP are highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively address complex network issues and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These skills are crucial for developing reliable network solutions that enhance performance, security, and scalability in modern IT environments.

What is the difference between Network Software Engineer vs Network Administrator?

AspectNetwork Software EngineerNetwork Administrator
Primary RoleDesigns, develops, and maintains network software and protocolsManages and maintains existing network infrastructure
Skills & CertificationsNetworking protocols, programming, scripting, certifications like Cisco CCNA/CCNPNetwork management, troubleshooting, certifications like Cisco CCNA/CCNP
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, network design projectsNetwork operations centers, on-site network management
Industry UsageIT companies, telecom, large enterprisesCorporate IT departments, service providers

While both roles require networking knowledge and certifications like Cisco CCNA/CCNP, Network Software Engineers focus on developing network software and protocols, whereas Network Administrators manage and troubleshoot existing network infrastructure. Their work environments and responsibilities differ, but both are essential in maintaining robust network systems.

More about Network Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Network Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Network Software Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Network Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Network Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Network Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Network Software Engineer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Network Software Engineer jobs? For Network Software Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Network Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Network Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $109,040 per year, or $52.4 per hour.
Network Software Developer

Network Software Developer

KBR

Lexington, MA • On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 355 rated engineering

Job description

Title:

Network Software Developer

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.

KBR is seeking individuals for multiple Software Developer positions to support research and prototyping in future networking programs. Individuals in this position operate as part of an MIT LL team and are responsible for developing software related to software defined networking, routing protocols, and associated software infrastructure.

Why Join Us?

  • Innovative Projects: Enable critically important communications over vast distances by being the team member to innovate and overcome technical challenges as we spearhead new solutions through advanced prototyping.

  • Collaborative Environment: Come join a team of enthusiastic engineers engaged in creating the next generation of cutting-edge laser communication systems technology.

  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense and/or defense.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Development of networking software for simulation, emulation, and/or testbed efforts

  • Infrastructure development including container management and deployment using Kubernetes

  • Support in the development of software-defined networking and/or routing approaches to solve problems and/or improve performance in emerging networks

Work Environment:

  • Location: On-site with the possibility of hybrid arrangement

  • Travel Requirements: Willing and able to travel (up to 10%, typically CONUS)

  • Working Hours: Standard

Qualifications:

Required:

  • Active/Current DoD Secret clearance is required

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field

  • 3-5 years of experience

  • Experience with C++ and Python

  • Experience with Kubernetes

  • Familiarity with software-defined networking (SDN)

  • Familiarity with routing protocols

  • Good oral and communication skills

  • Ability to work within a team environment

Desired:

  • Experience with software-defined networking

  • Experience with operation and/or implementation of routing protocols

  • Possess strong oral and written communications skills, and ability to clearly and logically present findings/results to internal and external organizations

Basic Compensation:

For MA only, the salary range is approximately $101,500 - $152,200 USD annually. The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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