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Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance information

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$75.5K

$143.3K

$192K

How much do senior software engineer secret clearance jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior software engineer secret clearance in the United States is $143,292.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,500.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Senior Software Engineer with Secret Clearance?

A Senior Software Engineer with Secret Clearance is an experienced software developer who has been granted access to classified information by the government. This role typically involves designing, developing, and maintaining complex software systems for organizations that require high levels of security, such as defense contractors or government agencies. The 'Secret Clearance' indicates that the engineer has passed a background investigation and is trusted to handle sensitive information that could impact national security if disclosed. In addition to technical skills, this position requires a strong understanding of security protocols and compliance standards.

What are some unique challenges Senior Software Engineers with Secret Clearance may face in their daily work?

Senior Software Engineers with Secret Clearance often work on highly sensitive projects that require strict adherence to security protocols, which can affect how code is developed, tested, and deployed. Collaboration may be limited to cleared team members and internal stakeholders, and access to certain tools or resources can be restricted for security reasons. Additionally, documentation and communication must be handled with extra care to prevent unauthorized information disclosure, making attention to detail and discretion essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Software Engineer with Secret Clearance, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Software Engineer with Secret Clearance, you need expertise in software development, systems architecture, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field and active Secret security clearance. Proficiency with programming languages (such as Java, C++, or Python), development tools, and secure coding practices—along with familiarity with configuration management and CI/CD systems—is expected. Strong communication, leadership, and collaboration skills help you effectively guide teams and interact with stakeholders in sensitive environments. These competencies ensure secure, high-quality software delivery and compliance with government standards in mission-critical projects.

What is the difference between Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance vs Software Engineer Secret Clearance?

AspectSenior Software Engineer Secret ClearanceSoftware Engineer Secret Clearance
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field, experience, security clearanceBachelor's degree in CS or related field, security clearance
Work EnvironmentAdvanced projects, leadership roles, complex problem-solvingDevelopment tasks, coding, testing, support roles
Employer & IndustryDefense contractors, government agencies, aerospaceDefense contractors, government agencies, aerospace
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior-level roles with clearanceEntry to mid-level roles with clearance

The main difference between a Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance and a Software Engineer Secret Clearance lies in experience, responsibilities, and project complexity. Senior roles typically involve leadership, complex problem-solving, and mentorship, while standard roles focus on development and support tasks. Both positions require security clearance and work within similar industries, but the senior position demands more experience and strategic input.

More about Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? Cities with the most Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? The most popular types of Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Software Engineer Secret Clearance job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,292 per year, or $68.9 per hour.
Software Engineer - Secret Clearance

Software Engineer - Secret Clearance

Lockheed Martin

Colorado Springs, CO

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

What We're Doing
Our Team, the Command and Control, Battle Management and Communications (C2BMC) Experimentation Lab (X-LAB) is a very fast paced and dynamic environment. It is engineering, developing and integrating new capability for the Missile Defense System that currently protects the United States and its allies. The team consists of many small agile teams that work together in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. Our team is also, responsible for tasks such as Sensor/Weapon Integration, Algorithm Development, User Interface Development, Automated Testing, Cyber Security and enhancing other critical, leading-edge missile defense technologies.
What You Will Be Doing
We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly motivated mid-level software engineer to join our team in Colorado Springs to develop and test innovative solutions in support of X-Lab projects and experiments.
Please Note:
This position requires a government security clearance at the Secret level; you must be a US Citizen for consideration.
This position is located at Schriever, Space Force Base 10 miles east of Colorado Springs, CO and is 100% onsite.
This position may involve around 10% travel to our customer sites throughout the U.S. Additionally, this position will occasionally support test events that occur off-hours i.e. overnight or on weekends.
Who We Are
As leader of the C2BMC team, Lockheed Martin directs a partnership of highly responsive industry leaders developing and fielding the backbone of America's missile defense. Together, this national team supports the design, development, test, integration and fielding of hardware and software elements that enable the Missile Defense System (MDS) to function effectively and continually. As a C2BMC team member, you will also have the opportunity to interface with our key customers in the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and you will collaborate with a team of technical professionals including software and systems engineers, architects, and our project engineering team.
Why Join Us
Your Health, Your Wealth, Your Life
Our flexible schedules, competitive pay and comprehensive benefits enable you to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work.
https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/careers/why-lm.html

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912