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Software Development Engineer 3 Jobs in Virginia

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Reston, VA · On-site

$52 - $67/hr

Our Reston team is seeking a mid-level Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to help build ... At least 3 years of industry experience * Experience building test infrastructure including mocking ...

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - 3+ years of non-internship professional software development experience - 2+ ... programming language PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - 3+ years of full software development life cycle ...

As a Software Development Engineer , you will focus on designing and implementing robust event-driven architectures that enhance observability and enable comprehensive tracking of events across ...

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - 3+ years of non-internship professional software development experience - 2+ ... programming language PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - 3+ years of full software development life cycle ...

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Reston, VA · On-site

$52 - $67/hr

Our Reston team is seeking a mid-level Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to help build ... At least 3 years of industry experience * Experience building test infrastructure including mocking ...

Senior SDET

Vienna, VA · On-site

$65/hr

Top 3 Required Skills: * Hands-on development/coding (Java) * Hand on experience with UI+API+DB ... Additionally, SDET is responsible for providing support for one or more existing software ...

Software Engineer III (S)

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$54.50 - $73.25/hr

They are seeking a Software Engineer III who will be responsible for independently executing software design and development tasks, leading agile teams, and mentoring junior staff while developing ...

Showing results 21-40

Software Development Engineer 3 information

What are the roles and responsibilities of a Software Development Engineer 3?

A Software Development Engineer 3 (SDE3) is a senior-level software engineer responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining complex software systems. They often lead technical initiatives, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to architectural decisions. SDE3s are expected to have deep expertise in their technology stack, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to drive projects from conception to deployment. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality software solutions and may also participate in code reviews and technical interviews.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a Software Development Engineer 3?

To thrive as a Software Development Engineer 3, you need advanced proficiency in programming languages like Java, Python, or C++, strong problem-solving abilities, and a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field. Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git), cloud platforms (e.g., AWS or Azure), and familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and relevant certifications are often required. Effective communication, leadership, and collaboration skills help in mentoring junior engineers and working within agile teams. These competencies enable you to deliver robust software solutions, drive technical excellence, and contribute to both team and organizational success.

How does a Software Development Engineer 3 typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the software development lifecycle?

As a Software Development Engineer 3, you will often work closely with product managers, quality assurance engineers, UX designers, and other developers to ensure alignment on project goals and technical requirements. Collaboration usually involves participating in sprint planning, code reviews, and design discussions, as well as providing mentorship to junior engineers. This level of engagement fosters a deeper understanding of the product and helps deliver high-quality software solutions that meet user and business needs.

What is a Software Development Engineer 3?

A Software Development Engineer 3 (SDE 3) is a senior-level software engineer responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining complex software systems. They typically have several years of experience, strong coding skills in languages like Java or C++, and expertise in system architecture and problem-solving. SDE 3 roles often involve mentoring junior engineers and leading technical projects.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Software Development Engineer 3 jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Software Development Engineer 3 job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Development Engineer 3 job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Zetier

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Zetier seeks Software Development Engineers in Test (SDET) to design, build, and maintain scalable automated testing capabilities for embedded hardware, cyber platforms, and operational software systems. This role focuses on developing robust test infrastructure, improving product reliability, and enabling continuous validation across hardware and software solutions. Candidates will develop automated validation frameworks, integrate testing into CI/CD pipelines, and support verification activities spanning low-level firmware, networking systems, and mission-driven software capabilities. Work includes functional, integration, regression, and hardware-in-the-loop testing aligned with quality, operational effectiveness, and compliance objectives.

Required:

  • 5+ years experience in software development or test engineering
  • Strong programming experience in Python, C/C++, and/or Rust
  • Experience deploying automated test frameworks (e.g. pytest, Robot)
  • Experience testing embedded or Linux-based systems platforms
  • Hands-on experience integrating testing into CI/CD pipelines
  • Familiar debugging complex HW/SW system interactions
  • Comfortable writing clear technical documentation (e.g. test reports)
  • Strong communication skills across engineering and customer teams
  • Active U.S. security clearance

Desired:

  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and device automation
  • Experience testing embedded systems, networking devices, or mobile
  • Experience with containerization (e.g. Docker, Kubernetes, QEMU)
  • Familiar with network/protocol validation (e.g. Wireshark, Scapy)
  • Experience with RF or wireless systems (e.g. 802.11ac, Zigbee, SDR)
  • Experience testing firmware, drivers, and low-level code/services
  • Exposure to cybersecurity, vulnerability research, or pentest teams
  • Experience with observability, telemetry, or reliability engineering


Positions available in Arlington, VA.

Zetier is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by law. All employment is decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business need.