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Phd Software Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Software/Data Engineer

Laurel, MD · On-site

$114K - $137K/yr

... a PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field from an accredited college or university OR • Twenty (20) years of experience in Software Engineering with a High School ...

Be Seen First

... BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, or related field · Proven experience in robotics software development with successful project delivery · Strong software engineering fundamentals ...

Be Seen First

... BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, or related field · Proven experience in robotics software development with successful project delivery · Strong software engineering fundamentals ...

Principal Software/Data Engineer

Laurel, MD · On-site

$134K - $180K/yr

... a PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or appropriate field from an accredited ... disciplines. • Software development • Develop Operations • Experience using network ...

Showing results 21-40

Phd Software Engineer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$63.1K

$146.6K

$204.2K

How much do phd software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd software engineer in Baltimore, MD is $146,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,200.00 and $171,900.00 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?

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 near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Phd Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Phd Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Phd Software Engineer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, 66% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 82% In-person, and 18% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $146,585 per year, or $70.5 per hour.

$121K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you a software engineer passionate about computer science, computer engineering, and the robotic exploration of our solar system?
Does solving embedded software challenges sound motivating?
If so, we 're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking a dedicated embedded software developer eager to solve hard problems in space using best-practice software development practices. The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (JHUAPL) Space Exploration Sector develops spacecraft for both National Security applications and NASA funded exploration missions. Our group is a collaborative team of software developers, applied mathematicians/physicists and embedded system engineers that develop flight software and simulations for JHUAPL-developed spacecraft. Our embedded software developers work closely with hardware engineers to provide a rock-solid, continuously tested software stack capable of commanding and relaying data from billions of kilometers away. We value pushing the boundaries of the possible, staying up to date with software practices, and constantly infusing our knowledge into our spacecraft and the systems that support them.
As a flight software developer, your responsibilities include...
  • Using solid embedded practices to build the software that runs a spacecraft.
  • Building and maintaining a robust testing pipeline at the unit, application and system testing levels.
  • Communicating with other spacecraft teams including avionics, telecommunications, networking, navigation, systems, and integration and test to understand flight software interfaces and requirements.
  • Design, implement and test software to solve problems in a variety of embedded environments, with an emphasis on modular, reusable software.
  • Working with technical specialists at JHUAPL to research, advance, and advocate for emerging software practices, architectures and languages.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have....
  • A Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or equivalent.
  • At least 5 years of experience in software development (years pursuing graduate degrees may also be combined toward this qualification).
  • Expertise in C and C++.
  • Experience with scripting languages (Python, Ruby or PERL).
  • Experience with decentralized version control and configuration management systems, such as Git.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, initiative, and independent follow-through.
  • Are able to obtain a Top Secret/SCI level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You 'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have...
  • A MS or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or equivalent.
  • At least 7 years of professional work experience.
  • Familiarity with flight software libraries, applications, and frameworks including NASA 's cFE (Core Flight Executive).
  • Experience with real time operating systems including RTEMS, RT Linux and VxWorks.
  • Experience with DevOps pipelines like GitLab and Bamboo.
  • Experience with additional languages such as Rust or Go.
  • Experience using or configuring containerization frameworks such Docker/Podman and Kubernetes.
  • Experience with networking and communication protocol development such as TCP/IP, mesh, CCSDS protocols, DTN.
  • Experience leading software development teams.
  • Possesss a TS/SCI security clearance.

Be Part of Something Innovative
Over the past 25 years, the Space Exploration Sector at APL, has pushed the boundaries of what is possible; delivering game-changing impacts to sponsors like NASA and the Department of War. These impacts include historic, science space firsts like New Horizons reaching Pluto, Parker Solar Probe being the first to "touch" the sun, and the DART mission that redirected an asteroid for planetary defense. As a not-for-profit university affiliated research center, APL also delivered solutions to our nation's national security challenges, as proven with the recent Deep Space Advanced Radar Concept (DARC) Tech Demo, and acts as a trusted partner with the US Space Force in space domain awareness and space-integrated warfare.
APL teams are currently developing missions that will advance the search for life in the Solar System through programs such as the Dragonfly mission to Saturn's moon Titan and designing and developing the technology to build infrastructure in the lunar and cislunar domains, and other research and technology endeavors. To learn about these APL's mission and projects, https://civspace.jhuapl.edu/ and https://www.jhuapl.edu/OurWork/NationalSecuritySpace.
#LI-KW1
About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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