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Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance information

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$24K

$104.9K

$189K

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

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee software engineer secret clearance in the United States is $104,863.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Trainee Software Engineer with Secret Clearance?

A Trainee Software Engineer with Secret Clearance is an entry-level software developer who is authorized to access classified government information at the Secret level. These positions are often found in defense, government, or contractor organizations where handling sensitive data is required. The role involves learning and assisting in software development tasks while adhering to strict security protocols. Secret Clearance indicates that the individual has passed a thorough background check and is trusted to protect national security information.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee Software Engineers working on projects that require Secret Clearance?

Trainee Software Engineers with Secret Clearance often face the challenge of adapting to strict security protocols and limited access to information, which can affect how they collaborate with team members. They may also encounter a steep learning curve when working with specialized systems or legacy code unique to government or defense projects. Additionally, balancing the demands of technical skill development with compliance to security procedures can be demanding, but it offers valuable experience in secure software development environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Software Engineer with Secret Clearance, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Software Engineer with Secret Clearance, you need a solid grasp of programming concepts, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field, along with eligibility for a U.S. government security clearance. Familiarity with languages like Java, Python, or C++, as well as experience using version control systems (e.g., Git) and development environments, is typical, and knowledge of secure coding practices is a plus. Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to detail help you collaborate on sensitive projects and adapt to dynamic environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining security standards, contributing effectively to technical projects, and operating in a trusted government or defense setting.

What is the difference between Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance vs Junior Software Developer?

AspectTrainee Software Engineer Secret ClearanceJunior Software Developer
CredentialsMay require security clearance, basic coding skills, and trainingTypically requires a degree in computer science or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment or defense contractor settings with security protocolsPrivate sector, tech companies, or startups
Employer & IndustryPrimarily government agencies and defense contractorsTech firms, software companies, and startups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding security clearance requirements and training rolesEntry-level coding roles and career progression

The Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance typically involves working in secure government environments with security clearance requirements, focusing on training and entry-level tasks. In contrast, a Junior Software Developer usually works in private sector companies, requiring a relevant degree and coding skills. Both roles serve as entry points but differ mainly in security clearance and work setting.

More about Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? Cities with the most Trainee 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 Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Software Engineer Secret Clearance jobs are:
Software Engineer, C++ - Top Secret Clearance

Software Engineer, C++ - Top Secret Clearance

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

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 insoftware 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.


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