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Aerospace Defense Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IDEX

Process Engineer - Aerospace & Defense

Farmington, CT · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

The Process Engineer, Aerospace & Defense will partner with project engineering, quality, supply chain, and manufacturing teams to industrialize new product builds from prototype through production.

IDEX

Process Engineer - Aerospace & Defense

Farmington, CT · On-site

$112K - $169K/yr

The Process Engineer, Aerospace & Defense will partner with project engineering, quality, supply chain, and manufacturing teams to industrialize new product builds from prototype through production.

Mistras

Project Manager, Aerospace & Defense

Cudahy, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Project Management, or a related technical field ... Experience with aerospace primes, defense contractors, or FAA-related work. * Familiarity with ...

General Motors

Defense Engineer

Milford, MI · On-site

At minimum, 2 years of engineering experience supporting defense, military, aerospace, or government programs. * Ability to analyze complex technical problems and develop innovative engineering ...

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Aerospace Defense Engineer information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do aerospace defense engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace defense engineer in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerospace defense engineer?

Aerospace Defense Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test systems and equipment used for national defense, such as missiles, aircraft, satellites, and related technology. They apply principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering to create solutions that meet the strict safety, reliability, and performance standards required in defense applications. These engineers often work with government agencies or defense contractors and may be involved in both research and practical implementation of aerospace defense technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace defense engineer?

To thrive as an Aerospace Defense Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, systems design, and defense technologies, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and security clearance. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB, and familiarity with military standards or certifications such as ITAR compliance are crucial. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you navigate complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the development of safe, innovative, and compliant defense systems that meet rigorous technical and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges aerospace defense engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Aerospace Defense Engineers often collaborate with professionals from various fields such as software, hardware, and systems engineering. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment of goals across disciplines, especially when integrating complex technologies under strict regulatory and security requirements. Navigating differing technical languages, project management styles, and timelines can require strong interpersonal and organizational skills. However, overcoming these challenges fosters innovative solutions and contributes to professional growth by exposing engineers to a broader range of expertise.

What is the difference between Aerospace Defense Engineer vs Aerospace Systems Engineer?

AspectAerospace Defense EngineerAerospace Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, often with security clearancesBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Systems Engineering, often with similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agencies, military projectsCommercial aerospace companies, government agencies, research labs
Industry UsagePrimarily in defense, military, and national security sectorsCommercial and military aerospace sectors
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles require strong engineering backgrounds and work on aerospace projects, Aerospace Defense Engineers focus on military and defense systems, often involving security clearances and defense-specific regulations. Aerospace Systems Engineers have a broader scope, working on both commercial and military aerospace systems, emphasizing system integration and performance across various platforms.

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Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Defense Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Aerospace, Space & Defense Engineer with Security Clearance

Mclean, VA • On-site

AFORGE LLC
See more jobs at AFORGE LLCexternal

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Aerospace, Space & Defense Engineer
Full Time
Greater Washington DC Area
$110,000-$220,000 Security Clearance: An active U.S. Secret or Top Secret security clearance is required. Some positions may require eligibility for SCI access or the ability to obtain additional customer-specific clearances.
Work Authorization: Applicants must be U.S. citizens and able to meet all customer security requirements. We are seeking Aerospace and Defense Engineers to support advanced space, aerospace, and defense programs for government customers.
Typical Responsibilities: Support design and integration of aerospace systems.
Develop engineering analyses and technical documentation.
Participate in testing and validation activities.
Perform systems analysis and mission planning.
Support program execution from concept through deployment. Desired Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related discipline.
Experience supporting DoD or Intelligence Community programs preferred.

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