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Phd Software Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Software Engineer

Home, PA · On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

Arcfield is seeking an experienced Senior Software Engineer to lead the design, development ... MS with 10-13 years' experience or PhD with 10+ years' experience in Electrical Engineering ...

The HPC Software Engineer will design, implement, and optimize parallel programming methods within ... PhD preferred. • Experience with GPU hardware and at least one GPU programming model such as CUDA ...

Senior Software Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$118K - $156K/yr

Required : • BS/MS/Phd in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Data Science, or a related field ... software to accelerate innovation in the engineering design of silicon to systems. Founded in 1988 ...

OR PhD in the same fields with two (2) years of experience * Understanding of software engineering principles and system design * Experience with containerization and microservices architectures

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Showing results 1-20

Phd Software Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$63.7K

$147.9K

$206K

How much do phd software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd software engineer in Pennsylvania is $147,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,300.00 and $173,400.00 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 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 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 cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Phd Software Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Phd Software Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,878 per year, or $71.1 per hour.

AI Security Software Engineer

Software Engineering Institute

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

The CERT Division of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking applicants for the role of AI Security Software Engineer. Established in response to the Morris worm, CERT has been a leader in cybersecurity research, advancing the resilience of software systems and responding to sophisticated cyber threats. As AI becomes central to critical infrastructure, advancing its security and resilience offers a compelling opportunity to shape the future, impacting support of the national security mission.
Our team researches and develops tactics, techniques, and procedures necessary for the field of AI security. Our work includes experimental designs for large-scale AI security research programs, AI red teaming, and counter AI applications. Additionally, we work in generative AI and large language models, data visualization, security analysis of AI systems, and adversarial machine learning. We have access to a wide variety of cyber-related data, including malware samples, NetFlow data, cyber security training runs and tests, incident tickets, and more.
Artificial Intelligence Security Software Engineers at the SEI use software and machine learning engineering practices, data processing, and data analytics to help our researchers solve AI security challenges. In this role, you will work with our researchers and customers to develop machine learning based prototypes, products, and tools to solve and automate solutions to AI Security problems. You'll get a chance to work with elite AI and cyber security professionals and university faculty to build new technologies that will influence national AI and cyber security strategy for decades to come.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop machine learning-based prototypes, tools, and systems for AI security applications, demonstrating strong expertise in ML development and deployment
  • Collaborate with researchers and stakeholders to design and execute experimental AI security solutions, communicating effectively across technical and non-technical audiences
  • Apply software engineering best practices to build scalable, maintainable systems, grounded design principles
  • Process and analyze large, diverse cybersecurity datasets (e.g., malware, NetFlow, incident data), using strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Support AI red teaming and adversarial machine learning initiatives, applying an innovative and research-driven mindset
  • Translate research concepts into practical, operational capabilities, with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team

Minimum Qualifications
  • BS in computer science, machine learning, cybersecurity, statistics, or related discipline with eight (8) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with five (5) years of experience; OR PhD in the same fields with two (2) years of experience
  • Understanding of software engineering principles and system design
  • Experience with containerization and microservices architectures
  • Travel to various locations to support the SEI's overall mission. This includes within the SEI and CMU community, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings on occasion (5%).
  • You will be subject to a background check and will need to obtain and maintain a Department of War (DoW) security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience applying statistical modeling and advanced data analytics techniques
  • Background in developing AI/ML solutions in real-world settings
  • Familiarity with applied machine learning domains (e.g., natural language processing, computer vision, autonomy, audio analysis)
  • Experience and knowledge in cybersecurity best practices
  • Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies and domains

Why Join Us
  • Contribute to a world-class organization with significant impact on software and national security
  • Work with cutting-edge technologies alongside leading experts in AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering
  • 8% employer retirement contribution (no employee contribution required)
  • Tuition benefits for employees and their dependent children
  • Flexible work arrangements and strong work-life balance
  • Paid parental and military leave
  • Professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and certifications
  • Qualify for relocation assistance and so much more.

Location
Arlington, VA, Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Software/Applications Development/Engineering
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
SalaryMore Information:
  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
  • Statement of Assurance