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Software Engineer Intern Secret Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Caddi

Software Engineer Intern

Seattle, WA

$30 - $35/hr

We're a small, fast-moving team based in Seattle, and we're looking for a sharp, curious Software Engineering Intern to help us validate and improve the workflows built by our AI systems. You'll work ...

CADDi

Software Engineer Intern

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

We're a small, fast-moving team based in Seattle, and we're looking for a sharp, curious Software Engineering Intern to help us validate and improve the workflows built by our AI systems. You'll work ...

Caddi

Software Engineer Intern

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

We're a small, fast-moving team based in Seattle, and we're looking for a sharp, curious Software Engineering Intern to help us validate and improve the workflows built by our AI systems. You'll work ...

Nirmata

AI Software Engineer Intern

San Jose, CA

As an AI/ML Software Engineer Intern, you will define and implement the AI/ML infrastructure powering Nirmata's Policy Management platform. You will also contribute to the development of AI-powered ...

Tenex.AI Inc

Software Engineer Intern

San Jose, CA · On-site

  • Medical

We are seeking a highly motivated and versatile Full Stack Engineer Intern to join our core ... Participate in all aspects of software development activities, including design, coding, code ...

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How much do software engineer intern secret clearance jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for software engineer intern secret clearance in the United States is $25.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer intern with secret clearance?

A Software Engineer Intern with Secret Clearance is a student or recent graduate who is temporarily employed to support software development projects within organizations that require access to classified information. The 'Secret Clearance' indicates they have passed a thorough background check by the U.S. government, allowing them to work on projects involving sensitive national security information. This position typically combines hands-on technical work with exposure to secure development environments, making it essential for the intern to follow strict security protocols while contributing to software solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer intern with secret clearance?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Intern with Secret Clearance, you need foundational programming skills (such as Python, Java, or C++), problem-solving abilities, and eligibility for a U.S. government security clearance. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and basic understanding of secure coding practices are often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and a commitment to learning help interns stand out in collaborative and sensitive environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for contributing to secure projects, handling sensitive information responsibly, and effectively working within government or defense teams.

What are some unique challenges software engineer interns with secret clearance might face during their internship?

Software Engineer Interns with Secret Clearance often encounter the challenge of working with sensitive or classified information, which requires strict adherence to security protocols and procedures. This can limit access to certain resources or software and may restrict the ability to discuss work outside secure environments, making collaboration more structured. Interns may also need to quickly adapt to specialized tools or processes used in government or defense projects. However, these experiences provide valuable exposure to high-stakes projects and build strong skills in secure software development practices.
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Software Engineer Intern Secret Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Intern Secret Clearance job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,867 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Security Software Engineer - Top Secret Clearance

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SECURITY SOFTWARE ENGINEER - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE
As a Security Software Engineer for the Special Programs team, you will contribute to the software development lifecycle for both application and hardware systems, particularly in U.S. Government and ITAR-controlled environments. Expertise in cybersecurity fundamentals and familiarity with ITAR regulations will be beneficial to securely handle ITAR-controlled technical data and payloads. A successful Security Software Engineer will see the big picture, prioritize accordingly, and be comfortable working at different levels of abstraction. Ideal candidates will have notable skills in one or more of the following:
  • Application security
  • Applied cryptography
  • Network security
  • Operating system security
  • Secure/authenticated boot
  • Incident response and adversary detection
  • Vulnerability research

Being flexible, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams are paramount to success here. If you are passionate about building quality products, love the challenges of outsmarting adversaries, and want to make an impact on an interplanetary scale, then you will fit right in.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Maintain existing production systems and improve security posture via both direct implementation and recommendations to other teams.
  • Build prototypes and help identify, design, and test security improvements.
  • Implement and promote secure coding practices and software development security methodologies throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Implement and enforce secure coding practices (SAST, DAST, threat modeling) throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Work closely with software engineers to set software needs, ensure hardware and software integrate smoothly, troubleshoot and fix major system problems.
  • Partner with various teams to define software requirements, system design, and integration strategies.
  • Review and guide software development for ITAR-controlled payloads, following all export laws and company rules strictly.
  • Ensure all software work and outputs meet U.S. Government standards and ITAR regulations.
  • Handle ITAR systems extensively, including controlling access to sensitive technical data and complying with all relevant rules.
  • Create and update detailed software documentation, including design specs, test plans, verification steps, and reports needed for U.S. Government contracts and ITAR compliance.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or another STEM discipline; or 2+ years of professional experience in security software development in lieu of a degree.
  • Experience with one or more software development languages (i.e. Python, C++, Rust).
  • Experience designing and implementing security solutions for operating systems, distributed systems, or other enterprise/large-scale infrastructure.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience contributing security improvements to complex systems.
  • Fundamental understanding of network protocols; including the TCP/IP stack as well as UDP based protocols.
  • Experienced in navigating large, complex, interactive systems.
  • Flexibility, communicating clearly, and establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with other engineering teams.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team.
  • Demonstrated ability to deal with ambiguity and to learn new technologies quickly.
  • Experience with U.S. Government contracts, including knowledge of government standards and procurement processes.
  • Deep knowledge and practical experience with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
  • Experience with software version control (e.g., Git), CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for troubleshooting complex software-hardware integration issues.
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, SpaceX reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with operational needs.
  • Note that an active clearance may provide the opportunity for you to work on sensitive SpaceX missions. If so, you will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing.
  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Security Software Engineer /Level I: $130,000.00 - $155,000.00/per year
Security Software Engineer /Level II: $150,000.00 - $180,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Those with an active clearance will receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Exempt employees are eligible for 5 days of sick leave per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to the Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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About SpaceX

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Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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