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Phd Software Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Medtronic

Principal Software Engineer

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$140K - $188K/yr

... OR PhD with 3 years of software development experience Specialized Skills or Experience ... We are engineers at heart- putting ambitious ideas to work to generate real solutions for real ...

Medtronic

Principal Software Engineer

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$140K - $188K/yr

... PhD with 3 years of software development experience Specialized Skills or Experience: * Experience ... We are engineers at heart- putting ambitious ideas to work to generate real solutions for real ...

Medtronic

Principal Software Engineer

Lafayette, CO

$140K - $188K/yr

... PhD with 3 years of software development experience Specialized Skills or Experience: * Experience ... We are engineers at heart- putting ambitious ideas to work to generate real solutions for real ...

Spire

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Boulder, CO · Hybrid

$127K - $167K/yr

Advanced academic research background (PhD/Postdoc) in engineering, physics, computer science, or ... Access to US export-controlled software and/or technology may be required for this role. If needed ...

Visa

Staff Software Engineer

Denver, CO · Hybrid

$124K/yr

... 30-2026 Software Development Engineers are expert problem-solvers and builders who design ... Masters, MBA, JD, MD) or 0 years of work experience with a PhD, OR 8+ years of relevant work ...

Visa

Staff Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$124K/yr

... 30-2026 Software Development Engineers are expert problem-solvers and builders who design ... Masters, MBA, JD, MD) or 0 years of work experience with a PhD, OR 8+ years of relevant work ...

Visa

Staff Software Engineer

Denver, CO · Hybrid

$124K/yr

... 30-2026 Software Development Engineers are expert problem-solvers and builders who design ... Masters, MBA, JD, MD) or 0 years of work experience with a PhD, OR 8+ years of relevant work ...

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All JobsPhd Software Engineer JobsPhd Software Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Phd Software Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$66.8K

$155.1K

$216.1K

How much do phd software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd software engineer in Colorado is $155,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,200.00 and $181,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD Software Engineer?

A PhD Software Engineer is a professional who has completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree specializing in computer science, software engineering, or a related field, and works in designing, developing, and optimizing software systems. They often engage in advanced research, develop innovative algorithms, and solve complex technical problems. Their expertise is typically utilized in roles that require deep technical knowledge, research skills, and the ability to push the boundaries of current technology. PhD Software Engineers are commonly found in academia, research institutions, and leading technology companies.

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

A PhD Software Engineer requires advanced programming expertise, strong analytical and research skills, and typically a doctorate in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with specialized programming languages, version control systems like Git, and experience with research-oriented software tools are common technical requirements. Exceptional problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help bridge the gap between research and practical application. These abilities are crucial for driving innovation, translating complex theories into scalable solutions, and contributing to cutting-edge technology projects.

How does having a PhD impact the daily responsibilities and project involvement of a Software Engineer?

As a PhD Software Engineer, you are often entrusted with tackling complex problems and leading research-driven projects that require advanced analytical and technical skills. Your daily work may involve designing novel algorithms, conducting experiments, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams such as data scientists and product managers. Additionally, you might mentor junior engineers and help shape the technical direction of your team. This role leverages your research background to bridge the gap between academic innovation and practical software solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Phd Software Engineer jobs in Colorado? For Phd Software Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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Phd Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Software Engineer job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $155,124 per year, or $74.6 per hour.
EO/IR Software Engineer - Level 3 or 4

EO/IR Software Engineer - Level 3 or 4

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Boulder, CO

$114K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 339 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Space Systems, Multi-Domain Operations, and Missile Defense Integration Business Unit (BU) has an exciting career opportunity for a EO/IR (Electro-Optical/Infra-Red) Software Engineer - Level 3 or 4 with a passion and expertise in physics, math and software development. The position is in Boulder, CO - Boulder is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, and only 25 miles from downtown Denver.

Position Overview:

As a Principal (Level 3) or Sr. Principal (Level 4) EO/IR Software Engineer on the Autonomous Distributed Detection and Estimation (ADDER) Team, you will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, documenting, debugging software used to identify different threats. This fast-paced and cutting-edge research and development environment will rely on your familiarity with modern software practices. Our team of motivated technical talent works closely with the customer, end user, and each other to ensure the direct mission applicability of developed products.

Essential Functions:

  • Software development in C++ 20 and Python
  • Apply strong understanding for Electro-Optical Infrared (EO/IR) and the optical properties of materials
  • Analysis tool development
  • Technical documentation as required

Seeking candidates who find satisfaction in working on challenging and diverse assignments in collaborative settings across all levels.

This requisition may be filled at a higher level based on qualifications listed below.

This requisition may be filled at either a Principal Software Engineer - Level 3 or a Sr. Principal Software Engineer - Level 4.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Sr. Principal Software Engineer: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline preferred from an accredited university and8 years of related work experience, or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 6 years of related work experience, or a PhD and 4 years of related work experience, or 12 years of related experience in lieu of a degree may be considered.
  • Principal Software Engineer: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline preferred from an accredited university and5 years of related work experience, or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related work experience, or a PhD and 1 year of related work experience, or 9 years of related experience in lieu of a degree may be considered.
  • Applicants must have a current active in-scope U.S. Government DoD Secret security clearance at the time of application, with a willingness to upgrade to Top Secret if necessary.
  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 10% to support business needs (only if needed)
  • Linux Experience
  • Modern C++ Experience (20+)
    • Ability to write modern C++ code (templates, understanding move semantics, smart pointers, etc.)
  • Python Experience
  • Modular Software Dev Experience (Example tools: Git, CMake, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) sensors
  • Strong understanding for the optical properties of materials

Preferred Qualifications:

  • LWIR, MWIR, SWIR, NIR and Vis exposure
  • SNR understanding
  • Image Processing Experience
  • Statistical Principles & Analysis Experience (Examples: Probability Distributions, Conditional Probability, Multi-Variate Random Variables, Kalman Filters, Least Squares)
  • Data fusion experience
  • Distributed systems experience
  • Algorithm design, state estimation and tracking experience
  • Algorithm verification and validation experience
  • DevOps and DevSecOps experience
  • Technical leadership experience
  • Exposure to Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR)
  • Translating sensor data into actionable results
  • Exposure to long range infrared systems experience and PSF photometry
  • Stereo vision systems experience
  • Remote sensing experience
  • Container orchestration and deployment (Kubernetes and/or Docker Compose) experience
  • Atlassian suite experience (Jira, Bitbucket, Confluence, etc)
Primary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $142,200.00 - $213,400.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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