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Airborne Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Senior Specialist, Systems Engineer

Waco, TX

$92K - $126K/yr

Develop system architectures that incorporate new mission equipment into SILs and airborne systems for military customer. * Define requirement traceability methods. * Perform systems engineering ...

L3HHCM20

Specialist, Systems Engineer

Waco, TX

Design and develop physical architectures incorporating mission system equipment into airborne ... Perform the systems engineering trade study process. * Evaluate trade studies for accuracy and ...

L3HHCM20

Lead, Systems Engineer

Waco, TX

Develop system architectures that incorporate new mission equipment into SILs and airborne systems for military customer. * Define requirement traceability methods. * Perform systems engineering ...

L3HHCM20

Lead, Systems Engineer

Waco, TX · On-site

Lead, Systems Engineer Job Code: 40935 Job Location: Waco, TX Job Schedule: 9/80 Reg Work as part ... Design and develop physical architectures incorporating mission system equipment into airborne ...

L3HHCM20

Senior Associate, Systems Engineer

Waco, TX · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Senior Associate, Systems Engineer Job Code: 41180 Job Location : Waco, TX Job Schedule: 9/80 ... Design and develop physical architectures incorporating mission system equipment into airborne ...

L3HHCM20

Senior Specialist Systems Engineer

Waco, TX · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Design and develop physical architectures incorporating mission system equipment into airborne ... Perform the systems engineering trade study process * Evaluate trade studies for accuracy and ...

Minuteman Group LLC

System Engineer

Lexington, KY · On-site

The Systems Engineering Group develops space, airborne, and terrestrial prototypes with innovative solutions to challenging national security problems. Our teams handle most of the large prototype ...

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Airborne Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do airborne systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for airborne systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an airborne systems engineer do?

An Airborne Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, integrating, and maintaining electronic and mechanical systems that operate on aircraft. This includes avionics, communication systems, radar, navigation, and other onboard technologies. They ensure that these systems meet safety and regulatory standards, work effectively in the airborne environment, and support the mission or commercial objectives of the aircraft. Airborne Systems Engineers often work closely with other engineering disciplines and may be involved in testing, troubleshooting, and certifying new technologies for flight.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airborne systems engineer?

To thrive as an Airborne Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, systems integration, and avionics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, CAD software, and certifications like FAA or EASA requirements are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you collaborate effectively and manage complex, multidisciplinary projects. These skills are vital to ensure safe, reliable airborne systems that meet rigorous industry and regulatory standards.

What are some of the main challenges airborne systems engineers face when integrating new technologies into existing aircraft platforms?

Airborne Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new technologies and legacy avionics systems, adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards, and managing the limitations of space and weight within aircraft. Integrating new systems also requires thorough testing and validation, often under tight project timelines. Effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, hardware engineers, and flight test crews—is essential to address these technical and logistical hurdles.

What is the difference between Airborne Systems Engineer vs Avionics Engineer?

AspectAirborne Systems EngineerAvionics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering; certifications like INCOSE or FAA-relatedBachelor's in electrical, electronics, or aerospace engineering; certifications in avionics systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test airborne systems in labs or on aircraftDesign and troubleshoot avionics systems within aircraft or labs
Industry UsageMilitary, commercial, and defense sectors focusing on integrated airborne systemsAircraft manufacturers, defense contractors, and aerospace companies

While both roles involve aerospace and aircraft systems, Airborne Systems Engineers focus on the overall integration of airborne systems, whereas Avionics Engineers specialize in electronic avionics systems. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and specific expertise.

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What job categories do people searching Airborne Systems Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Airborne Systems Engineer jobs are:

Airborne Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airborne Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Systems Engineer (Airborne Systems) with Security Clearance

22nd Century Technologies, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Senior Systems Engineer Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field, or equivalent experience. Equivalent experience is defined as additional directly relevant technical experience demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the role. • Minimum 8 years of experience supporting systems engineering activities for DOW or mission-critical systems, including complex airborne platform-based systems. • Experience supporting airborne, communications, shore-based, SATCOM, or mission critical systems environments. • Experience in system design, integration, installation, testing, certification, or fielding activities. • Experience with requirements development, verification, and validation. • Experience supporting installation, certification, operational test activities, system testing, verification, or operational test events (e.g., SOVT or similar). • Experience developing or supporting technical documentation and certification artifacts. • Experience working within Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) or cross functional/collaborative engineering environments. Desired:
• Experience with supporting E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, Airborne Networking GIG Interface (ANGI), or similar experience with DOW airborne platforms, communications systems, networking environments, or mission systems. • Extensive experience (e.g., 10+ years) supporting complex DOW technical programs. • Experience supporting airborne communications systems, SATCOM-based communication systems, or SATCOM-based architectures. • Experience with secure communications systems or classified environments.
• Experience supporting system installation planning activities, such as site surveys, integration plans, deployment briefs, or similar deployment activities. • Experience supporting readiness certifications, technical review boards, operational verification efforts, or similar activities (e.g., SOVT, FRCB, or equivalent). • Experience troubleshooting and resolving system integration issues in operational environments. • Experience serving in technical leadership, mentoring junior engineers, or supporting project management/project coordination activities. • Experience coordinating across multi-service, joint, or cross-functional stakeholders.

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