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Senior Computer Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Senior Computer Network Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$139K - $251K/yr

Description The Digital Modernization Sector at Leidos currently has an opening for a Senior Network Engineer supporting the HEITS Contract as part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS ...

Hazen and Sawyer

CAD/BIM Revit Designer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$23.50 - $32.50/hr

Executing redlines from Engineers and senior CAD Designers * Assist in Structural, HVAC, Electrical, I&C drawing development * Ensure drawing compliance with company and client CAD standards

Hazen and Sawyer

CAD/BIM Revit Designer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.75/hr

Executing redlines from Engineers and senior CAD Designers * Assist in Structural, HVAC, Electrical, I&C drawing development * Ensure drawing compliance with company and client CAD standards

Jobsonboard

$49.25 - $63.50/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a senior-level Systems Engineer to support Enhanced 9-1-1 (E-911 ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.

SIXGEN

CNO-MD TS/SCI CI POLY

Reston, VA · On-site

SIXGEN is a company focused on advanced Computer Network Operations, and they are seeking a Senior Computer Network Operator & Developer. The role involves providing technical execution, engineering ...

Peraton

Computer Scientist - Senior

Reston, VA · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

The Senior Computer Scientist utilizes expertise in designing, developing, and maintaining data ... engineering, data warehousing, data compression, data protection, and/or other scientific ...

Peraton

Computer Scientist - Senior

Reston, VA

$135K - $216K/yr

The Senior Computer Scientist utilizes expertise in designing, developing, and maintaining data ... engineering, data warehousing, data compression, data protection, and/or other scientific ...

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Senior Computer Programmer information

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How much do senior computer programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior computer programmer in Virginia is $51.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.61 and $61.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Senior Computer Programmers?

Senior Computer Programmers are experienced professionals who design, write, test, and maintain complex computer software and applications. They often lead programming teams, mentor junior developers, and contribute to architectural decisions. Their responsibilities include reviewing code for efficiency and security, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that software meets both technical and business requirements. Typically, they have several years of experience in software development and are proficient in multiple programming languages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Computer Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Computer Programmer, you need advanced proficiency in programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), strong problem-solving abilities, and a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Expertise in software development tools, version control systems (like Git), and familiarity with industry-standard frameworks is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate. Exceptional communication, leadership, and teamwork skills help you manage projects and mentor junior developers. These skills ensure you can deliver robust software solutions efficiently, drive technical innovation, and contribute effectively to team and organizational goals.

What is the difference between Senior Computer Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectSenior Computer ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; experience in programmingBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; coding experience
Work EnvironmentDevelops, tests, and maintains code; often in teamsDesigns and builds software applications; collaborates with stakeholders
Industry UsageCommon in tech, finance, healthcare sectorsWidespread across industries for application development
Search/Comparison IntentFocuses on programming expertise and experienceBroader software development responsibilities

While both roles involve coding and technical skills, a Senior Computer Programmer primarily focuses on writing, testing, and maintaining code, often with specialized programming expertise. A Software Developer typically has a broader role, including designing software solutions and collaborating with teams. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment, but their focus areas differ slightly.

What are some typical challenges Senior Computer Programmers face when leading project development?

Senior Computer Programmers often encounter challenges such as managing complex codebases, balancing hands-on coding with mentoring junior developers, and ensuring that projects meet both technical and business requirements. They are frequently responsible for architectural decisions, code reviews, and integrating new technologies, which requires staying current with industry trends. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with cross-functional teams—including product managers, designers, and QA—are essential to delivering successful software solutions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Programmer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Computer Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Computer Programmer jobs in Virginia? For Senior Computer Programmer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Computer Programmer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Computer Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Computer Programmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Computer Programmer job openings:
Senior Computer Programmer jobs near you
Sr Computer Systems/SW Systems Engineer

Sr Computer Systems/SW Systems Engineer

Zel Technologies

Dahlgren, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 hours ago

Job description

* This position is contingent upon contract award. *

* This position is eligible for a $500 ZelTech Non-Employee Referral fee. Contact ZelTech Recruiters for questions concerning this matter. *

Join Our Talent Community to Stay Connected!

Job Summary:
The Senior Computer Systems/Software Engineer will support the design, development, integration, and testing of complex hardware–software systems for Department of Defense (DoD) and Navy programs. This role requires extensive experience in computer hardware engineering, software development, Realtime systems, and integrated system architectures. The engineer will work across the full life cycle of system development, contributing to requirements management, system integration, and advanced missile related interface engineering.


Responsibilities:

  • Perform computer hardware engineering, software design, coding, and compilation activities for integrated systems.
  • Manage and define computer and software requirements, ensuring traceability and compliance across the system lifecycle.
  • Integrate hardware and software components into complex systems, including weapon and missile subsystems.
  • Utilize systems engineering software tools to support design, modeling, analysis, and documentation.
  • Engineer systems that incorporate tightly integrated hardware and software solutions.
  • Support Navy and weapon system programs through software development, testing, and interface engineering.
  • Develop and maintain software for RealTime VxWorks Symmetric Multi-Processing (SMP) environments.
  • Contribute to hardware and software development for Standard Missile (SM2, SM3, SM6) and Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) internal interfaces.
  • Work with specialized missile interfaces such as SM3 Kill Warhead Data Link (KWDL), SM3 Missile Test Data (MTD), SM2/SM6 initialization message digital interfaces, and vertical launch system interfaces.
  • Prepare technical reports, analyses, and documentation to support engineering reviews and technical decision-making.


Requirements:

  • Must be a US citizen.
  • Must have an active secret security clearance.
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in an engineering, scientific, or technical discipline.
  • Ten (10) years of professional technical experience, including at least five (5) years of specialized experience in:
  • Computer hardware engineering, embedded systems design experience.
  • Software design, coding, and compilation.
  • Computer or software requirements management.
  • Computer systems or software integration.
  • Use of systems engineering software tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to engineer complex systems with integrated hardware and software solutions.
  • Experience related to weapons systems or Navy programs.
  • Experience with HTML, C, C++, Unix, and Linux environments.
  • Specialized experience developing RealTime VxWorks SMP software.
  • Expertise in hardware and software development for missile internal interfaces, including:
  • SM3 Kill Warhead Data Link (KWDL)
  • SM3 Missile Test Data (MTD)
  • SM2/SM6 initialization message digital interface
  • Vertical launch system interfaces
  • Successful background and drug screening check.


Preferred Requirements:

  • Experience supporting Standard Missile (SM) or ESSM programs.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication abilities.

Physical Demands or Work Environment:


The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • The majority of the time is spent in an office setting.
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance, vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus.


About ZelTech:


Founded in 1988 by Ret. Col. Jack L. Ezzell Jr., Zel Technologies is a trusted leader in national security, providing comprehensive research, development, engineering, and operational support to the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and federal agencies. Originally focused on leveraging operational and software expertise to improve time-critical targeting capabilities for the military, the company advanced its capabilities to provide scientific and HUMINT expertise for CBRNE collection and analysis. In the wake of 9/11, Zel Technologies rapidly expanded its capabilities to provide turnkey ISR support services to US Special Operations Forces (SOF), as well as advanced technical & operational intelligence, physical & data science, and engineering support services to the greater Intelligence and SOF Communities supporting global counterterrorism and CWMD operations.

Today, Zel Technologies remains at the forefront of intelligence missions, advancing CWMD and global counterterrorism efforts, while also addressing emerging threats posed by near-peer adversaries. Our team remains committed to delivering adaptive, innovative, and cost-effective solutions across multiple domains, in alignment with the mission priorities of the U.S. Government and its partner nations.


Our Mission:


Through our commitment to innovation and quality, our skilled teams deliver robust, technology driven solutions and insights that empower our customers to overcome complex challenges and achieve their mission objectives.


Our Workforce:


ZelTech team members represent a wide range of backgrounds, skills, experience, and personalities bound together by common objectives and mutual respect. You will join a caring community of professional, including many military veterans who challenge and support each other in seeking the right solutions to important matters.


Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 401k immediate vesting with company match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Health Savings Account with company contributions
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Bonuses for performance
  • Voluntary life/accidental death & dismemberment
  • Educational assistance and special training programs
  • Voluntary benefits (accidental, critical illness, whole life)
  • Group life insurance (Company paid)
  • Short-term and Long-term Disability Insurance (Company paid)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO), Holiday Leave, Jury Duty, and Military Leave
  • Health and fitness reimbursement
  • Referral bonuses
  • Employee discounts on various services and products


Equal Opportunities:


ZelTech is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, marital status, military status, genetic predisposition, or any other basis protected by law.

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