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Phd Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Rincon Research Corp

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$85K - $152K/yr

Degree (Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD) in Computer Engineering or Computer Science * Proficient in modern software engineering practices for testability and readability * Proficient in C++ and Python ...

SAIC

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · Remote

Software Subcategory: SW Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time ... PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience; four (4) years of experience considered in lieu of ...

SAIC

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

PhD or JD and zero (0) years or more experience; (Degree required per contract). Required Skills: * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent ...

Peraton

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Software Engineer Job Locations US Requisition ID 2026-167058 Position Category Information ... Qualifications * 5 years with BS/BA; 3 years with MS/MA; 0 years with PhD, 9 years of experience ...

SAIC

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · Remote

Software Subcategory: SW Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time ... PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience; four (4) years of experience considered in lieu of ...

SAIC

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

PhD or JD and zero (0) years or more experience; (Degree required per contract). Required Skills: * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent ...

SAIC

Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Description SAIC is seeking a Software Engineer to join our team in support of the Department of ... PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience; four (4) years of experience considered in lieu of ...

STR

Lead Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$157K - $224K/yr

As a Lead Software Engineer you will design, develop, and implement real-time software for RF ... S. citizenship is a government requirement * BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer ...

MITRE

XR Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

... or a PhD with 3 years' experience; or equivalent combination of related education and work ... DevSecOps; and HCI. • Strong software engineering skills with experience in AR and XR Army ...

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All JobsPhd Software Engineer JobsPhd Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Phd Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

How much do phd software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd software engineer in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 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 Virginia? For Phd Software Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Phd Software Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Phd Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Phd Software Engineer job openings:
Phd Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Software Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,258 per year, or $70.3 per hour.
Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Software Engineering Institute

Arlington, VA • On-site

$142K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Who we are
SEI helps advance software engineering principles and practices and serves as a national resource in software engineering, computer security, and process improvement. The SEI works closely with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to continually improve software-intensive systems. Its core purposes are to help organizations improve software engineering capabilities, advance cybersecurity methods and technologies, and bring the discipline of software engineering to AI systems.
About the role
Are you an engineer who enjoys a challenge? Are you excited about working for a Federally Funded Research and Development Center focusing on areas critical to national security? Do you want to join a collaborative team that develops and uses best-in-class tools to enable end-to-end software development? If so, we want you for our team, where you'll be part of an exciting and impactful culture of collaboration that delivers timely and high-quality results.
We are looking for a creative engineer to design and develop software prototypes and research methods for software resilience. We are seeking a technology-focused team member who has experience with software engineering, RTOS scheduling, and memory management. You'll develop tools, techniques, and processes to solve some of the most difficult software problems that our government faces.
What you'll do
  • Design and analyze embedded software tools and capabilities, including software exception handlers, inter-process communication mechanisms, and software fault monitors.
  • Use static, dynamic, and complexity analysis software tools to identify software weaknesses and areas that need additional design and refactoring.
  • Ensure deterministic performance by architecting and developing software using state-of-the-art techniques.
  • Lead a team of developers while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, taking ownership of high-visibility tasks and deliverables for customers.

Who you are
  • Candidates must possess an active TS/SCI DoW security clearance issued by the U.S. government. A counterintelligence polygraph is required or must be obtained upon request. Applicants must also meet additional customer-specific security requirements.
  • You have a BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related disciple with ten (10) years of experience; OR MS in the same fields with eight (8) years of experience; OR a PhD in the same fields with five (5) years of experience.
  • You have extensive experience with ground and space systems, including software acquisition, architecture, systems/software engineering, testing, and operations, with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in acquiring large, legacy-dependent systems.
  • You have demonstrated experience collaborating with senior customers, program managers, internal staff, and SEI leadership to assess and address customer needs effectively.
  • You've worked in a collaborative team environment as a software developer, software engineer, or verification engineer.
  • You understand the Department of War Systems Engineering lifecycle.
  • You're proficient in one or more of the following: C and C++, Python, MATLAB, C#, or JAVA.
  • You've worked with modern RTOSes, such as VxWorks and Integrity, and developed and analyzed embedded software.
  • You've developed embedded software and performance tests and interpreted the results.
  • You are willing to work 100% of your week onsite at either SEI or a customer facility.
  • You're willing to travel (25%) outside your office location to other SEI offices, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings.

Why work here?
Our benefits philosophy encompasses three driving priorities: choice, control, and well-being. Through Carnegie Mellon University, SEI offers a wide range of competitive employee benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, tuition benefits, generous time off, and a robust retirement savings policy to name a few.
  • Join a world-class organization that has a significant impact on software in government.
  • Work with cutting edge technologies and experts to solve tough problems for the government and the nation.
  • Get an 8% monthly contribution for your retirement plan without having to contribute to it yourself.
  • Get tuition benefits for you and your dependent children.
  • Get access to university resources including mindfulness programs, a monthly transit benefit on WMATA, free onsite gym at our Arlington facility, etc.
  • Enjoy paid parental and military leave.
  • Qualify for relocation assistance and so much more.

Location
Arlington, VA
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

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