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Weapons System Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

The software engineer will also review and test software components for adherence to the design ... S. Navy Submarine and Surface Ship weapons system capability testing. Key Responsibilities:

Amentum

Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

The software engineer will also review and test software components for adherence to the design ... S. Navy Submarine and Surface Ship weapons system capability testing. Key Responsibilities:

JT4

Weapons System Integration Engineer

Edwards, CA · On-site

$110K - $185K/yr

JT4 is hiring Weapons System Integration Engineers to support operations at Edwards Air Force Base in California. JT4 seeks motivated and experienced Weapons System Integration Engineers to support ...

ASEC, Inc.

Weapons System Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The Weapons System Engineer will support the development, integration, and lifecycle management of air-to-air (A/A) weapons systems supporting U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Counter Air / Counter Air ...

ASEC

Weapons System Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · Hybrid

$110K - $130K/yr

The Weapons System Engineer will support the development, integration, and lifecycle management of air-to-air (A/A) weapons systems supporting U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Counter Air / Counter Air ...

Pae

Senior Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$117K - $154K/yr

The software engineer will also review and test software components for adherence to the design ... S. Navy Submarine and Surface Ship weapons system capability testing. Key Responsibilities:

Amentum

Senior Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$117K - $154K/yr

The software engineer will also review and test software components for adherence to the design ... S. Navy Submarine and Surface Ship weapons system capability testing. Key Responsibilities:

Amentum

Senior Software Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$117K - $154K/yr

The software engineer will also review and test software components for adherence to the design ... S. Navy Submarine and Surface Ship weapons system capability testing. Key Responsibilities:

Serco USA

Interface with weapons system contractors, vendors, and Government representatives on software engineering activities; independently apply software and engineering principles to investigate, analyze ...

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Weapons System Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do weapons system software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapons system software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a weapons system software engineer do?

A Weapons System Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software that controls and operates military weapons systems. This includes working on embedded systems, real-time operating environments, and ensuring the integration of hardware and software components for optimal system performance. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure that the software meets strict safety, security, and performance standards required for defense applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weapons system software engineer?

To thrive as a Weapons System Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, software engineering principles, and familiarity with defense systems, usually supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Proficiency in languages like C/C++, embedded systems, real-time operating systems, and tools such as MATLAB or Simulink is commonly required, along with certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP. Exceptional problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills are vital for effectively developing and maintaining mission-critical systems. These competencies are crucial to ensure the reliability, security, and effectiveness of complex defense technologies.

What are some common challenges weapons system software engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Weapons System Software Engineers often collaborate with hardware engineers, system integrators, and defense analysts, which can lead to challenges in aligning software requirements with hardware capabilities and security protocols. Clear communication is essential to ensure that software integrates seamlessly with physical components and meets stringent safety and compliance standards. Additionally, engineers must stay adaptable to rapidly changing project priorities and evolving military specifications. Being proactive in cross-team meetings and documentation helps mitigate misunderstandings and keeps projects on track.

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

AspectWeapons System Software EngineerSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; security clearances often requiredBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field; certifications like Java or AWS may be preferred
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, military projects, government agenciesTech companies, startups, corporate IT departments
Industry UsageMilitary, defense, aerospaceTechnology, finance, healthcare, various industries
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Weapons System Software Engineer and a Software Engineer lies in their work environment and industry focus. Weapons System Software Engineers typically work on defense and military projects requiring security clearances, while Software Engineers work across diverse industries like tech and finance. Both roles require strong programming skills and a background in computer science, but their applications and security requirements differ significantly.

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

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

Infographic showing various Weapons System Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Weapons System Engineer

Laurel, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
Are you enthusiastic about utilizing your analytical and technical skills to design and assess advanced weapon systems that support military warfare initiatives?
Are you a systems thinker with experience in systems engineering who is eager to make a significant impact on critical national defense programs?
Do you enjoy engaging with and enhancing intricate weapon systems?
If so, we believe this opportunity may be for you and we think you should apply to join our team at APL. We are seeking a highly motivated early career System Engineer for the development and evaluation of next generation solutions to our nation's premier precision strike system. We need creative and innovative thinkers that will push the boundaries through creativity, and collaboration across a team of engineers to develop enabling technologies for advanced weapon systems
As a Systems Engineer you will...
  • Perform systems level technical analysis, trade studies, and analysis of alternatives
  • Participate in engineering team meetings and overall technical development efforts
  • Support the government sponsor in systems engineering activities such as developing requirements, identifying trade studies, developing interface control documents, developing system architectures, and assessing risks
  • Develop formal communication through systems engineering documents, reports and present results to senior level government sponsors

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a B.S. degree in Operations Research/Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Physical Science or related field
  • Have 1+ years of professional experience related to weapon system development
  • Have experience in early concept development, performance analysis, systems integration, or requirements engineering activities for complex systems
  • Have experience developing and customizing system modeling using UML/SysML and associated software
  • Have strong interpersonal and verbal/written communication skills and ability to interact with sponsor representatives
  • Have experience in system engineering principles and practices
  • Are willing and able to travel periodically to Government and contractor sites within the continental U.S.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret 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 degree in Operations Research/Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Physical Science or related field
  • Have 5+ years of professional experience related to military strike system
  • Have direct experience applying aspects of MBSE in support of system development
  • Have knowledge of DoD Planning, Programming and Budgeting, Acquisition Process/Lifecycle, Research and Development
  • Have experience in weapon control systems, U.S. Navy surface combatants/submarines, Tomahawk or other strike warfare systems
  • Have familiarity with software virtualization and computing infrastructure
  • Have demonstrated ability to interface effectively with government sponsors
  • Can obtain Top Secret clearance or hold an active Top-Secret clearance or above

#LI-AG1
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
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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