Software Systems Engineer Intern - JobID-0299

Innovative Defense Technologies, LLC; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

10–12 week program; up to 40 hours per

Competitive pay

Individual mentoring

Valuable training

Supportive culture

Team events

Job summary

Innovative Defense Technologies is seeking a Software Systems Engineer Intern for its Missile Defense team. This on-site internship is based in Arlington, VA, with potential locations in San Diego, CA or Mount Laurel, NJ, and requires the ability to obtain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance.

You will develop and test software, collaborate with teams, and contribute across the software lifecycle. Strong fundamentals in CS/SE, Linux, Git, SQL, and container tech are expected.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in undergrad or grad program in relevant field.
• Familiarity with Git or similar version control systems.
• Familiarity with Linux environments and command-line tools.
• Familiarity with SQL and PostgreSQL.
• Familiarity with container technologies such as Docker/Podman.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Mathematics, or Aeronautical Engineering

Tools

Git

Linux

SQL/PostgreSQL

Docker/Podman/OCI containers

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 Arlington, VA

Address 4401 Wilson Boulevard Suite 810, Arlington, Virginia, 22203

Open in Google Maps

Workplace type Onsite

Compensation $28.00 - $34.00 / hour

Key Responsibilities

What You Will Do:

• 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

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. 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

EEO Statement: 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.