1

Software Engineer Secret Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Active Security Clearance (Secret or higher) is preferred Overview: CPMC, LLC is seeking creative and skilled Software Engineer to join our team for an government contract proposal with the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Software Engineer Secret Clearance information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

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

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer secret clearance 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 is a Software Engineer with Secret Clearance?

A Software Engineer with Secret Clearance is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains software systems for organizations that require security clearance. The 'Secret' clearance is a specific level of U.S. government security authorization, allowing the engineer to access classified information necessary for certain defense, government, or contractor projects. This clearance ensures the individual has passed a thorough background check and is trusted to handle sensitive data while performing their technical duties. Such roles are commonly found in defense, aerospace, and government sectors.

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

AspectSoftware Engineer Secret ClearanceSoftware Developer Secret Clearance
CredentialsSecurity clearance, coding skills, software development experienceSecurity clearance, coding skills, software development experience
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, secure facilitiesGovernment projects, defense contractors, secure environments
Industry UsageHigh in defense, aerospace, government sectorsSimilar sectors, often overlapping with Software Engineer roles
Search & ComparisonCommonly compared due to similar roles and clearance requirements

Both Software Engineer and Software Developer with Secret Clearance roles require similar credentials and work in secure government or defense environments. The main difference lies in job titles; 'Engineer' often implies a focus on system design and architecture, while 'Developer' emphasizes coding and implementation. Both roles are vital in defense and government sectors, with overlapping responsibilities and security requirements.

How does holding a Secret Clearance impact day-to-day responsibilities for a Software Engineer?

Holding a Secret Clearance as a Software Engineer means you'll often work on sensitive government or defense projects, which can affect daily tasks such as adhering to strict security protocols and handling classified data. You may need to attend regular security briefings, use secure communication channels, and follow detailed procedures for code review and documentation. Collaboration is typically limited to cleared team members, and you may be required to work in secure facilities. These factors can make project workflows more structured, but also provide unique opportunities to contribute to impactful, mission-critical work.

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

To thrive as a Software Engineer with Secret Clearance, you need strong programming skills (such as Python, Java, or C++), a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field, and a current U.S. Secret security clearance. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), secure coding practices, and government-specific development environments or frameworks is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in sensitive and collaborative projects. These qualifications ensure that you can develop secure, reliable software while meeting stringent government security and compliance standards.
More about Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs
What cities are hiring for Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? Cities with the most 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 Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? States with the most job openings for Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs include:
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Secret Clearance job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer (Secret Clearance Required)

Senior Software Engineer (Secret Clearance Required)

ASEC

Lexington Park, MD • Hybrid

$135K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description

Location: Lexington Park, MD

Security Clearance Requirement: Active Secret with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance

Telework Eligible? No


What You'll Do:Join a high-impact engineering team supporting an innovative new NAVAIR program!


As a Senior Software Engineer, you will develop and integrate advanced simulation software used to model aircraft avionics, mission systems, weapons, and data links. In this role, you will work in an Agile development environment leveraging modern CI pipelines and Linux-based tools to build reliable, high-quality software that directly supports the development and testing of next-generation naval aviation capabilities.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Consulting requirements documentation, cybersecurity guidance, and coding standards when making code changes to ensure consistency, readability, and correctness.
  • Utilizing Continuous Integration (CI) and automation pipelines in a Linux environment to create reproducible, quality software executable.
  • Conducting peer reviews to ensure accuracy and adherence to requirements and coding standards.
  • Requirements design implementation and integration related to the development of software programs to model aircraft avionics, mission systems, weapons and data links.
  • Participating in Sprint Planning, Sprint Reviews, and Sprint Retrospectives (story point assessment, etc.).
  • Updating PTRs in JIRA, writing test scripts, peer review of code.
  • Working within the Agile methodology.

This description outlines the general nature and scope of the role. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

Requirements

What You'll Bring:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering (or related area of study), required.
  • At least 10 years of related software engineering experience associated with modeling and simulation within the training and training systems domains. 
  • Expert-level experience with hardware/software interface coding.
  • High degree of proficiency coding with C++ and Ansible.
  • Linux command line proficiency.
  • Knowledge of networked simulation protocols (DIS, HLA).
  • Demonstrated experience with software engineering functions, e.g., requirement analysis and definition, configuration management, quality assurance, risk analysis/assessment, etc. 

Equally Important:

  • Ability to build positive, collaborative relationships across teams and with external partners.
  • Effective communicator with strong verbal and written skills.
  • Proactive, self-directed work style with the ability to operate independently.
  • Analytical thinker with proven problem-solving capabilities.
  • Highly organized, with the ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

ASEC is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs, and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws.


Security Clearance Requirement:

  • This position requires U.S. citizenship and an active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance. Selected candidate will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Salary Range:

  • The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $135,000 - $160,000, commensurate with an individual's experience, qualifications, and skill set. ASEC is committed to providing fair and equitable compensation.

Who We Are:


ASEC offers meaningful, mission-driven work within a culture that supports your professional and personal growth. We partner with our government customers to deliver innovative solutions across engineering, information technology, training, and logistics. Above all, we are committed to doing what's right for the Warfighter-plain and simple. Explore what makes ASEC different by visiting our website.


Why work at ASEC?

  • 100% employee-owned company. Learn more about our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) here!
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including 11 paid holidays, medical/dental/vision coverage, HSA/FSA options, disability insurance, and more!
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Tuition assistance for undergraduate and graduate education
  • Veteran-friendly employer
  • Thriving employee culture

Not the right opportunity for you? Send this job posting to a friend!


ASEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, hire, train, compensate, and promote employees based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), or any other status protected by law.

ASEC also complies with all applicable pay transparency laws and will not discriminate against employees or applicants for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing compensation.