Software Engineering Intern III, Summer 2026

Posted Yesterday
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Reston, VA, USA
Hybrid
50K-69K Annually
Internship
Aerospace • Hardware • Information Technology • Security • Software • Cybersecurity • Defense
Where purpose connects.
The Role
Contribute to design, coding, debugging, documentation, configuration, and testing of cross-domain defense software. Work in Linux/UNIX environments on mission-critical C/C++/Python projects, collaborate with engineers, and be mentored by senior staff while gaining exposure to tools, version control, GUIs, and networking protocols.
Summary Generated by Built In
Job Description
BAE Systems is a premier global defense and aerospace company employing thousands of talented people around the world. Our C4ISRS (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Systems) sector delivers mission-critical information and communication solutions to our customers, ensuring they have the advantage on the battlefield. We are committed to investing in the next generation of engineers and providing a challenging and rewarding internship experience. Interns at BAE Systems have the opportunity to make a real impact on national security while developing their skills and building their careers.
As a Software Engineering Intern, you will be immersed in a cross functional environment that blends systems engineering, hardware integration, and battlefield ready software development. You will have the opportunity to contribute to the entire software lifecycle: design, coding, debugging, documentation, configuration, and testing of cross domain solutions that must operate safely and reliably across multiple domains (air, land, sea, space, cyber). You'll be mentored by experienced engineers and will report to a senior Software Engineering Lead. You will be assigned various tasks ranging in complexity that can be technically challenging, yet achievable.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • Entering Junior or Senior level year (BS/BA) or MS/MA student.
  • Ability to obtain an active Secret clearance.
  • Strong understanding of fundamental programming concepts (data structures, algorithms, object-oriented programming).
  • Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., C, C++, or Python).
  • Exposure to software development tools (e.g., IDEs, version control systems like Git).
  • Exposure to UNIX / Linux based development environments
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong oral and written communications skills.
  • Ability to take initiative, multi-task and work well under pressure.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
  • Applicants with a current Secret security clearance.
  • Strong experience developing and debugging in a Linux environment.
  • Experience developing with C/C++, Java, Python.
  • Experience developing Graphical User Interfaces (GUI) using Qt.
  • Experience with version control systems, such as Subversion and GIT.
  • Experience developing web-based graphical user interfaces (GUI) and applications.
  • Knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, SSH, SFTP).

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $49592 - $68993
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Temporary employees generally are not eligible for BAE Systems benefits, but can elect to participate in the 401(k) savings plan. Temporary employees working 20+ hours per week are eligible for medical benefits, the employee assistance program, and business travel accident insurance.
About BAE Systems Electronic Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere - from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact - for our customers and the communities we serve.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Skills Required

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • Entering Junior or Senior level year (BS/BA) or MS/MA student.
  • Ability to obtain an active Secret clearance.
  • Strong understanding of fundamental programming concepts (data structures, algorithms, object-oriented programming).
  • Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., C, C++, or Python).
  • Exposure to software development tools (e.g., IDEs, version control systems like Git).
  • Exposure to UNIX / Linux based development environments.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong oral and written communications skills.
  • Ability to take initiative, multi-task and work well under pressure.
  • Applicants with a current Secret security clearance.
  • Strong experience developing and debugging in a Linux environment.
  • Experience developing with C/C++, Java, Python.
  • Experience developing Graphical User Interfaces (GUI) using Qt.
  • Experience with version control systems, such as Subversion and GIT.
  • Experience developing web-based graphical user interfaces (GUI) and applications.
  • Knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, SSH, SFTP).

What the Team is Saying

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BAE Systems, Inc. Compensation & Benefits Highlights

  • Healthcare Strength Benefits materials highlight multiple medical plan options with FSA/HSA eligibility, and a 2024 guide references company HSA contributions. Health coverage breadth is emphasized alongside additional wellbeing resources.
  • Retirement Support A 401(k) savings plan is available with employer contributions or match offered by some business units per plan supplements. Company‑paid basic life insurance at 2x base salary (up to $1M) provides added financial protection.
  • Parental & Family Support Paid parental leave can be used in addition to other leave programs, with adoption and surrogacy reimbursement available. Feedback suggests bonding leave is available for all parents with additional short‑term disability for birth recovery, though specifics vary by business unit and state.

BAE Systems, Inc. Insights

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The Company
HQ: Falls Church, VA
40,000 Employees
Year Founded: 1999

What We Do

Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do. As a leading aerospace, defense, and security company, we work together to deliver a full range of products and services for air, land, space, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. How we work is rooted in purpose – a purpose to protect those who protect us, to unite our community of colleagues and customers, and to drive forward the growth and development of our exceptional team members. It's where purpose connects.

Why Work With Us

We believe your career should be filled with innovation and discovery. And that's exactly what you'll find at BAE Systems. As you work to develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills and expand knowledge. On a sharp and collaborative team, you will be challenged – and supported – at every turn.

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BAE Systems, Inc. Teams

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Space & Mission Systems
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Electronic Systems
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Intelligence & Security
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Platforms & Services
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What It’s Like Working on BAE Systems’ AI-Powered Military Tech
About our Teams

BAE Systems, Inc. Offices

Hybrid Workspace

Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.

As the work place continues to evolve, so do we. Remote and hybrid opportunities are available at BAE Systems depending on the nature of the role. Check your job requisition to learn more.

Typical time on-site: Not Specified
Company Office Image
HQBAE Systems, Inc. headquarters
Annapolis Junction, MD
Company Office Image
Austin, TX
Boulder, CO
Company Office Image
Space & Mission Systems headquarters
Burlington, MA
Cedar Rapids, IA
Dallas, TX
Endicott, NY
Fort Wayne, IN
Greenlawn, NY
Huntsville, AL
Jacksonville, FL
Los Angeles, CA
Maple Grove, MN
Intelligence & Security headquarters
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Electronic Systems headquarters
Redmond, WA
San Diego, CA
San Jose, CA
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Sterling Heights, MI
Washington, DC
Wayne, NJ
Learn more

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