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Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs

Software Engineer I

Roseville, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft ... Develops product software using software engineering best-practices, while adhering to KUAS ...

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft ... Develops product software using software engineering best-practices, while adhering to KUAS ...

... 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 ...

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Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do overnight defense contractor software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for overnight defense contractor software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an overnight defense contractor software engineer?

Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineers are professionals who develop, maintain, and troubleshoot software systems used in defense applications, often working during overnight shifts to support 24/7 operations. They may work for companies contracted by government or military agencies, ensuring that critical defense systems are secure, functional, and up to date. These engineers typically work on projects involving cybersecurity, embedded systems, simulation, or mission-critical software. Their role can also involve responding to real-time incidents or updates that need immediate attention outside of standard business hours.

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

To thrive as an Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or Java, and typically a security clearance due to sensitive project work. Familiarity with secure software development practices, version control systems (like Git), and defense-specific tools such as MATLAB or simulation platforms is often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with teams and ensuring quality under tight deadlines. These technical and soft skills are crucial for delivering reliable, secure software solutions that meet stringent defense industry standards and operate effectively in mission-critical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by overnight defense contractor software engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing communication across different time zones, ensuring security compliance during off-peak hours, and maintaining high alertness while working unconventional shifts. To address these, it's important to establish clear handover protocols with daytime teams, stay updated on security best practices, and implement personal routines to manage sleep and alertness. Building strong remote communication skills and leveraging collaboration tools can also help ensure project continuity and team cohesion.

What is the difference between Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer vs Night Shift Defense Software Developer?

AspectOvernight Defense Contractor Software EngineerNight Shift Defense Software Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, security clearances often requiredBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, security clearances may be needed
Work EnvironmentContractor role, often in secure facilities or remoteFull-time employment, in secure facilities or remote
Employer & IndustryDefense contractors, government agenciesDefense contractors, government agencies
Work HoursOvernight shifts, typically 10-12 hoursNight shifts, usually 8-12 hours

The Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer and Night Shift Defense Software Developer roles share similar credentials, work environments, and industry usage. The main difference lies in the employment type, with the former often being a contractor and the latter a full-time employee. Both roles require security clearances and involve working overnight hours in defense-related projects.

More about Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Overnight 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 Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Overnight Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Overnight 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 $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Software Engineer I

Kratos Defense

Roseville, CA • On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 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!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

Develops product software using software engineering best-practices, while adhering to KUAS policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Each successive level of Software Engineer builds on the identified typical job functions listed for the previous level(s) of Software Engineer.

These duties and responsibilities apply to all levels of Software Engineers.

  • Ensures customer satisfaction.
  • Analyses and decomposes system, and subsystem requirements and specifications collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.
  • Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, test reports, and progress reports.
  • Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to specifications, using approved KUAS software processes and tools.
  • Prepares and presents design review material in support of technical interchange meetings with suppliers and external/internal customers.
  • Participates in code reviews, verifies software change specification compliance, and records review and verification results.
  • Supports flight testing, data reduction, analysis, and reporting.
  • Participates in software effort planning and estimation activities.
  • Participates in tracking and reporting progress on assignments.
  • Supports collection of software development metrics and continuous improvement processes.
  • Complies with established KUAS business policies and procedures.
  • Follows safety policies and guidelines.
  • Ensures that the work area and equipment are kept clean.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Software Engineer I

  • Works under the specific direction and guidance of senior engineers and manager.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None

Compensation: $85,000 - $95,000


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Required:

  • Demonstrated understanding of Object Oriented programming principles.
  • Demonstrated understanding of the specific characteristics and requirements of real-time software and systems.
  • Demonstrated understanding of classic software development life-cycle.
  • Ability to analyze and clearly document software requirements.
  • Ability to travel as necessary to perform job duties.
  • Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally to meet program requirements.
  • Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
  • Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors.
  • Ability to interact appropriately with the public when necessary.
  • Ability to adhere to workplace rules.
  • Ability to effectively communicate professionally in writing or verbally with all levels of personnel.
  • May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Preferred:

N/A

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Each successive level of Software Engineer builds on the identified education and experience qualifications listed for the previous level(s) of Software Engineer.

Required:

Software Engineer I

  • Requires BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other Engineering, Mathematics, or Science discipline, with appropriate software coursework and/or experience.
  • Relevant experience preferred.
  • Coursework or prior experience in C or C++ programming language, and data structures.
  • Coursework or experience with software version control tools, debugging tools, and test methods.

Preferred:

Software Engineer I

  • Coursework or other experience with MatLab / Simulink, or other system modeling.
  • Familiarity with principles of Personal Software Process/ Team Software Process.
  • Familiarity with principles of Test Driven Development.
  • Familiarity with aerodynamic concepts and principles.
  • Experience with Java.

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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