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Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

$160K - $225K/yr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft ... remote considered for highly qualified candidate) Compensation: $160,000 - $225,000 #LI-Remote ...

SciTec

Senior Software Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site +1

$119.10K - $157K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... remote sensing algorithms, tools, and techniques to deliver world-class data exploitation ...

SciTec

Sr. Staff Software Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site +1

$119.10K - $157K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... remote sensing algorithms, tools, and techniques to deliver world-class data exploitation ...

SciTec

Senior Numerical Algorithm Software Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site +1

$127K - $167.50K/yr

... defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and ... Lead the research, development, and maturation of advanced numerical algorithms for remote sensing ...

Clarity Innovations

Principal Software Engineer

$138.20K - $185.30K/yr

... Defense (DoD) to transform data into actionable intelligence, ensuring mission success in an ... Government/Contractor software teams. Primary Responsibilities include (but not limited to)

Spear AI

Software Engineer - Mid

Spear AI is a growing defense contracting company dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that support our nation's security. They are seeking a Software Engineer to develop and maintain full ...

Defense Unicorns

Senior Software Engineer

$148.75K - $201.25K/yr

Remote - USA $148,750-$201,250 USD Who We Are Defense Unicorns delivers mission value by ... Our team is composed of innovators, software engineers, and veterans with decades of experience ...

Defense Unicorns

Software Engineer (Mid-Senior)

$123.25K - $201.25K/yr

As a Software Engineer, you'll operate at the intersection of product development and technical ... Remote - USA $123,250-$201,250 USD Who We Are Defense Unicorns delivers mission value by ...

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$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do remote defense contractor software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote defense contractor software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer, you typically need a strong background in computer science or engineering, proficiency in programming languages like C++ or Java, and active security clearance. Familiarity with secure coding practices, embedded systems, and tools such as Git, Jira, and specialized defense software development environments is crucial. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and self-motivation are standout soft skills for remote collaboration and meeting strict project requirements. These competencies ensure secure, reliable software delivery and effective teamwork in sensitive, mission-critical defense projects.

How does a Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer typically collaborate with team members and stakeholders given security and communication constraints?

Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineers often work with multidisciplinary teams, including developers, project managers, and cybersecurity specialists. Collaboration is facilitated through secure, government-approved communication platforms and version control systems that comply with strict security protocols. Regular virtual meetings and documentation are essential to ensure alignment on project requirements and updates. While remote work offers flexibility, engineers must be diligent in following procedures for handling sensitive information and may sometimes need to access secure facilities for classified work. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming the challenges of working in a highly regulated, remote environment.

What is a Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer?

A Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer is a software developer who works for a company contracted by government defense agencies to build, maintain, or secure software systems, but does their work from a remote location instead of a traditional office or on-site facility. These engineers often develop applications for military or national security use, which can include communication systems, cybersecurity tools, or mission-critical platforms. Due to the sensitive nature of their work, they may require special security clearances and must adhere to strict security protocols even while working remotely.

What is the difference between Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer vs Remote Cybersecurity Software Engineer?

AspectRemote Defense Contractor Software EngineerRemote Cybersecurity Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related, security clearances often preferredBachelor's in CS, Cybersecurity, or related; certifications like CISSP beneficial
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government projects, secure facilitiesTech companies, security firms, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military sectorsPrimarily cybersecurity and IT sectors
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for security clearance and defense projectsCompared for network security and threat mitigation roles

The Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer typically works on defense and military projects requiring security clearances, while the Remote Cybersecurity Software Engineer focuses on protecting networks and systems from cyber threats. Both roles require strong technical skills, but their industries and project types differ significantly.

More about Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs are:
Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Defense Contractor Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

Software Engineer IV (UAV Embedded)

Kratos Defense

Remote

$160K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.
Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.
At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

ABOUT THE JOB
As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will architect and implement mission-critical software for our next-generation UAV flight computers. You will be the primary link between complex flight algorithms and custom avionics hardware, developing high-performance C and C++ applications that ensure deterministic control and absolute system reliability. Working at the intersection of hardware and software, you will collaborate with electrical and GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers to design and implement complex physical-digital interactions with MATLAB/Simulink.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
• Designs, develops, and tests C++ flight software and hardware, sensor, and actuator integrations.
• Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.
• Writes software requirements specifications, software test descriptions, design descriptions, and test reports
• Designs, implements, tests, and documents software according to KUAS specifications
• Hybrid, work from office T/W/Th in Roseville, CA (Full remote considered for highly qualified candidate)

Compensation: $160,000 - $225,000

#LI-Remote


Required Experience:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Requires BS degree in Computing Science, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other technical discipline, or 15 YOE in lieu of BS degree.
• 10 years of C or C++ programming experience
• Demonstrated understanding of Object-Oriented programming principles and RTOS systems.
• Demonstrated understanding of software development life-cycle and clearly document software requirements.
• Hands on ability to troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop simulation modelling and make firmware updates
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Skills with tools such as Atlassian, MATLAB/Simulink, VxWorks, LabView
• Skills implementing interface controls based on MBSE design documentation
• Previous familiarity with OMS/UCI, A-GRA, STANAG 4586, DO-178C, AS9100, DoDI 8500.01
WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Office and or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10-key, phones).
• May work extended hours or weekends.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
• 5-10% May be required between other KUAS locations.


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