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Software Defined Networking Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Network Software Developer

Lexington, MA

$101K - $152K/yr

Title: Network Software Developer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security ... Support in the development of software-defined networking and/or routing approaches to solve ...

KBR, Inc.

Network Software Developer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Title: Network Software Developer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security ... Support in the development of software-defined networking and/or routing approaches to solve ...

iFlow Inc

Sr. Network Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$102K - $141K/yr

Senior Network Engineer (Forescout) Location: Dallas, TX Duration: 6 Months Experience: 1-20 Years ... Certification in Forescout is desirable Experience with SDN (Software Defined Networking) and ...

Moonlite AI

Senior Software Engineer, Network Platform

$106K - $145K/yr

Software-Defined Networking Architecture: Collaborate with infrastructure to design and build scalable SDN orchestration systems leveraging NVIDIA Bluefield-3 DPUs to deliver programmable, high ...

Emergent Tech Inc

Network Architect

Reston, VA · On-site

$67.25 - $90.25/hr

... Software-Defined Networking (SD-WAN) solutions. Collaborate with technical teams to develop and present network design documents and implementation plans. Mentor junior engineers and provide ...

Emergent Technologies Inc

Network Architect

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$66.50 - $89.25/hr

... Software-Defined Networking (SD-WAN) solutions. * Collaborate with technical teams to develop and present network design documents and implementation plans. * Mentor junior engineers and provide ...

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All JobsSoftware Defined Networking Engineer Jobs

Software Defined Networking Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do software defined networking engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for software defined networking 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 Software Defined Networking Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Defined Networking (SDN) Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking protocols, network architecture, and programming skills—typically backed by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with SDN controllers (like OpenDaylight), virtualization platforms, network automation tools, and certifications such as Cisco CCNP or VMware NSX are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing, implementing, and troubleshooting dynamic, scalable network solutions that meet evolving business needs.

What is a Software Defined Networking (SDN) Engineer?

A Software Defined Networking (SDN) Engineer is an IT professional who designs, implements, and manages networks using SDN technologies. Unlike traditional networking, SDN separates the network's control plane from the data plane, allowing engineers to programmatically control network behavior through software. SDN Engineers work with controllers, APIs, and network protocols to create flexible, scalable, and automated network environments. Their responsibilities often include integrating SDN solutions with existing infrastructure, troubleshooting network issues, and optimizing performance. This role is essential for organizations looking to modernize their networks and improve efficiency.

What are some common challenges Software Defined Networking Engineers face when integrating SDN solutions into existing network infrastructures?

Software Defined Networking Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy hardware and new SDN controllers, minimizing network downtime during migration, and managing the learning curve associated with new SDN tools and protocols. Additionally, they must address security concerns unique to programmable networks and work closely with cross-functional teams to align SDN deployments with organizational goals. Effective communication and thorough planning are key to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring a smooth transition to SDN environments.

What is the difference between Software Defined Networking Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSoftware Defined Networking EngineerNetwork Engineer
CertificationsCCNA, CCNP, Cisco DevNet, SDN-specific certificationsCCNA, CCNP, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentData centers, cloud environments, SDN platformsCorporate networks, ISPs, enterprise infrastructure
Industry UsageCloud providers, telecoms, large enterprises adopting SDNTraditional network infrastructure across various industries

Software Defined Networking Engineers focus on designing and implementing SDN solutions, leveraging automation and virtualization to manage networks. Network Engineers maintain and troubleshoot traditional network infrastructure. While both roles require networking knowledge, SDN Engineers specialize in software-based network control, making their skills more aligned with modern, programmable networks.

More about Software Defined Networking Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Software Defined Networking Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Software Defined Networking Engineer jobs are:
Software Defined Networking Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Defined Networking Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Network Software Developer

Network Software Developer

KBR

Lexington, MA

$101K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 356 rated engineering

Job description

Title:

Network Software Developer

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.

KBR is seeking individuals for multiple Software Developer positions to support research and prototyping in future networking programs. Individuals in this position operate as part of an MIT LL team and are responsible for developing software related to software defined networking, routing protocols, and associated software infrastructure.

Why Join Us?

  • Innovative Projects: Enable critically important communications over vast distances by being the team member to innovate and overcome technical challenges as we spearhead new solutions through advanced prototyping.

  • Collaborative Environment: Come join a team of enthusiastic engineers engaged in creating the next generation of cutting-edge laser communication systems technology.

  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense and/or defense.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Development of networking software for simulation, emulation, and/or testbed efforts

  • Infrastructure development including container management and deployment using Kubernetes

  • Support in the development of software-defined networking and/or routing approaches to solve problems and/or improve performance in emerging networks

Work Environment:

  • Location: On-site with the possibility of hybrid arrangement

  • Travel Requirements: Willing and able to travel (up to 10%, typically CONUS)

  • Working Hours: Standard

Qualifications:

Required:

  • Must be eligible for a DoD Security Clearance

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field

  • 3-5 years of experience

  • Experience with C++ and Python

  • Experience with Kubernetes

  • Familiarity with software-defined networking (SDN)

  • Familiarity with routing protocols

  • Good oral and communication skills

  • Ability to work within a team environment

Desired:

  • Experience with software-defined networking

  • Experience with operation and/or implementation of routing protocols

  • Possess strong oral and written communications skills, and ability to clearly and logically present findings/results to internal and external organizations

Basic Compensation:

For MA only, the salary range is approximately $101,500 - $152,200 USD annually. The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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