Software Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia
Software Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia are in strong demand, with the market concentrated in defense, intelligence, federal IT, and aerospace sectors and openings ranging from entry-level associate engineers through senior systems architects. The heaviest hiring activity centers on Northern Virginia, the Hampton Roads metro, and the Richmond area, where anchors like Northrop Grumman, Leidos, and Booz Allen Hamilton maintain large engineering workforces. The most sought-after specialties in Virginia include systems integration, embedded systems development, and model-based systems engineering tied to Department of Defense programs. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 48+ Software Systems Engineer jobs
- 538496
- Arlington, Virginia, United States
- VTNSI
- Data Analytics / Security
- Research / Scientific
- Faculty (Salaried)
- Virginia Tech
Job Description
The Virginia Tech National Security Institute’s (VTNSI) Intelligent Systems Division (ISD) is seeking to fill an entry-level/junior-level software developer position and join our team at the forefront of research and development on artificial intelligence and systems engineering.
With a presence in both Blacksburg and Washington, D.C. metro areas, VTNSI serves dual missions of (1) performing cutting-edge research and development for externally sponsored Department of Defense and Intelligence Community programs and (2) cultivating the next generation of national security workforce and thought leaders by engaging students in curricular, extracurricular, and research and development opportunities. As one of the fastest growing thematic research institutes at Virginia Tech, sponsors and collaborators benefit from VTNSI through both highly experienced student talent pipelines and senior technical leadership that addresses some of our nation’s greatest national security challenges and threats.
VTNSI’s ISD is a leader in research and development in three core capabilities: 1) secure and resilient systems, 2) engineering AI systems, and 3) integrated data and decision systems.
To help achieve the overarching aspirations of VTNSI, and the specific technical goals of the ISD, we are looking for applicants with expertise in software development and an interest in working on team-based development projects. An interest in the development of AI-based systems is required while prior knowledge in the area is not. General activities of this position will consist of:
- Software development tasks across 2-3 programs primarily focused on artificial intelligence
- Learn about the underlying technical concepts of assigned programs (through both independent learning as well as through program mentors)
- Participation in weekly program meetings and periodic sponsor meetings (requiring oral and/or written updates)
- Thorough test, evaluation, and documentation of developed software
- (As desired) Opportunities to participate in research paper writing and business development proposal writing
In addition, Software Engineer II candidates will:
- Develop best practices and documenting NSI standards
- Provide technical guidance to junior developers and students on research project
Required Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related STEM discipline to the position summary.
- Strong communication skills.
- Proficiency in software development and familiarity with best coding practices in one or more of the following programming languages: C++, Python.
- Familiarity with Continuous Integration/Continuous Development (CI/CD) processes for code development, test and evaluation.
- Familiarity with version control tools (e.g., Git).
- Demonstrated ability and willingness to work as a member of a development team in executing sponsored projects.
- Given the nature of the research and requirements from federal sponsors, the candidate must be a U.S. citizen.
- Demonstrated ability and willingness to document and define test cases for developed software.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
- U.S. Security Clearance at the Secret level or higher.
- Familiarity with AI/ML development concepts such as RL, RAG, MCP, Agentic AI, multi-modal learning, etc.
- Familiarity with AI/ML development tools such as PyTorch, Keras, Tensorflow, LangChain, etc.
- Proficiency in developing web and/or non-web based graphical user interfaces (GUIs) utilizing frameworks such as React, Vue, Qt, etc.
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Starting at $90,000; commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40 hours per week
Review Date
November 20, 2026
Additional Information
Position is located in the Virginia Tech Research Center in Arlington, VA. Due to the nature of our work, the successful candidates must be US citizens with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Alex Tuuri at alext3@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
- 538496
- Arlington, Virginia, United States
- VTNSI
- Data Analytics / Security
- Research / Scientific
- Faculty (Salaried)
- Virginia Tech
Job Description
The Virginia Tech National Security Institute’s (VTNSI) Intelligent Systems Division (ISD) is seeking to fill an entry-level/junior-level software developer position and join our team at the forefront of research and development on artificial intelligence and systems engineering.
With a presence in both Blacksburg and Washington, D.C. metro areas, VTNSI serves dual missions of (1) performing cutting-edge research and development for externally sponsored Department of Defense and Intelligence Community programs and (2) cultivating the next generation of national security workforce and thought leaders by engaging students in curricular, extracurricular, and research and development opportunities. As one of the fastest growing thematic research institutes at Virginia Tech, sponsors and collaborators benefit from VTNSI through both highly experienced student talent pipelines and senior technical leadership that addresses some of our nation’s greatest national security challenges and threats.
VTNSI’s ISD is a leader in research and development in three core capabilities: 1) secure and resilient systems, 2) engineering AI systems, and 3) integrated data and decision systems.
To help achieve the overarching aspirations of VTNSI, and the specific technical goals of the ISD, we are looking for applicants with expertise in software development and an interest in working on team-based development projects. An interest in the development of AI-based systems is required while prior knowledge in the area is not. General activities of this position will consist of:
- Software development tasks across 2-3 programs primarily focused on artificial intelligence
- Learn about the underlying technical concepts of assigned programs (through both independent learning as well as through program mentors)
- Participation in weekly program meetings and periodic sponsor meetings (requiring oral and/or written updates)
- Thorough test, evaluation, and documentation of developed software
- (As desired) Opportunities to participate in research paper writing and business development proposal writing
In addition, Software Engineer II candidates will:
- Develop best practices and documenting NSI standards
- Provide technical guidance to junior developers and students on research project
Required Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related STEM discipline to the position summary.
- Strong communication skills.
- Proficiency in software development and familiarity with best coding practices in one or more of the following programming languages: C++, Python.
- Familiarity with Continuous Integration/Continuous Development (CI/CD) processes for code development, test and evaluation.
- Familiarity with version control tools (e.g., Git).
- Demonstrated ability and willingness to work as a member of a development team in executing sponsored projects.
- Given the nature of the research and requirements from federal sponsors, the candidate must be a U.S. citizen.
- Demonstrated ability and willingness to document and define test cases for developed software.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
- U.S. Security Clearance at the Secret level or higher.
- Familiarity with AI/ML development concepts such as RL, RAG, MCP, Agentic AI, multi-modal learning, etc.
- Familiarity with AI/ML development tools such as PyTorch, Keras, Tensorflow, LangChain, etc.
- Proficiency in developing web and/or non-web based graphical user interfaces (GUIs) utilizing frameworks such as React, Vue, Qt, etc.
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Starting at $90,000; commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40 hours per week
Review Date
November 20, 2026
Additional Information
Position is located in the Virginia Tech Research Center in Arlington, VA. Due to the nature of our work, the successful candidates must be US citizens with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Alex Tuuri at alext3@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
See All 48 Software Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia
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Find JobsSoftware Systems Engineer Jobs by City in Virginia
Where Virginia roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Software Systems Engineer Job Market in Virginia
A snapshot from current Virginia openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
What Virginia Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in software systems engineer jobs across Virginia.
- Bachelor's degree in systems engineering, computer science, or a closely related engineering discipline
- Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance, or eligibility to obtain one
- Proficiency with systems engineering lifecycle tools such as DOORS, CAMEO, or equivalent MBSE platforms
- Experience developing system requirements, architecture documents, and interface control documents
- Familiarity with DoD acquisition frameworks including MIL-STD-499 or the Defense Acquisition System
- Certifications such as INCOSE CSEP or CompTIA Security+ valued by Virginia defense and federal contractors
Software Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a software systems engineer in Virginia?
There is no state-issued license required to work as a software systems engineer in Virginia, but the hiring path is shaped by the defense and federal contracting environment. Most Virginia employers require a bachelor's degree in systems engineering, computer science, or electrical engineering, and a large share of roles require or strongly prefer candidates who hold or can obtain a DoD security clearance. Professional recognition through INCOSE certification strengthens candidacy considerably in this market.
How much do software systems engineers make in Virginia?
Software systems engineers in Virginia earn a median of about $136,460 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $83,350 for the lowest 10% to over $211,930 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire software systems engineers in Virginia?
Employers hiring software systems engineers in Virginia right now include Anduril, Booz Allen Hamilton, and SAIC, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Virginia's deep concentration of defense prime contractors and federal agencies makes it one of the most active states nationally for systems engineering talent.
Which Virginia cities have the most software systems engineer jobs?
Chantilly, Reston, and Arlington have the most software systems engineer openings in Virginia. Northern Virginia drives the largest share because of its proximity to the Pentagon, intelligence community campuses, and the headquarters of major defense contractors, while Hampton Roads openings are anchored by naval installation support work and aerospace programs based in that corridor.
Are there remote software systems engineer jobs in Virginia?
Yes, and more than many engineering disciplines, though the share depends heavily on clearance requirements and program restrictions. About 21% of software systems engineer openings tied to Virginia are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting a market where classified programs often require on-site presence. The tasks most commonly performed remotely include requirements documentation, architecture modeling, and systems analysis work that does not involve classified networks or hardware access.
How can I get hired as a software systems engineer in Virginia with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through a rotational or associate systems engineer program at a Virginia defense contractor or through a cleared internship that converts to full-time hire. Companies like Northrop Grumman, Leidos, and General Dynamics IT run structured new-graduate programs out of their Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads offices. Candidates from adjacent roles in software development, technical writing, or configuration management regularly move into systems engineering. Completing an INCOSE-recognized systems engineering course and initiating the security clearance process early are the credentials that move a resume to the top.
Where can I find and apply to software systems engineer jobs in Virginia?
You can find and apply to software systems engineer jobs in Virginia on Migrate Mate, which lists current Virginia openings across defense, federal IT, and commercial sectors. Find roles that match your clearance level, specialization, and target metro, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 48 Software Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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