Ballistic Protection Engineer information
See salary details
$56.9K - $65.9K
4% of jobs
$65.9K - $74.8K
7% of jobs
$74.8K - $83.8K
6% of jobs
$84.5K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$83.8K - $92.7K
6% of jobs
The median wage is $100.8K / yr.
$92.7K - $101.7K
21% of jobs
$101.7K - $110.6K
4% of jobs
$116.4K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$110.6K - $119.6K
29% of jobs
$119.6K - $128.5K
2% of jobs
$128.5K - $137.5K
13% of jobs
How much do ballistic protection engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for ballistic protection engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
A Ballistic Protection Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and improving materials and systems that protect people or equipment from ballistic threats such as bullets, shrapnel, or explosive fragments. They work on developing armor for vehicles, personal protective equipment like body armor, and protective structures. Their role involves analyzing threats, selecting appropriate materials, and ensuring products meet safety standards through rigorous testing and simulation. These engineers often collaborate with military, law enforcement, and defense contractors to create effective and innovative protective solutions.
To thrive as a Ballistic Protection Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, mechanical engineering, and physics, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and knowledge of ballistic testing standards and certifications is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and convey complex solutions. These abilities are essential for designing effective protective systems that meet safety standards and withstand real-world threats.
Ballistic Protection Engineers often encounter the challenge of balancing protection levels with weight and flexibility requirements. Creating armor that effectively stops high-velocity projectiles while remaining lightweight and comfortable for users requires a strong understanding of materials science and constant innovation. Additionally, engineers must stay current with evolving threats and international testing standards, often working closely with multidisciplinary teams such as product designers, testing specialists, and manufacturing engineers to iterate and refine prototypes.
What are popular job titles related to Ballistic Protection Engineer jobs?
For Ballistic Protection Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
