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Software Quality Engineer Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Manages all Quality Engineering functions for assigned program(s) or area(s) with some guidance ... Must have excellent computer skills (Power-Point, Excel and statistical software tools). What YOU ...

As the Lead Quality Engineer, you will have responsibility of all Bonding Quality functions for a ... Must have excellent computer skills (Power-Point, Excel and statistical software tools). What YOU ...

Senior Software Engineer

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Continuously work to improve software quality Qualifications Must have: * B.S. in Computer Science, MIS, Software or Electrical Engineering or related discipline * Minimum of 7 years of demonstrated ...

Senior Software Engineer

Hanover, MD

$120K - $159K/yr

Build high-quality, reliable, and maintainable applications that support mission systems and operational capabilities. * Develop, modify, and maintain software programming applications and system ...

James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland catalyzes high- quality research ... Strong experience in software quality assurance with 3+ years professional experience b. Expertise ...

Showing results 41-60

Software Quality Engineer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$18

$48

$78

How much do software quality engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for software quality engineer in Baltimore, MD is $48.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.98 and $55.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software quality engineer?

Software Quality Engineers are professionals responsible for ensuring that software products meet established quality standards before they are released to customers. They design and execute tests, identify bugs or issues, and collaborate with developers to resolve problems. Their work helps prevent defects, enhances user satisfaction, and ensures the reliability and safety of software applications. Software Quality Engineers may use automation tools and manual testing methods to validate functionality, performance, and security.

How does a software quality engineer typically collaborate with development and product teams to ensure high-quality releases?

As a Software Quality Engineer, you’ll work closely with developers and product managers throughout the software development lifecycle. Regular collaboration involves participating in sprint planning, reviewing requirements, designing test cases, and providing feedback on user stories. You’ll also be responsible for communicating defects clearly, suggesting improvements, and validating fixes, ensuring everyone is aligned on quality goals. This close teamwork ensures that issues are caught early and that the final product meets both technical and user expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software quality engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Quality Engineer, you need a solid understanding of software development lifecycles, test methodologies, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with automated testing tools (like Selenium or JUnit), bug tracking systems (such as Jira), and scripting languages is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong communication are vital soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure software products meet high standards for reliability and functionality, reducing defects and improving user satisfaction.

What is the difference between Software Quality Engineer vs Software Tester?

AspectSoftware Quality EngineerSoftware Tester
Primary FocusEnsuring overall quality, process improvement, and defect preventionIdentifying bugs and verifying software functionality
ResponsibilitiesDeveloping quality strategies, automating tests, collaborating with teamsExecuting test cases, reporting bugs, manual testing
Required SkillsTesting tools, automation, quality assurance processesManual testing, test case execution, defect tracking
Work EnvironmentCollaborative, cross-functional teams in software developmentPrimarily testing teams or QA departments

While both roles focus on software quality, Software Quality Engineers take a broader approach, emphasizing process improvement and automation, whereas Software Testers mainly focus on executing tests and identifying bugs. The roles often overlap but serve different stages of the quality assurance process.

More about Software Quality Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Quality Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD?

The most popular types of Software Quality Engineer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

Infographic showing various Software Quality Engineer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,327 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Principal Quality Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corp. (AU)

Elkridge, MD • On-site

$98.90 - $148.30/hr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No

CLEARANCE TYPE: None

TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time

Description

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

At the heart of Defining Possible is our commitment to missions. In rapidly changing global security environments, Northrop Grumman brings informed insights and software-secure technology to enable strategic planning. We are looking for innovators who can help us keep building on our wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies that fuel those missions. By joining in our shared mission, we ’II support yours of expanding your personal network and developing skills, whether you are new to the field, or an industry thought leader. At Northrop Grumman, you ’II have the resources, support, and team to do some of the best work of your career.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) is currently seeking a Principal Quality Engineer to join our team in Elkridge, MD at our Troy Hill facility.

What You'll Get To Do:

  • Develop, modify, apply and maintain quality evaluation and control systems and protocols for processing materials into partially finished or finished materials product.

  • Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing functions to ensure quality standards are in place.

  • Devise and implement methods and procedures for inspecting, testing and evaluating the precision and accuracy of products and production equipment.

  • Has primary cell but able to float to other cells to assist in problem solving

  • Compiles matrices for State-Of-Cell.

  • Implements and audits Principles and Operating Practices to fit quality objectives and quality scope.

  • Leads the resolution of quality requirements nonconformances or repairs.

  • Present Program Risks and Opportunities within the Cell.

  • Leads Cell Audits.

  • PCAB Coordinator.

  • In depth level understanding of workflow/processes.

  • Design and analyze inspection and testing processes, mechanisms and equipment; conducting quality assurance tests; and performing statistical analysis to assess the cost of and determine the responsibility for, products or materials that do not meet required standards and specifications.

  • Audit quality systems for deficiency identification and correction.

  • Initiate Corrective Action Plans and work with suppliers, manufacturing, and engineering personnel to identify the root cause and ensure robust corrective actions are implemented.

  • Ensure that corrective measures meet acceptable reliability standards, and that documentation is compliant with requirements.

  • Work from engineering drawings, diagrams, customer specifications, inspection instructions, documentation (manufacturing procedures) and checklists to ensure items meet required specifications and quality standards

  • Lead and implement Continuous Improvements to reduce nonconformances.

  • May specialize in the areas of design, mechanical engineering, incoming material, production control, product evaluation and reliability, inventory control and/or research and development as they apply to product or process quality.

  • May be certified in lean and six-sigma quality engineering methodologies.

Basic Qualifications for a Principal Quality Engineer:

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) field with a minimum of 5 years experience in Quality Assurance, or investigating failures and identifying root causes or in Manufacturing, Process, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering field of work performing technical job functions; OR a minimum of 3 years experience in Quality Assurance, or investigating failures and identifying root causes or in Manufacturing, Process, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering field of work performing technical job functions with a Masters Degree in a STEM field OR a minimum of 1 year experience in Quality Assurance, or investigating failures and identifying root causes or in Manufacturing, Process, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering field of work performing technical job functions with a PhD Degree in a STEM field

  • Experience with Data Analytics and Statistical Analysis methods and techniques

  • Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop staff

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S.Government Secret Clearance

  • US Citizenship required

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Space hardware experience

  • Experience in at least one of the following standards (IPC, J-Std, MIL-STD)

  • Experience with ISO9001 or AS9100 Quality Management System and AS9102 First Article Inspections (FAI).

  • Green/Black Belt Certified in Lean Six-sigma.

  • Certified in Lean and Six-Sigma methodologies

  • Certified auditor

  • Experience Facilitating RCCAs with technical groups

  • SAP Experience

  • Tableau Experience

  • Experience leading cross-functional teams to resolve problems or issues.

  • Experience using Microsoft Excel, Minitab or equivalent tools for statistical analysis.

  • Knowledge of modern skillsets such as Artificial Intelligence, SQL, Power Bi to aid in data analysis and data visualization

Primary Level Salary Range: $98,900.00 - $148,300.00

The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Job Category: Engineering

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939