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Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance Jobs in Virginia

ICF

DevSecOps Engineer (Top Secret Clearance)

Reston, VA · Remote

$55 - $75.25/hr

Integrate security controls into the software development lifecycle, including static code analysis ... Active Top Secret clearance. * 2+ years of experience with DevSecOps practices, including ...

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Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer top secret clearance in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer top secret clearance?

A Software Engineer with a Top Secret Clearance develops, tests, and maintains software for projects requiring high-level security clearance. These engineers work on sensitive government or defense-related projects, ensuring secure and efficient system performance. They often use programming languages like Python, C++, or Java and must adhere to strict security protocols. This role requires U.S. citizenship and a Top Secret security clearance, which involves a rigorous background investigation.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for a software engineer with top secret clearance?

In this role, you can expect to design, develop, and maintain software systems that support national security or defense operations, often working on classified projects. Daily tasks may include writing code, debugging, conducting code reviews, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams of engineers, analysts, and project managers. You will also follow strict security protocols, attend team meetings, and ensure all work meets rigorous government compliance standards. This environment fosters continuous learning and offers exposure to innovative technologies, while teamwork and clear communication are crucial to mission success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the software engineer top secret clearance position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Engineer with Top Secret Clearance, you need a solid background in computer science, proficiency in programming languages like Java or C++, and an active Top Secret security clearance. Experience with secure software development tools, version control systems such as Git, and knowledge of cybersecurity protocols are typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication skills set top candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are essential to develop, maintain, and safeguard sensitive systems in high-security environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs in Virginia?

For Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance job openings:

Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Top Secret Clearance job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,258 per year, or $70.3 per hour.

Java Software Engineer (Top Secret)

System One Holdings, LLC

Herndon, VA • On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Java Software Developer
Top Secret Clearance required
Security+ certification is highly desired
Direct Hire
100% Remote
The specific platform knowledge (currently MuleSoft) can be learned. What cannot easily be taught is the engineering mindset and the ability to build high-quality software.
While it is desirable for candidates to already possess Security+ certification and an active Top Secret clearance; our primary focus is on identifying exceptional software developers.
What We're Looking For:
We are looking for someone who has consistently demonstrated excellence as a software developer-someone whose peers and leaders recognize them for delivering high-quality work.
The ideal candidate has an engineering temperament: the ability to understand complex systems, reduce complexity through thoughtful design, and express that clarity through well-crafted code and architecture.
They should possess a builder's mindset-a belief that they can create solutions to difficult problems, a desire to build things well, and the initiative to improve systems without waiting to be asked.
We value developers who thrive in collaborative environments, enjoy challenging one another to improve, and are committed to delivering results. We are looking for someone who takes ownership, contributes beyond the minimum expectations, and is invested in the success of the team.
Technical Background:
No specific programming language or platform is more important than demonstrated engineering capability. However, experience in the following areas would reduce the learning curve:
• Java
• Linux
• Networking
• MuleSoft (preferred, but not a primary hiring criterion)
• MuleSoft experience is a plus, but we are intentionally hiring for software engineering talent rather than platform specialization. A great developer can learn MuleSoft; the reverse is not always true.
Experience:
• We want to see evidence of candidates building meaningful software components or systems and consistently going above and beyond in their projects.
• A senior engineer with broad or deep experience would be an excellent fit, but seniority alone is not the deciding factor. A junior developer who demonstrates exceptional aptitude, initiative, and the potential to grow into a highly capable senior engineer is equally compelling.
• Finally, candidates who bring unexpected strengths-whether in systems engineering, performance optimization, security, infrastructure, automation, or another technical discipline-are especially attractive. We value people who can surprise us with capabilities that make the entire team stronger.
System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan.
System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
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Ref: #851-Rockville-S1
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About System One

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

System One helps employers get work done more efficiently and economically without compromising quality. Over our 35+ year history, we've helped connect thousands of talented people with innovative companies. The excitement of a perfect fit motivates us every single day.

Industry

Business consulting services and recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

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