1

Phd Software Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

RAE Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$113K - $149K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Ford is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to lead development of core software infrastructure for ... PhD in Computer Science or related field * Experience with graphics or rendering systems (Qt ...

RAE Software Engineer

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$115K - $192K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Ford is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to lead development of core software infrastructure for ... PhD in Computer Science or related field * Experience with graphics or rendering systems (Qt ...

The AI Expert - Software Engineering is responsible for designing, developing, and integrating ... Master's degree or PhD in AI, Machine Learning, or a related discipline. * Experience working with ...

Staff, Software Engineer - Simulation

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Staff Software Engineer, you'll set technical direction for how the team approaches simulation ... PhD in a related field, plus 5+ years of experience * Considered highly skilled and proficient in ...

Sr. Software Engineer - AI/ML

Ann Arbor, MI · Hybrid

$119K - $158K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's and/or PhD preferred * Minimum of eight (8) years of software engineering, with 3-5 years of experience in AI/ML, with a proven track record of deploying solutions in a production ...

Sr. Software Engineer - AI/ML

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$119K - $158K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's and/or PhD preferred * Minimum of eight (8) years of software engineering, with 3-5 years of experience in AI/ML, with a proven track record of deploying solutions in a production ...

Sr. Software Engineer - AI/ML

Ann Arbor, MI · Hybrid

$119K - $158K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's and/or PhD preferred * Minimum of eight (8) years of software engineering, with 3-5 years of experience in AI/ML, with a proven track record of deploying solutions in a production ...

Sr. Software Engineer - AI/ML

Ann Arbor, MI · Hybrid

$119K - $158K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Master's and/or PhD preferred * Minimum of eight (8) years of software engineering, with 3-5 years of experience in AI/ML, with a proven track record of deploying solutions in a production ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Phd Software Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$55.3K

$128.6K

$179.1K

How much do phd software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd software engineer in Michigan is $128,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,600.00 and $150,800.00 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?

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.

What does a PhD software engineer do?

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 cities in Michigan are hiring for Phd Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Phd Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Software Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Internship, 71% Full Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $128,581 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

Lead Software Engineer

The MITRE Corporation

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


MITRE Corporation rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities for career growth, and a culture of innovation that embraces adaptability, collaboration, technical excellence, and people in partnership. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE - and make a difference with us.
At MITRE you will leverage your background and experience to make a difference in tangible, impactful problems that face our nation. You'll work on diverse projects that support our Government sponsors and benefit from numerous learning and growth opportunities.
Our workplace reflects our values. We want you to continue to grow your career at MITRE so that you can experience the gratifying work, our competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities, and a culture of innovation that embraces flexibility, collaboration, and career growth.
Roles & Responsibilities:
MITRE is seeking a Software Engineer to support the development, modernization, and transition of software-intensive Ground Combat Systems for Army sponsors including Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Maneuver Ground and Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC). This role supports digital transformation efforts across combat vehicle platforms including XM30, self-propelled howitzer modernization, Common Ground Systems, and emerging software-defined capabilities, while working closely with Army program offices, engineering organizations, and industry partners to transition modern software capabilities into operational programs.
The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technical leaders driving modernization across software engineering, DevSecOps, cloud technologies, embedded systems, digital engineering, AI-enabled systems, and modern acquisition practices. The ideal candidate is comfortable operating across software development, systems engineering, customer engagement, and technical strategy while helping sponsors transition from traditional acquisition approaches to continuous software delivery.
Responsibilities may include:
  • Design, develop, and transition modern software capabilities supporting Army Ground Combat Systems.
  • Apply modern software engineering practices including Agile development, DevSecOps, CI/CD, automated testing, and secure software delivery.
  • Contribute to software architecture, code quality, testing, automation, observability, and developer experience improvements.
  • Help government sponsors adopt modern engineering practices, software factory approaches, and continuous software delivery models.
  • Support acquisition and digital transformation efforts by aligning engineering activities with iterative delivery, transition, and sustainment needs.
  • Serve as a trusted technical advisor to Army sponsors, program offices, and mission partners.
  • Support technical reviews, integration activities, deployment planning, troubleshooting, and transition of capabilities into operational environments.
  • Contribute to modernization planning, sponsor engagement, and technology transition across MITRE's Ground Combat Systems portfolio.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Typically requires a minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 6 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD with 3 years of relevant experience who can immediately contribute at this job step; or equivalent combination of related education and work experience.
  • Ability and willingness to travel locally (approximately 25-50%) to sponsor locations, including the Detroit Arsenal in Warren, MI, to support customer engagements, technical collaboration, and program activities.
  • Experience implementing DevSecOps principles and CI/CD pipelines.
  • Experience designing and developing developing software for embedded systems or software-intensive hardware platforms.
  • Experience with cloud technologies (AWS and/or Azure), containerization, and Kubernetes, as well as modern software development workflows
  • Experience with one or more programming languages such as Python, Go, Java, C#, C++, JavaScript, or TypeScript.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Ability to support work in classified environments as required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
  • Per the U.S. Government's eligibility requirements for a clearance, U.S Citizenship is required.
  • This position requires a minimum of 50% hybrid on-site

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field.
  • Active Secret or Top Secret clearance.
  • Experience supporting Army modernization programs, particularly Ground Combat Systems, or GVSC organizations.
  • Experience with embedded software, vehicle software architectures, or tactical systems.
  • Experience implementing Platform Engineering and InternalDeveloper Platforms.
  • Experience with Infrastructure-as-Code tools such as Terraform, Ansible, or Pulumi.
  • Experience with software factory implementation and continuous Authority to Operate (cATO) practices.
  • Experience applying Zero Trust, secure software supply chain, and software assurance principles.
  • Familiarity with Digital Engineering, MBSE, or digital thread concepts.
  • Experience with AI/ML, MLOps, or AI-enabled software development.
  • Strong understanding of DoD software acquisition policy, software pathways, and modern software delivery practices.

This requisition requires the candidate to have a minimum of the following clearance(s):
None
This requisition requires the hired candidate to have or obtain, within one year from the date of hire, the following clearance(s):
Secret
Salary compensation range and midpoint:
$156,800 - $196,000 - $235,200 Annual
Work Location Type:
Hybrid
Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local or international law.
MITRE intends to maintain a website that is fully accessible to all individuals. If you are unable to search or apply for jobs and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of MITRE's employment process, please email for general support and for intern positions. This service is for individuals requiring reasonable accommodation requests. Please note that vendor solicitations will not receive a reply.
Benefits information may be found here.
Copyright 1997-2026, The MITRE Corporation. All rights reserved. MITRE is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation. Material on this site may be copied and distributed with permission only.

What MITRE Corporation employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


MITRE logo

About MITRE

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities, and a culture of innovation that embraces diversity, inclusion, flexibility, collaboration, and career growth. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE-and make a difference with us. MITRE is a trusted operator of federally funded research and development centers and we're on a mission to make the world a safer place-for all of humanity, today and in the future. To deliver on our mission, we need the world's best talent and leaders-groundbreakers and partnership-builders on a global scale in areas like healthcare, artificial intelligence, critical infrastructure resiliency, pandemic management, and cybersecurity. In return, we have the privilege of backing you with thousands of technical experts in diverse fields, a culture of innovation and knowledge sharing, access to data and resources uniquely available to MITRE through our wide-ranging partnerships across government, industry and academia.

Industry

It services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1958

Social media