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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 ...

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Software Engineer Secret Clearance information

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$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.
Jr. Software Engineer (SECRET)

Jr. Software Engineer (SECRET)

CPMC LLC

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Company: CPMC, LLC

Contract: Government contract proposal with the Department of Navy

Duration: 5-year government contract

Position Levels: Jr. - Mid Level

Clearance: 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 Department of Navy. We are hiring for both Mid-Level and Senior-Level positions.

Software Engineers research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. You may also perform the following duties:

  • Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis.
  • Update or enhance existing software capabilities.
  • Work with other functional disciplines (e.g., project management, acquisition, logistics, security, etc.) to integrate hardware and software systems, develop specifications, and performance requirements.
  • Maintain databases within an application area.
  • Typical Education:

    Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field such as engineering or mathematics (e.g. Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or Information Systems), Associates degree will be considered.

    Typical Experience:
  • 37 years of professional experience with software engineering
  • Additional Guidelines:
  • Experience with applying programming concepts in a professional or academic setting.
  • Experience with applying modern software development methodologies (e.g. agile, DEVOPS/DEVSECOPS) in a professional or academic setting.
  • Agile Developer certification or Certified Scrum Developer certification

CPMC-LLC logo

About CPMC-LLC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Tysons Corner, VA, US

Year founded

2016