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Combat System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior System Engineer (C)

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

SimIS Inc seeks a System Engineer III to provide combat system simulation support to the Warfare Analysis and Digital Modeling (M) Combat System Simulations Branch (M33), Naval Surface Warfare Center ...

Senior System Engineer (C)

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

SimIS Inc seeks a System Engineer III to provide combat system simulation support to the Warfare Analysis and Digital Modeling (M) Combat System Simulations Branch (M33), Naval Surface Warfare Center ...

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Combat System Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do combat system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat system 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 the difference between Combat System Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectCombat System EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often military or defense certificationsBachelor's or higher in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, military bases, R&D labsVarious industries including aerospace, tech, manufacturing
Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military applicationsBroad across multiple sectors
Job FocusDesign, integrate, and test combat systemsDesign and manage complex systems across industries

Combat System Engineers specialize in military and defense systems, focusing on combat-related technology, while Systems Engineers have a broader scope across various industries. Both roles require engineering degrees, but their applications and environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by Combat System Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing military platforms?

Combat System Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new technologies and legacy systems, maintaining strict cybersecurity standards, and adhering to rigorous defense industry regulations. They must coordinate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including software developers, hardware engineers, and defense contractors, to troubleshoot integration issues and validate system performance. Balancing innovation with reliability and safety is crucial, as any updates must not disrupt mission-critical capabilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Combat System Engineer, and why are they important?

A Combat System Engineer needs a solid background in systems engineering, electronics, and computer science, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with defense industry tools such as MATLAB, CAD software, radar/sensor integration systems, and often security clearances or certifications like CompTIA Security+ is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital to ensure the development, maintenance, and reliability of complex defense systems in high-stakes environments.

What is a Combat System Engineer?

A Combat System Engineer is a professional who specializes in designing, integrating, testing, and maintaining military combat systems, such as radar, weapons, and communications equipment on ships, aircraft, or ground vehicles. They ensure that these complex systems work seamlessly together to achieve mission objectives and enhance operational effectiveness. Their work often involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, troubleshooting technical issues, and staying current with advancements in defense technology.
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What cities are hiring for Combat System Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Combat System Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Combat System Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Combat System Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Combat System Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 96% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.
Combat System Analyst

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description

Do you enjoy developing expertise in combat systems and analyzing ground test, flight test, and real-world data?

Are you ready to join a collaborative team in shaping the development and analysis of command and control systems influencing the future of homeland and theater missile defense?

If so, someone like you would be a great addition to our team at APL!

The Engagement Optimization Group (A3I) is a team of software and systems engineers, systems analysts, mathematicians, and technical leaders who apply innovative solutions to real-world defense system problems. We are seeking a motivated and innovative Combat System Analyst to evaluate command and control systems and algorithms and analyze system-level performance. This role involves evaluating the performance of current and future Aegis Combat System baselines and future Coordinated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) architectures such as Golden Dome for America (GDA).

As a Combat System Analyst, you will ...
  • Validate system performance for current and future Integrated Air and Missile Defense Systems through analysis of ground test, flight test, and operational data.
  • Develop novel techniques to improve analysis processes and anomaly identification.
  • Collaborate closely with sponsors and prime contractor representatives to conduct the root cause analysis of performance deficiencies and develop corrective actions.
  • Develop domain expertise and acquire deep knowledge of Aegis commandanddecision algorithms, and IAMD concepts.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Possess a BS Degree or higher in Systems Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Physics, Mathematics, or a comparable academic background.
  • Have 2+ years of experience conducting combat systems engineering and/or analysis of missile defense system test data.
  • Have strong skills in programming in MATLAB and/or Python.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately a Final Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Have previous experience working in DoD/DoW or for a DoD/DoW prime contractor.
  • Are familiar with systems engineering processes and influencing system design.
  • Have previous experience working with data from the Aegis Weapon System.
  • Hold an active Secret or higher security clearance.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttps://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually