1

Software Development Engineer 3 Jobs in Virginia

Software Engineer III

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$59.75 - $80.25/hr

As a Software Engineer III, you'll independently deliver high-quality work and drive projects and ... Support the development and maintenance of CI/CD pipelines and automated deployment processes

Software Development Engineer (SDET)

Merrifield, VA · On-site

$49.75 - $64.25/hr

Senior Software Development Engineer (SDET) Location: Hybrid Work Model Reporting to Vienna, VA, Pensacola, FL, San Diego, CA Pay Rate: Open to Both C2C and W2 options Position Type: Multiyear ...

Software Development Engineer (SDET)

Merrifield, VA · On-site

$49.75 - $64.25/hr

Senior Software Development Engineer (SDET) Location: Hybrid Work Model Reporting to Vienna, VA, Pensacola, FL, San Diego, CA Pay Rate: Open to Both C2C and W2 options Position Type: Multiyear ...

Software Development Engineer (SDET)

Merrifield, VA · On-site

$49.75 - $64.25/hr

Senior Software Development Engineer (SDET) Location: Hybrid Work Model Reporting to Vienna, VA, Pensacola, FL, San Diego, CA Pay Rate: Open to Both C2C and W2 options Position Type: Multiyear ...

Software Development Engineer in Test - SDET

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$51.50 - $66.50/hr

Software Development Engineer in Test - SDET Location(s): Merrifield, VA (Hybrid) Basic Purpose: Your role will be a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) working in a Scrum environment, you ...

We are a fast paced and diverse team of database specialists and software engineers responsible for ... We are looking for individuals who have strong experience in backend development specializing in ...

We are a fast paced and diverse team of database specialists and software engineers responsible for ... We are looking for individuals who have strong experience in backend development specializing in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software Development Engineer 3 information

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A senior software development engineer or principal engineer at large technology companies can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Such compensation typically requires extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities in high-demand environments.

What does a software engineer 3 do?

A Software Development Engineer 3 typically designs, develops, and maintains complex software systems, often taking on technical leadership roles within projects. They are expected to have strong coding skills, experience with software architecture, and the ability to mentor junior engineers. They often work with tools like version control systems and participate in code reviews to ensure quality.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In the context of a Software Development Engineer 3 role, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of seniority or experience within a company's engineering ladder. L1 is usually entry-level or junior, while L4 indicates a senior or lead engineer with more responsibilities, expertise, and often mentorship duties. These levels help define expectations, skills, and compensation for software developers at various stages of their careers.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior software development engineers, especially those with extensive experience, expertise in high-demand technologies, or working at large tech companies, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in competitive markets or leadership roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Development Engineer 3, and why are they important?

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.

What are Software Development Engineer 3 (SDE3) roles and responsibilities?

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 are popular job titles related to Software Development Engineer 3 jobs in Virginia? For Software Development Engineer 3 jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Hybrid job distribution.
Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Zetier

Arlington, VA

Other

Posted 4 hours 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.