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Remote Defense Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Frontier Technology Inc.

$140K - $220K/yr

FTI delivers mission-focused solutions to the Department of Defense (DoD/DoW) and Intelligence ... Remote

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Remote Defense Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote defense 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 Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Defense Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or software engineering, proficiency in programming languages like C++ or Python, and often a security clearance. Familiarity with defense-specific tools such as MATLAB, embedded systems, simulation software, and secure version control platforms is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective remote communication skills help engineers collaborate and deliver reliable solutions. These skills ensure the secure development of mission-critical software and seamless teamwork in distributed defense environments.

How does working remotely as a Defense Software Engineer impact collaboration and project security?

As a Remote Defense Software Engineer, you will often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams through secure communication platforms and version control systems. While remote work offers flexibility, it also requires strict adherence to cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive information. You may face challenges such as managing secure access, coordinating across time zones, and maintaining seamless communication. Employers typically provide secure VPNs, encrypted messaging, and regular security training to ensure compliance with defense industry standards. Close coordination with project managers and fellow engineers is essential to deliver high-quality, secure solutions.

What is a Remote Defense Software Engineer?

A Remote Defense Software Engineer is a software professional who designs, develops, and maintains software systems for defense-related applications while working remotely. These engineers may work on projects such as cybersecurity, military communication systems, simulation software, or weapons control platforms. Their work often requires a high level of security clearance and compliance with government regulations. Remote roles allow them to collaborate with teams and complete tasks from various locations, leveraging secure communication and development tools. They must be adept at both technical problem-solving and adhering to strict security protocols.

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

AspectRemote Defense Software EngineerRemote Cybersecurity Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related, security certificationsBachelor's in CS, cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP)
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agencies, secure environmentsTech firms, security companies, consulting firms
Industry UsageDefense, military, government projectsCybersecurity, IT security, private sector
Common Search IntentDefense-specific security rolesCybersecurity roles in various industries

The main difference between a Remote Defense Software Engineer and a Remote Cybersecurity Software Engineer lies in their focus and work environment. Defense Software Engineers typically work on military and government security systems, requiring security clearances and specialized knowledge. Cybersecurity Software Engineers focus on protecting data and systems across various industries, often with different certifications. Both roles require strong security skills but serve distinct sectors and project types.

Infographic showing various Remote Defense Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
AI/ML Software Engineer

AI/ML Software Engineer

Frontier Technology Inc.

Chesapeake, VA • On-site, Remote

$140K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Overview
Frontier Technology Inc. (FTI) is seeking an AI/ML Software Engineer to design, build, and deploy secure, scalable software and data systems that support mission operations, analytics, and simulation environments. This role is for a hands-on engineer and someone who loves writing code, building systems end-to-end, and solving real-world technical challenges in secure, distributed environments.
FTI delivers mission-focused solutions to the Department of Defense (DoD/DoW) and Intelligence Community (IC) through advanced engineering, digital transformation, and program execution expertise. We help our customers solve complex challenges by integrating people, process, and technology.
Responsibilities
Software Design & Development
  • Design and implement APIs, data pipelines, and simulation runtime logic that connect and enable mission applications.
  • Develop software using modern programming languages such as Java, Python, C++, or TypeScript/Angular.
  • Write clean, testable, and maintainable code following secure coding and software engineering best practices.
  • Build and integrate modular microservices to improve scalability, maintainability, and interoperability.

Cloud & Containerized Environments
  • Build and deploy containerized, cloud-native services using Docker, Kubernetes, and CI/CD pipelines (GitLab, Jenkins, or equivalent).
  • Implement Infrastructure-as-Code and automation scripts to accelerate deployment and configuration management.
  • Contribute to secure deployments across hybrid or disconnected environments (IL4-IL6, AWS GovCloud, or on-prem).

Systems Integration & Distributed Computing
  • Develop distributed systems and data integration frameworks using message buses such as Kafka or Redis.
  • Engineer data flow between analytic, AI, and simulation components to support real-time mission use cases.
  • Collaborate with system engineers and architects to ensure interoperability across software ecosystems.

Data & Analytics Integration
  • Build and manage databases (PostgreSQL, MongoDB, graph DBs) and model complex data relationships.
  • Develop data services that feed analytics pipelines or integrate AI/ML outputs into runtime systems.
  • Work with serialization and exchange formats such as JSON, Protobuf, GeoJSON, or KML.

Security, Testing & Sustainment
  • Write, test, and deploy software within secure or classified environments.
  • Automate testing and monitoring to ensure performance, reliability, and repeatable deployments.
  • Support the transition of prototypes to operational systems, focusing on maintainability and observability.

Education/Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and be willing to obtain and maintain a secruity clearance, as needed.
  • 6-10+ years of professional software engineering experience.
  • 3+ years of professional experience with DevSecOps, Zero-Trust, or ATO/RMF processes in Department of Defense (DoD/DoW) environments.
  • Strong full-stack or systems engineering background.
  • Proficiency in one or more of the following languages: Java, Python, C++, or TypeScript/Angular.
  • Experience building containerized, cloud-native solutions using Docker, Kubernetes, and CI/CD pipelines.
  • Complete understanding of distributed systems and message buses (Kafka, Redis, etc.).
  • Experience developing or integrating analytics and AI models into production systems.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience deploying code in IL4-IL6 or edge/disconnected environments.
  • Familiarity with databases such as PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or graph databases.
  • Knowledge of Infrastructure-as-Code (Terraform, CloudFormation, or CDK).
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Active Secret clearance preferred; ability to obtain one is required.

For this role, the compensation range is $140k-$220k.
*Note: Starting pay will be based on a number of factors and commensurate with the candidate's residence location, qualifications & experience.
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