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Software Engineer Secret Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CPMC LLC

Jr. Software Engineer (SECRET)

San Diego, CA · On-site

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

As of May 31, 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 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.

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 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.

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:
What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs are:
Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Secret Clearance job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Software Engineer, C++ - Top Secret Clearance

Software Engineer, C++ - Top Secret Clearance

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 59 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.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER, C++ - TOP SECRET CLEARANCE
As a Software Engineer in Special Programs, you will design, develop, and test key aspects of an in-house solution for analysis, simulation, and prototyping of software in support of all SpaceX flight systems. You will have full ownership of new features in a scalable high-performance application used to control and test flight systems. This is a high-impact role where you will work across the engineering groups to build a high-assurance system that accelerates the development and demonstration of cutting-edge software and hardware.
Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - rather we look for smart, motivated software engineers who enjoy taking on complex challenges, work well in dynamic environments, and care about software best practices. Our software is critical to future mission successes, and we have no shortage of interesting challenges that require innovative, cutting-edge solutions.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Contribute to all aspects of software engineering and product development producing highly reliable software across all areas of the application suite
  • Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
  • Develop modules for real-time data streaming of flight systems data
  • Contribute to test automation processes and CI/CD infrastructure
  • Maintain highest standards of excellence, never settling for the status quo

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, math, or engineering
  • 1+ years of experience in software development, programming in modern C++

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Strong software design and development skills
  • Experience with data streaming and real-time data processing is a plus
  • Experience with data serialization formats such as JSON, YAML, XML and Protobuf
  • Experience in software development delivering robust and scalable software applications
  • Experience with Python, Java or Go
  • Experience with containerized solutions such as Docker and Kubernetes
  • Experience with database systems such as Postgres, MySql or Oracle.
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization, data throughput analysis and unit testing
  • Strong creative and innovative problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment by quickly adapting to changing needs and requirements
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance, or the ability and willingness to obtain one

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:
Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year
Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/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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