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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 Jun 18, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerospace Defense Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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.

What are Aerospace Defense Engineers?

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 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.
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What cities are hiring for Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Aerospace Defense Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs are:
Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Defense Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
PROGRAM MANAGER (Aerospace & Defense)

PROGRAM MANAGER (Aerospace & Defense)

Marvin Group

Inglewood, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

The Marvin Group is a Strategic Partner for Global Alternate Mission Equipment and Sustainment
The Marvin Group, a leading defense contractor, plays a crucial role in the development and manufacturing of various systems for military aerospace and vehicles. Based in Southern California near the Los Angeles International Airport, The Marvin Group consists of Marvin Engineering (MEC), Marvin Test Solutions (MTS) and Marvin Land Systems (MLS).  Marvin Engineering designs and produces military Alternate Mission Equipment.  Marvin Test Solutions designs and manufactures armament Test Equipment. Marvin Land Systems specializes in the design and build of power and thermal management systems. For over 60 years we have maintained "A Tradition of Excellence", serving as a trusted source for our unwavering commitment to supporting all branches of the Department of Defense and our global allies. Our collaboration extends across a diverse array of programs and platforms, including major military prime contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon.

SUMMARY

Marvin Engineering Company (MEC), a long-standing defense contractor supporting all branches of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied nations, is seeking an experienced Program Manager. For more than 60 years, MEC has partnered with major prime contractors including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Boeing, SAAB, and KAI on a wide range of aerospace and defense platforms. This position is based is 100% onsite. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Manage all aspects of assigned contracts, including budget oversight, reporting, and adherence to product line responsibilities. Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM) is preferred.
  • Review contracts, purchase orders, and contract amendments.
  • Participate in proposal and quoting activities, including pricing and lead-time assessments.
  • Collaborate across functional groups-sales development, contracts, supply chain, production planning, operations, machining, quality, and engineering-to ensure on-time product delivery.
  • Build and maintain productive relationships with internal teams and external customers.
  • Prepare and present program updates and financial metrics for executive, PMO, and customer reviews.
  • Travel to customer sites, trade shows, or conferences as required.
  • Execute all duties in compliance with MEC policies and procedures.


SKILLS / REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline, and 5+ years of directly applicable experience; or 10+ years of relevant industry experience and/or military background in aviation, ground-based defense, or weapon systems, in lieu of a degree. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required, along with the ability to meet federal government access requirements for controlled unclassified information.
  • Experience in the military, defense, or aerospace fields-particularly involving U.S. fighter, bomber, or helicopter platforms, or defense weapon systems-is highly desirable.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and integrate strategies, goals, and objectives; experience coordinating cross-functional programs and resources.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical manuals.
  • SAP experience highly desired; proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Project, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) required.
  • Professional certifications (e.g., Supply Chain Management, Project Management, Program Management, Purchasing Management, Production & Inventory Control) are preferred but not required.
  • Ability to multitask and work effectively in a fast-paced environment managing multiple programs.
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak English.
  • Must meet ITAR requirements as a "U.S. person" (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, political asylee, or refugee).

This position must meet export control compliance requirements. All applicants must be "U.S. persons" within the meaning of ITAR, as defined: a U.S. Citizen, a lawful permanent resident, political asylee, or refugee.
Interested parties please apply online and submit resume to https://jobs.marvingroup.com/
Visit us at https://http://marvingroup.com/
The Marvin Group is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets Employer.
Our company uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.
If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact People & Culture at 310.674.5030.

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