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

Java Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Qualifications * 8 years with BS/BA; 6 years with MS/MA; 3 years with PhD, 12 years with HS diploma ... Experience with Java, J2EE software engineering * Experience with design and development

Java Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Qualifications * 8 years with BS/BA; 6 years with MS/MA; 3 years with PhD, 12 years with HS diploma ... Experience with Java, J2EE software engineering * Experience with design and development

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 ...

Must be pursuing a Bachelor's degree, a Master's degree, or a PhD in computer science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Wireless Engineering, Information Security ...

S. or PhD) in computer science, machine learning, AI, or a related field is preferred and may substitute for some years of experience * Demonstrable understanding of software engineering principles ...

Showing results 41-60

Phd Software Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$71.9K

$167K

$232.7K

How much do phd software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd software engineer in Washington, DC is $167,023.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,900.00 and $195,900.00 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 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.
Infographic showing various Phd Software Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $167,023 per year, or $80.3 per hour.

Java Software Engineer

Herndon, VA • On-site


Peraton
IT Services • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 225 rated it services

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$86K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking a Software Engineer.

This position is onsite in Herndon, VA.

This role will perform the following but not limited too:

  • Conducts research in design, development, testing and utilization of electronic data processing software.
  • Designs, develops, documents, tests and debugs applications software and systems that contain logical and mathematical solutions.
  • Conducts multidisciplinary research and collaborates with equipment designers and/or hardware engineers in the planning, design, development, and utilization of electronic data processing systems for product and commercial software.
  • Determines computer user needs; analyzes system capabilities to resolve problems on program intent, output requirements, input data acquisition, programming techniques and controls; prepares operating instructions; designs and develops compilers and assemblers, utility programs, and operating systems.
  • Ensures software standards are met.
  • Analyzes user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.
  • Confers with systems analysts, engineers, programmers, and others to design system and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.
  • Designs, develops, and modifies software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcomes and consequences of design.
  • Coordinates software system installations and monitors equipment functioning to ensure specifications are met.
Qualifications
  • 8 years with BS/BA; 6 years with MS/MA; 3 years with PhD, 12 years with HS diploma
  • Must have Security + certification.
  • Must have active clearance or ability to obtain Public Trust
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Experience with Java, J2EE software engineering
  • Experience with design and development
  • Experience with system installations
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$86,000 - $138,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017


What Peraton employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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