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Software Engineering Assistant Jobs in Cambridge, MA

L3Harris Technologies

Software Engineering

Somerville, MA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Lead, Embedded Software Test Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max) Job Code ... * Assist in the set-up, configuration, and documentation of hardware and software systems under ...

L3Harris Technologies

Software Engineering

Nonantum, MA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Lead, Embedded Software Test Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max) Job Code ... * Assist in the set-up, configuration, and documentation of hardware and software systems under ...

L3Harris Technologies

Software Engineering

Westford, MA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Lead, Embedded Software Test Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max) Job Code ... * Assist in the set-up, configuration, and documentation of hardware and software systems under ...

Chewy

Associate Director, Software Engineering

Boston, MA · On-site

$274K/yr

Lead and develop the Agent Assist, Workflow and Tooling teams, setting technical direction and ... Establish engineering best practices in system design, software development, testing, DevOps, and ...

Chewy

Associate Director, Software Engineering

Boston, MA

$275K/yr

Lead and develop the Agent Assist, Workflow and Tooling teams, setting technical direction and ... Establish engineering best practices in system design, software development, testing, DevOps, and ...

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Software Engineering Assistant information

See Cambridge, MA salary details

$14

$34

$62

How much do software engineering assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for software engineering assistant in Cambridge, MA is $34.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $41.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineering assistant?

Software Engineering Assistants are professionals who support software engineers and development teams by performing tasks such as writing and testing code, documenting software processes, troubleshooting issues, and assisting with project management. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers to help streamline workflows, maintain software applications, and ensure quality standards are met. This role is ideal for individuals starting their careers in software development, as it provides valuable hands-on experience and exposure to various aspects of the software engineering lifecycle.

What are the common responsibilities of a software engineering assistant?

Software Engineering Assistants typically handle tasks such as maintaining documentation, assisting with code reviews, writing and testing small code modules, and managing version control systems. They play a vital role in supporting senior engineers by streamlining workflows, troubleshooting minor issues, and ensuring that development processes run smoothly. This position often involves close collaboration with developers, QA testers, and sometimes project managers, providing valuable exposure to the entire software development lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineering assistant?

To thrive as a Software Engineering Assistant, you need a solid understanding of programming languages, software development fundamentals, and at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and issue tracking tools is typically expected. Strong communication, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn help individuals excel in supporting engineering teams. These skills ensure efficient collaboration, code quality, and adaptability in dynamic software projects.

What is the difference between Software Engineering Assistant vs Software Developer?

AspectSoftware Engineering AssistantSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires an associate degree or relevant certificationsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field
Work EnvironmentSupports engineering teams, often in office or lab settingsDesigns, codes, and tests software applications
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech companies, engineering firms, and IT departmentsCommonly employed across software companies, startups, and tech industries

The main difference is that a Software Engineering Assistant provides support to software engineers, focusing on tasks like testing and documentation, while a Software Developer actively designs and develops software applications. The Assistant role is often entry-level and supportive, whereas the Developer role involves more technical responsibilities and coding tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineering jobs in Cambridge, MA?

The most popular types of Software Engineering jobs in Cambridge, MA are:

Infographic showing various Software Engineering Assistant job openings in Cambridge, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,726 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Engineering Assistant

Lexington, MA • On-site

MIT Lincoln Laboratory
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about MIT Lincoln Laboratoryexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Description

This position is for a Drone Test Engineer responsible for the full life-cycle of testing research-oriented robots for the air, ground, and maritime domains. The Drone Test Engineer also shares responsibility for day-to-day operations of the Autonomous Systems Development Facility (ASDF), including support to engineering staff from across the organization in the development of autonomous system prototypes, from implementation through indoor and outdoor testing and field experimentation. Activities include building experimental UxS, integrating payloads and software, debugging and editing software as needed, transporting, flying UxS, and post-processing data from field tests. The role also has a significant footprint surrounding field test planning and getting appropriate test plans approved internally and externally.

Responsibilities
  • Operation of fixed-wing and multi-rotor UAVs in indoor and outdoor environments as part of experimental campaigns (FAA Part 107 required)
  • Hands-on development of robotic systems, including maintaining, configuring, and upgrading a diverse fleet of autonomous platforms
  • Planning, design, setup, and execution of indoor and outdoor experiments, including test safety, data collection, and post-processing
  • Design and development of specialized test fixtures, instrumentation, software, and electronic circuits as required to support experimentation
  • Maintain the overall functionality of the facility, including routine maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, safety compliance, and proposing future investments and capability expansions
  • Operate and maintain field-testing vans and SUVs, including hauling equipment via trailers and operating large vehicles (e.g., Sprinter 2500) in support of test activities

General knowledge of electronic and computer equipment, software systems, and experimental testing techniques is required. The successful candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple concurrent tasks with minimal supervision. This role requires strong interpersonal and leadership skills, including the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team, coordinate and delegate work, and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelors in Engineering or related field with minimum of 3 years of experience in a research or applied engineering environment
  • Experience writing, reviewing, and overseeing UAV flight test planning
  • In-depth knowledge of commercial and military autonomous vehicles (ground, maritime, and airborne) and experience maintaining, deploying, interfacing with and operating these systems in laboratory and field environments
  • Active drone pilot’s license (FAA Part 107)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
  • Flight training certificate such as AUVSI TOP Level 2 Fixed Wing course
  • Degree related to autonomous systems, robotics, controls, or artificial intelligence
  • Prior experience working directly with military end-users, or prior military service related to autonomous systems
  • Strong working knowledge of Linux operating systems and demonstrated proficiency in interfacing with and debugging C/C++, ROS, and Python
  • Proficiency with scripting and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB) and spreadsheets (e.g., Excel) for experimental data collection, along with configuration management and version control tools such as GitHub
  • Experience using, interfacing with, and modifying common robotics ground control (e.g., QGroundControl) and simulations environments (e.g., Gazebo, RealFlight)
  • Experience with 3D printing


Hiring Range: $100,600 - $136,200

Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including—but not limited to—the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate’s experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits.

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include: 

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
  • MIT-funded pension
  • Matching 401K
  • Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
  • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
  • Mentorship programs
  • A range of work-life balance options
  • ... and much more!  

Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks.

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.

Requisition ID: 43009 

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