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Weapons System Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weapons System Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท 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 ...

Weapons System Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท 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 ...

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Weapons System Software Engineer information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

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

As of Jun 7, 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 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 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, and why are they important?

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 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.

Infographic showing various Weapons System Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 12% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.
Weapons System Software Developer

Weapons System Software Developer

SimVentions, Inc

Dahlgren, VA โ€ข On-site

$92K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

SimVentions is a 100% employee-owned business and has consistently been voted one of Virginia's Best Places to Work. We are seeking an experienced Software Developer to provide engineering support in an Agile development environment for the Tomahawk program.ย  As part of a Scrum team, you will be performing software design, implementation, and test, documentation, and defect analysis. This is a journeyman level position requiring a minimum of 5 years of professional experience. Must be willing to work on-site at Dahlgren Naval Base 4+ days/week.


Very rare. Less than 10%.

An ACTIVE Secret Clearance is required for this position. Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. US Citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.


  • Minimum 5 years experience in a software development role
  • Experience using C++ and/or Java in a professional setting
  • Experience with object-oriented design and methodologies
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to thrive in a flexible, team-oriented work environment
  • Willingness to work on-site at Dahlgren Naval Base 5 days/week

  • Design, implement, and test source code for the Tactical Tomahawk Weapon Control System.
  • Debug reported issues and provide causal analysis.
  • Actively support all aspects of the system development lifecycle (analysis, requirements definition, design, coding, development and unit testing, maintenance and preparing associated documentation) with an emphasis on software development.

  • Strong Experience using C++ย 
  • Working knowledge of the Linux operating environment

A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from an accredited college or university in an engineering, scientific, or technical discipline is required. Computer Science or Computer Engineering degrees strongly preferred.

Compensation at SimVentions is determined by a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the candidateโ€™s experience, education, training, security clearance, work location, skills, knowledge, and competencies, as well as alignment with our corporate compensation plan and contract specific requirements.

The projected annual compensation range for this position is $92,000 - $135,000 (USD). This estimate reflects the standard salary range for this position and is just one component of the total compensation package that SimVentions offers.ย 


At SimVentions, weโ€™re committed to supporting the total well-being of our employees and their families. Our benefit offerings include comprehensive health and welfare plans to serve a variety of needs.ย 


We offer:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Competitive 401(k) programs
  • Retirement and Financial Counselors
  • Health Savings and Health Reimbursement Accounts
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life insurance, short- & long-term disability
  • Continuing Education Assistance
  • Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Paid Leave (e.g., Maternity, Paternity, Jury Duty, Bereavement, Military)
  • Third Party Employee Assistance Program that offers emotional and lifestyle well-being services, to include free counseling
  • Supplemental Benefit Programย 

SimVentions is about more than just being a place to work with other growth-orientated technically exceptional experts. Itโ€™s also a fun place to work. Our family-friendly atmosphere encourages our employee-owners to imagine, create, explore, discover, and do great things together.

Support Our Warfighters

SimVentions is a proud supporter of the U.S. military, and we take pride in our ability to provide relevant, game-changing solutions to our armed men and women around the world.

Drive Customer Success

We deliver innovative products and solutions that go beyond the expected. This means you can expect to work with a team that will allow you to grow, have a voice, and make an impact.
Get Involved in Giving Back

We believe a well-rounded company starts with well-rounded employees, which is why we offer diverse service opportunities for our team throughout the year.

Build Innovative Technology

SimVentions takes pride in its innovative and cutting-edge technology, so you can be sure that whatever project you work on, you will be having a direct impact on our customerโ€™s success.

Work with Brilliant People

We donโ€™t just hire the smartest people; we seek experienced, creative individuals who are passionate about their work and thrive in our unique culture.

Create Meaningful Solutions

We are trusted partners with our customers and are provided challenging and meaningful requirements to help them solve.

Employees who join SimVentions will enjoy additional perks like:

  • Employee Ownership:ย Work with the best and help build YOUR company!
  • Family focus:ย Work for a team that recognizes the importance of family time.
  • Culture:ย Add to our culture of technical excellence and collaboration.
  • Dress code:ย Business casual, we like to be comfortable while we work.
  • Resources:ย  Excellent facilities, tools, and training opportunities to grow in your field.
  • Open communication:ย Work in an environment where your voice matters.
  • Corporate Fellowship:ย  Opportunities to participate in company sports teams and employee-led interest groups for personal and professional development.
  • Employee Appreciation:ย Multiple corporate events throughout the year, including Holiday Events, Company Picnic, Imagineering Day, and more.
  • Founding Partner of the FredNats Baseball team:ย Equitable distribution of tickets for every home game to be enjoyed by our employee-owners and their families from our private suite.
  • Food:ย We have a lot of food around here!

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