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Phd Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

The Autonomy Software Engineer will work within the SAAM group on autonomy development and mission ... PhD, 5 years with MS, or 7 years with BS • Ability to obtain and maintain a secret security ...

As an Autonomy Software Engineer, you will work within the SAAM group to develop robust solutions ... PhD, 5 years with MS, or 7 years with BS • Ability to obtain and maintain a secret security ...

Showing results 21-40

Phd Software Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$71.7K

$166.5K

$231.9K

How much do phd software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd software engineer in Washington, DC is $166,458.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,400.00 and $195,200.00 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.
Infographic showing various Phd Software Engineer job openings in Washington, DC 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 $166,458 per year, or $80 per hour.

Software Integration & Test Engineer

TAP Engineering

Columbia, MD • On-site

$138K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Software Engineer (All Levels)

Software Engineering | Columbia, MD | Full Time

Clearance Requirement: Active TS/SCI w/ Polygraph (CCA Eligible Considered)
Education: BS in Computer Science or Related Field
Experience Requirement: All Levels Considered
Compensation Range: $138,000 – $230,000 (depending on experience and level)

Position Overview
TAP Engineering is seeking Software Engineers at all levels (SWE1, SWE2, and SWE3) to join a small, highly technical team focused on the design and testing of advanced hardware devices. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and executing test cases against operational requirements to validate system performance across a range of deployment scenarios.

The Software Engineer reviews and tests software components for adherence to design requirements and documents test results. This role also utilizes software development and design methodologies appropriate to the development environment and provides specific input to the software components of system design, including hardware/software trade-offs, software reuse, use of existing COTS/GOTS tools, and requirements analysis and synthesis from the system level down to individual software components.

Key Responsibilities

  • Developing and executing test cases against operational requirements to validate system performance across deployment scenarios
  • Reviewing and testing software components for adherence to design requirements and documenting test results
  • Applying software development and design methodologies appropriate to the development environment
  • Contributing to software component design, including hardware/software trade-offs, software reuse, COTS/GOTS tool integration, and requirements analysis

Required Qualifications

  • Active TS/SCI with polygraph (CCA eligible candidates will also be considered)
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related technical field (4 years of relevant experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree)
  • Experience performing software testing (unit testing, system testing, etc.), troubleshooting, and debugging
  • Understanding of networking concepts (OSI Model, TCP/IP, etc.)
  • Experience with C, C++, C#, Python, Java, or comparable programming languages
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Strong technical writing, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience & Compensation by Level

  • SWE1: 7+ years of experience with a BS degree
  • SWE2: 14+ years of experience with a BS degree
  • SWE3: 20+ years of experience with a BS degree

Desired Qualifications

  • Master's degree or PhD in Electrical or Computer Engineering (or related technical field)
  • Experience working with and programming FPGAs
  • Programming experience for embedded Linux, including both user-space and kernel-mode software in C
  • Development experience with Linux on ARM-based platforms
  • Automated unit-level testing experience
  • Experience with creation of Linux packages (e.g., OpenWRT/LEDE or RPM packages for Fedora/Red Hat)
  • Proficiency with networking (TCP/IP) and socket-level programming
  • Experience using Atlassian products (Jira, Confluence, etc.)

Benefits Overview
TAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

  • Paid Time Off: 15–25 days annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays (never use-or-lose)
  • Retirement: Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing
  • Medical Coverage: Free medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents
  • Dental & Vision: Employer-paid plans with optional enhancements
  • Insurance Coverage: Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework
  • Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support
  • Performance-Based Rewards: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses

Clearance Requirement
This position is contingent upon the successful completion of security processing and favorable acceptance onto the program by the Customer.

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance, based on a current background investigation (SBI), as well as the favorable completion of a polygraph. Clearance and polygraph processing will be completed by the U.S. Government. Factors considered for a U.S. Government Security Clearance include, but are not limited to:

  • U.S. Citizenship (Required)
  • Favorable Criminal History Check
  • Education Verification
  • Abuse/Illegal Drug Use
  • Credit Check
  • Subject Interview

Additional Information
By submitting your resume for this position, you acknowledge and agree that TAP Engineering may share your resume and related application materials with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for consideration for other available positions.

TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

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