Job Details

Software Engineer

This Software Engineer role supports the Machinery Control Systems (MCS) branch for U.S. Navy LHA and LHD class ships. You will work on mission-critical, custom software used to monitor and control shipboard machinery and systems. The software is highly specialized and non-commercial, and you will receive comprehensive training on the system upon joining. This position is well suited for early-career to mid-level engineers seeking long-term stability, exposure to defense programs, and hands-on work with real operational systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and maintain machinery control software for Navy shipboard systems.
• Perform bug fixes, software enhancements, and system updates using tools such as Jira and Confluence.
• Support integration of software with shipboard hardware and I/O points, including sensors, valves, and controllers.
• Work with programmable control systems in VME or PLC-type environments.
• Participate in software testing, validation, and troubleshooting activities to ensure reliable system performance.
• Support occasional shipboard testing and software installations on operational vessels.
• Collaborate closely with Navy engineers, technical leads, and program managers to clarify requirements and deliver solutions.
• Ensure cybersecurity considerations are incorporated throughout the software development lifecycle.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 25 years of professional software development experience.
• Experience with C# or comparable high-level programming languages.
• Ability to obtain an Interim DoD Secret Clearance or currently hold a DoD Secret Clearance.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex systems and issues.
• Willingness to learn and work with proprietary, highly specialized control systems.
• Comfort working in a secure, regulated environment with formal processes and documentation.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Familiarity with real-time or control-oriented software environments.
• Experience working in Windows and/or Linux operating system environments.
• Understanding of basic networking concepts and communication protocols.
• Experience with PLC-style systems or industrial control systems.
• Exposure to MATLAB or scripting languages for analysis, automation, or tooling.
• CompTIA Security+ certification or willingness to obtain this certification.
• Exposure to shipboard, industrial, or defense systems and environments.

Work Environment

You will work in a secure, regulated engineering environment focused on mission-critical software for naval machinery control systems. The role involves a mix of office-based software development and occasional on-site shipboard testing and installations. You will use tools such as Jira and Confluence for tracking work and documentation, and you will develop and support software running in Windows and/or Linux environments, often interfacing with VME or PLC-style control hardware and shipboard I/O devices. The position offers long-term stability, exposure to defense programs, and the opportunity to see your software operate on real ships in operational settings.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Philadelphia, PA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $46.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Philadelphia, PA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 12, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APACwith four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.