Software Systems Engineer Intern

Innovative Defense Technologies, LLC; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is seeking a Software Systems Engineer Intern to join our Missile Defense team and work on-site in San Diego, CA. The internship requires the ability to obtain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance and may also support locations in Arlington, VA or Mount Laurel, NJ.

Compensation ranges from $28 to $34 per hour and involves collaboration with cross-functional teams. Responsibilities include developing, testing, and maintaining software applications, integrating

Qualifications

• Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program in software engineering, CS, CE, electrical engineering, data science, cyber security, math, or aeronautical engineering.
• Familiar with Git or similar version control systems.
• Experience with Linux-based environments and command-line tools.
• Familiar with SQL and relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL).
• Familiar with container technologies such as Docker, Podman, or OCI containers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and maintain software applications and features.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement capabilities and fix defects.
• Write reliable, maintainable code per engineering, security, and quality standards.
• Participate in code reviews, troubleshooting, and debugging.
• Integrate software components, APIs, and third-party tech into existing systems.
• Support software deployment, maintenance, and modernization efforts.
• Create and maintain technical documentation and development artifacts.
• Contribute throughout the software development lifecycle from requirements to deployment.

Skills

Git

Linux

SQL

Container tech

Education

Undergraduate/Graduate degree in software/engineering

Tools

Docker

Podman

OCI containers

CI/CD tooling

Job description

About The Role:

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking a Software Systems Engineer Intern to be part of our Missile Defense team and based out of our San Diego, CA, Arlington, VA, or Mount Laurel, NJ locations.

Leveraging advanced software automation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI-driven capabilities, IDT accelerates capability development, enhances operational readiness, and reduces lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense. The company is dedicated to transforming defense systems through innovation, efficiency, and mission-critical results.

Clearance & Location Requirements:

• All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
• This is a fully on-site position based out of our San Diego, CA, Arlington, VA, or Mount Laurel, NJ, locations.

• Department: Engineering
• Employment Type: Internship
• Location: San Diego, CA
• Address: 2750 Womble Road, San Diego, Suite 200, California, 92106
• Open in Google Maps
• Workplace type: Onsite
• Compensation: $28.00 - $34.00 / hour

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, test, and maintain software applications and features.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new capabilities and resolve software defects.
• Write reliable, maintainable code in accordance with engineering, security, and quality standards.
• Participate in code reviews, troubleshooting, and debugging activities.
• Integrate software components, APIs, and third-party technologies into existing systems.
• Support software deployment, maintenance, and modernization efforts.
• Create and maintain technical documentation and development artifacts.
• Contribute throughout the software development lifecycle, from requirements analysis through deployment and sustainment.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Who You Are (Required)

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree program with a major in software engineering, computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, data science, cyber security, mathematics, or aeronautical engineering
• Familiarity with Git or similar version control systems.
• Familiarity with Linux-based environments and command-line tools.
• Familiarity with SQL and relational database technologies (e.g., PostgreSQL).
• Familiarity with container technologies such as Docker, Podman, or OCI-compliant containers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

What Makes You Stand Out

• Experience writing scripts for automation using languages such as Python, Bash, PowerShell, or Groovy.
• Experience maintaining, troubleshooting, or upgrading software applications and services.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and modern software development practices.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps concepts and secure software development principles.
• Experience working in Agile development environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document technical work and communicate project status effectively.
• Demonstrated initiative, willingness to learn new technologies, and ability to take ownership of assigned tasks.

Pay Range*: $28 - $34 / Hour

*Pursuant to California Senate Bill 1162 and New Jersey Senate Bill 2310, IDT is required to disclose the "pay scale" or "pay range" associated with a job posting. Notably, however, this amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate's experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. Click here for additional information about California Senate Bill 1162. Click here for additional information about New Jersey Senate Bill 2310. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.

Job Benefits

IDT's Summer Internship Program offers students the opportunity to learn from experts and perform meaningful work in a professional work environment. IDT interns gain valuable, hands-on experience and solve real-world problems. In this program, students can expect:

• A 10-12-week program; up to 40 hours per week
• Competitive pay
• Individual mentoring
• Valuable training
• A supportive culture
• Social events and team building activities

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.

About Innovative Defense Technologies

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is a leading defense technology company focused on rapidly delivering mission-critical software and systems solutions to the U.S. government. The company specializes in automation, digital engineering, and enabling the rapid integration of advanced capabilities into complex weapon and combat systems. These essential solutions empower the warfighter to field, operate, and sustain decisive capability at speed and scale.

At IDT, our employees are developing advanced mission-critical outcomes by consistently delivering high-quality results, fostering innovation, applying rigorous problem-solving, and effectively collaborating across multifaceted teams and stakeholders. Grounded in these competencies, IDT translates complex customer priorities into robust software solutions.