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System Software Engineer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Red Key Solutions Llc

Software Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

Based in a DevOps framework, this role participates in and/or directs major deliverables of ... Develops and directs software system validation and testing methods using Junit and Katalon and ...

Red Key Solutions Llc

Software Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

Based in a DevOps framework, this role participates in and/or directs major deliverables of ... Develops and directs software system validation and testing methods using Junit and Katalon and ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

Bethesda, MD

$87K - $157K/yr

Develops software system validation and testing methods using Junit and Katalon and uses integrated ... DevOps tools like GitHub, Jenkins, Unix bash scripting and leveraging tools such as JIRA and ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Develops software system validation and testing methods using Junit and Katalon and uses integrated ... DevOps tools like GitHub, Jenkins, Unix bash scripting and leveraging tools such as JIRA and ...

Red Key Solutions Llc

Software Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$225K - $325K/yr

Based in a DevOps framework, this role participates in and/or directs major deliverables of ... Develops and directs software system validation and testing methods using Junit and Katalon and ...

Maxtena Inc

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for product design, development, and ... Design, develop, code, test and debug system software * Integrate and validate new product designs

iNovex Information Systems

Software Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$110K - $258K/yr

Provides specific input to the software components of system design to include hardware/software ... The Level 1 Software Engineer shall possess the following capabilities: * Analyze user requirements ...

Ametek

Principal Software Engineer

Germantown, MD

$137K - $184K/yr

You will partner with hardware, systems, clinical, quality, regulatory, and product teams to ... Mentor software engineers and promote clear standards for design, documentation, testing, and code ...

Maxtena Inc

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD

$133K - $175K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for product design, development, and ... Design, develop, code, test and debug system software * Integrate and validate new product designs

M&J Engineering

Software Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

... systems. Candidates will work on designing, developing, and maintaining software applications ... engineering and operations teams to provide technical support and implement software solutions.

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsSystem Software Engineer JobsSystem Software Engineer Jobs in Maryland

System Software Engineer information

See Maryland salary details

$80.6K

$172.5K

$199.9K

How much do system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for system software engineer in Maryland is $172,484.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $167,900.00 and $199,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a system software engineer do?

A System Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains the core software that enables computer hardware and system applications to function. This includes operating systems, device drivers, firmware, and other low-level software that interacts closely with hardware components. Their work ensures that systems run efficiently, securely, and reliably. They often collaborate with hardware engineers and application developers to optimize performance and troubleshoot complex technical issues.

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

To thrive as a System Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages like C, C++, or Rust, a deep understanding of operating systems, and typically a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with low-level debugging tools, version control systems (such as Git), and kernel development environments is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, high-performance system software that underpins critical applications and infrastructure.

What are some common challenges system software engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

System Software Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as maintaining system stability while integrating new features, ensuring compatibility across diverse hardware platforms, and optimizing performance under heavy workloads. Coordinating with cross-functional teams, such as hardware engineers and application developers, is essential to address these complexities. Additionally, they must stay updated with evolving technologies and adhere to rigorous testing and debugging practices to prevent system failures.

What is the difference between System Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectSystem Software EngineerSoftware Developer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; often some experience with systems programmingBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; focus on application development
Work EnvironmentDesigning and maintaining operating systems, firmware, or system-level applicationsCreating user-facing applications, websites, or mobile apps
Industry UsageTech companies, hardware firms, embedded systemsSoftware firms, startups, enterprise applications
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to system-level programmingLooking for application or web development roles

System Software Engineers focus on developing and maintaining system-level software like operating systems and firmware, requiring knowledge of hardware and low-level programming. Software Developers typically create applications and user-facing software, emphasizing higher-level programming skills. Both roles often share similar educational backgrounds but differ in their work focus and environment.

What are popular job titles related to System Software Engineer jobs in Maryland?

For System Software Engineer jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching System Software Engineer jobs in Maryland look for?

The top searched job categories for System Software Engineer jobs in Maryland are:

What are popular job titles related to System Software Engineer jobs in MD?

For System Software Engineer jobs in MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

System Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Software Engineer job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $172,484 per year, or $82.9 per hour.

Strategic Systems Software Engineer

Laurel, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

$171K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Description
Are you motivated by directly contributing to our nation's strategic deterrence capabilities by solving complex technical challenges at scale?
Do you enjoy building software and designing streamlined workflows that enable small teams to accomplish large-scale mission impact?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We're looking for engineers who see opportunities where others see constraints-people who leverage automation, AI-assisted development tools, DevSecOps, and modern software architectures to accelerate delivery, improve quality, and enable our team to support more programs with greater efficiency. The Software Engineering and Data Transformation Group (KBE), within the Strategic Deterrence Mission Area of the Force Projection Sector, supports the data architecture, collection, processing, and distribution required to evaluate Strategic Weapon Systems. Our team works across the full software engineering lifecycle in complex security and operational environments, partnering with a variety of sponsors. We value collaboration, accountability, and the thoughtful adoption of emerging technologies.
As a Strategic Systems Software Engineer...
  • You will identify opportunities to streamline engineering workflows and improve software quality through automation, analytics, and emerging software development technologies.
  • You will promote DevSecOps practices through integration of security, testing, and compliance practices throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • You will prepare and execute software deployments, both at APL and with customers at installation sites, ensuring successful and high-quality results.
  • You will work closely with other developers, system engineers, technical leads, end users (data processors and analysts), and our government sponsors to understand the system needs and develop solutions to meet them.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or another technical field; or equivalent years of relevant professional experience.
  • Have 5+ years of relevant experience developing in programming languages such as C#, Python, JavaScript, C++, and/or Java.
  • Have experience in using modern software development and project management tools (e.g. GitLab, Jira, VS Code).
  • Have experience with design and integration of software with relational databases and/or NoSQL databases.
  • Thrive in a collaborative team environment while taking ownership of your work. and contributing your unique expertise to achieve mission success.
  • Possess strong debugging, investigative, and written and verbal communication skills.
  • Are interested in leading software development efforts and providing technical mentorship.
  • Stay current with emerging software engineering technologies, tools, and methodologies, and identify opportunities to apply them to improve mission outcomes, software quality, and development efficiency.
  • Have experience implementing DevSecOps practices, including automated security scanning, vulnerability management, and software supply chain security.
  • Have experience with containerization (e.g., Docker, Podman) and orchestration technologies (e.g., Kubernetes).
  • Have hands-on experience leveraging AI-assisted coding tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, Claude Code, or similar technologies) to improve development efficiency, code quality, testing, or documentation generation.
  • Are willing and able to travel within the US (not likely to exceed a few trips per year with no more than five days in duration for each).
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Final Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a Master's or higher degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or another field with relevant professional experience.
  • Have led software development teams and provided mentorship to technical staff.
  • Have front-end and back-end web development experience.
  • Have experience with infrastructure as code, e.g., Ansible or Terraform.
  • Have experience developing software using Microsoft technologies (e.g., ASP.NET Core, Entity Framework Core, SQL Server).
  • Have developed multi-tier software architectures capable of operating at different scales and security classification levels.
  • Hold an active Secret security clearance, or higher.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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