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Biological Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SPA provides expertise across the full range of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and ... We have an upcoming need for a Systems Engineer to provide onsite support at Aberdeen Proving ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Aberdeen, MD

$112K - $153K/yr

Experience with Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) reconnaissance systems and sensors . * Experience with sensor suite integration and system-of-systems engineering. * Experience developing ...

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Biological Systems Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do biological systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for biological 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 is a biological systems engineer?

Biological Systems Engineers are professionals who apply principles of biology, chemistry, and engineering to develop sustainable solutions for challenges involving living systems. Their work often focuses on improving processes in agriculture, food production, environmental protection, and biotechnology. They design and optimize systems such as bioenergy production, waste treatment, and precision agriculture technologies. Biological Systems Engineers play a vital role in addressing issues related to natural resource management and environmental sustainability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biological systems engineer?

To excel as a Biological Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in biology, engineering principles, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in biological systems engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, modeling tools, and laboratory instrumentation, as well as certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set standout professionals apart. These competencies enable the design, optimization, and implementation of sustainable biological systems to address real-world challenges in agriculture, environment, and health.

What are some typical projects a biological systems engineer might work on, and how do they collaborate with multidisciplinary teams?

Biological Systems Engineers often work on projects such as designing sustainable agricultural systems, developing bioenergy solutions, or improving food processing techniques. These projects require collaboration with professionals in fields like environmental science, agronomy, and mechanical engineering. Teamwork is essential, as engineers frequently coordinate with researchers, farmers, and regulatory agencies to ensure that solutions are both effective and compliant with industry standards. Effective communication and project management skills are highly valued in these collaborative environments.

What is the difference between Biological Systems Engineer vs Agricultural Engineer?

AspectBiological Systems EngineerAgricultural Engineer
CredentialsDegree in Biological Systems Engineering or related fieldDegree in Agricultural Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech firms, environmental agenciesFarms, agricultural research centers, equipment companies
Industry UsageBiotech, environmental management, healthcareAgriculture, food production, irrigation systems

Biological Systems Engineers and Agricultural Engineers share foundational engineering skills and often hold similar degrees. However, Biological Systems Engineers focus more on integrating biology with engineering principles across diverse sectors like biotech and environmental management, while Agricultural Engineers specialize in farming systems, crop production, and agricultural infrastructure. Both roles are vital in advancing sustainable practices and technological innovations in their respective fields.

Are biological systems engineers in demand?

Biological systems engineers are in growing demand due to advancements in biotechnology, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. They work in industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy, often requiring skills in systems modeling, bioinformatics, and laboratory techniques. Employment prospects are strong for those with relevant technical expertise and advanced degrees.

Are biological systems engineers well paid?

Biological systems engineers typically earn competitive salaries that reflect their specialized skills in integrating biology and engineering. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but the role generally offers strong compensation compared to other engineering fields. Advanced certifications and expertise in areas like bioinformatics or systems modeling can further increase earning potential.

What does a biological systems engineer do?

A biological systems engineer designs and develops integrated biological and engineering solutions to improve processes in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management. They often work with biotechnology tools, modeling software, and laboratory equipment to optimize biological systems and ensure safety and efficiency. This role requires knowledge of biology, engineering principles, and often involves interdisciplinary collaboration.
More about Biological Systems Engineer jobs

What states have the most Biological Systems Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Biological Systems Engineer jobs include:

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

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

Infographic showing various Biological Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 86% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

DTRA Systems Engineer

Systems Planning and Analysis

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.ย ย 

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of War, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

JOID assists the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) in developing leading edge technologies to counter WMD in support of Combatant Commands (CCMDs) and transitioning these technologies to military services CCMDs. SPA provides expertise across the full range of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosives (CBRNE) WMD, Counter Improvised Threat and Countering Threat Network technologies to support understanding, detection, identification, characterization, denial, control, disabling, defeating, disposing, safeguarding the force, managing consequences, and test and evaluation in support of military and civilian operations.

We have an upcoming need for a Systems Engineer to provide onsite support at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Edgewood, MD.

Responsibilities

This position provides Assistance and Advisory Support (A&AS) to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Chemical and Biological (CB) Defense Department, Physical Technologies Division (RD-CBP). The Physical Technologies Division orients on chemical and biological defense in the area of physical detection, protection, and hazard mitigation. The candidate will provide scientific and project management support while leveraging U.S. military operational understanding to maximize client support for chemical and biological detection, protection, and hazard mitigation technology development. Provide subject matter expertise in the area of chemical and biological threat detection and material decontamination science, technology, and engineering to RD-CBP science and technology managers, understand capability gaps and assisting in establishing project- and product-level strategy and priorities, and ensure portfolios are responsive and mapped to program goals. Draft technology transition agreements between the advanced developers and Joint Science and Technology Office (JSTO), draft long-range Broad Agency Announcements for JSTO, review proposal submissions for technical feasibility and strategic alignment, review technical reports and statements of work to ensure technical validity, evaluate current and emerging protection technologies, and facilitate cross-communication regarding program priorities and courses of action. Provide programmatic, logistics planning, and execution support for meetings with the government clients and their performers, monitor funding documentation and other programmatic metrics for within the division, and assist with drafting presentations, papers, and other programmatic documentation for both technical and senior leader audiences. Determine needs and opinions of warfighters for emerging technologies and conduct presentations of technology developed by the Physical Science and Technologies Division. Formulate, coordinate, and consolidate complex technical, programmatic, and strategic responses to support division initiatives to a variety of internal and external audiences.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or physical science-related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in science and technology project management.
  • Experience in application and analysis of engineering principles for future chemical and biological defense technologies.
  • Strong communication skills (written and oral).
  • Strong analytical skills.
  • Active Secret clearance with eligibility for Top Secret clearance.
  • Able to work fully onsite based on client needs.

ย Desired:

  • Master's degree in engineering.
  • Active Top Secret clearance.
  • Demonstrated experience with technology prototyping or automation.
  • U.S. military experience.
  • U.S. Army Chemical Corps or similar U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, or U.S. Marine Corps experience with chemical and biological defense.
Employment Type: FULL_TIME