CACI
Software Engineer
Location
Dahlgren, VA, 22448
Job Type
Other
Date Posted
27 November 2025
Software Engineer
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Continental US
The Opportunity: Located in King George, VA; within CACI's C5I work area, you will have the opportunity to support NSWCDD and the U.S. Navy and USMC programs.
Responsibilities:
- Coding / analyzing one or more of the following programming languages to include C++, C, Python, Batch and Java
- Understanding networking principles or familiar.
- Coding within a publish/subscribe architecture and middleware.
- Real time and non-real time operating systems such as UNIX, Linux, and VxWorks.
- Model drive architecture tools and languages.
- Assessing software complexity in quantitative terms and able to translate complexity to approximate time and cost to maintain.
- Defining and tracking software metrics.
- Assessing software changes for impacts relative to complexity and throughput.
- Developing and assessing software development plans, software requirements documents, software design documents, interface design documents and specifications associated with SIM/STIM test cases.
- DevSecOps processes and principles.
- Agile methodology and SAFE Agile principles.
- Experience and/or understanding of SCRUM Master principles or familiar.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or Technology.
- Ability to obtain and maintain, at minimum, a Secret Level Security Clearance. Active Secret Security Clearance is a plus.
- Junior Software Engineer - 0 to 2 years experience of combined general and specialized experience of the noted responsibilities
- Intermediate Software Engineer - 3 to 7 years experience of combined general and specialized experience of the noted responsibilities
- Junior Software Engineer - 7+ years experience of combined general and specialized experience of the noted responsibilities
Desired:
- Experience in C++, Java, and/or Python programming languages.
- Experience with Agile methodology and SAFE Agile principles.
- Active Secret level clearance.
- Experience with U.S. Navy, USMC, or similar Combat System
This position is contingent on funding and may not be filled immediately. However, this position is representative of positions within CACI that are consistently available. Individuals who apply may also be considered for other positions at CACI.
What You Can Expect: A culture of integrity. At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust. CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth. Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy. Your potential is limitless. So is ours. Learn more about CACI here.
Pay Range: There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits. Learn more here.
The proposed salary range for this position is: $76,000 - 155,700 USD
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dahlgren's tech scene is growing steadily but remains less saturated than major metro areas. Software engineers here often face moderate competition, with local demand particularly favoring candidates who demonstrate strong skills in software development and systems engineering tailored to defense and government contracts.
Certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or specialized government-related clearances are highly valued in Dahlgren due to the prevalence of defense contractors like CACI. These credentials can significantly boost a software engineer’s prospects in this region’s secure and compliance-driven environment.
Mastering languages like Python, Java, and C++ remains crucial for software engineers, especially those aiming at roles involving product development or systems engineering. Proficiency in these languages supports a broad array of software solutions and aligns with industry trends emphasizing scalable and maintainable code.
Entry-level Software Engineer I roles generally seek candidates with foundational programming knowledge and internship or project experience. Demonstrable skills in debugging, version control, and collaboration tools are key, as these positions focus on learning and contributing to ongoing software projects under guidance.
Starting as a graduate software engineer at CACI offers exposure to complex government projects, fostering rapid technical growth. Career progression often includes moving from development roles to product engineering or systems architecture, supported by mentorship and continuous learning opportunities within the company’s defense-focused ecosystem.
CACI emphasizes software solutions that comply with stringent security and operational standards. Software engineers there work closely with cross-disciplinary teams to develop mission-critical applications, requiring adaptability and a deep understanding of secure coding practices aligned with defense sector requirements.
Unlike typical commercial tech firms, CACI’s software engineers engage in projects supporting national security and defense. This focus demands familiarity with classified environments, adherence to strict protocols, and the ability to deliver robust, reliable software that meets government specifications.
Software engineers in Dahlgren generally earn between $85,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience and specialization. Government contractor roles like those at CACI may offer competitive benefits and security clearances that can enhance overall compensation packages beyond base salary.
Dahlgren offers a quieter lifestyle compared to urban centers, which can improve work-life balance for software engineers. While local amenities are more limited, the community-oriented environment and reduced commute times often contribute positively to personal well-being.
CACI software engineers typically engage in both product development and maintenance, with a strong emphasis on creating innovative software solutions tailored to defense applications. Roles often blend coding new features with ensuring mission-critical systems remain reliable and secure.
Employment opportunities at CACI
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