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Combat System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Combat Systems Engineer

Washington, DC ยท Hybrid

$150K - $268K/yr

As a Senior Combat Systems Engineer, you will provide critical engineering support focusing on the ... Prepare technical documentation, including program status reports, system specifications, and ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA ยท On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Support weapon and combat system certification processes, including self-certification criteria for system elements * Address engineering issues for systems employing GOTS and COTS technology * Lead ...

New

Senior Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA ยท On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Support weapon and combat system certification processes, including self-certification criteria for system elements * Address engineering issues for systems employing GOTS and COTS technology * Lead ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Combat System Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do combat system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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?

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.
More about Combat System Engineer jobs

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

System Engineer VI - Principal

Technology Service Corporation

Dahlgren, VA โ€ข On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

TSC is seeking a Systems Engineer VI-Principal in Dahlgren, VA. This position supports the Naval Systems Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) V Department. TSC offers a professional working environment, a competitive salary, and an excellent benefits package. Come and join our team!

Responsibilities:

This position requires a flexible individual with experience in: System and engineering support for the integration of AEGIS Weapon System (AWS) elements into certified AEGIS and BMD baselines. Perform Combat System certification assessments in accordance with Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) combat system certification policy, including assessments of mission effectiveness, capabilities, and limitations to understand and characterize the risks associated with deployment of a Combat System. Provide recommendations and assist in translating certification critical defects into operational risks, impacts, and guidance. Gather, assess, and maintain artifacts that can be used as Objective Quality Evidence (OQE) for certification. Generate certification related documentation and briefing material including engineering assessment reports and status reports. Communicate with, interact, and provide briefs to senior DoD/DoN personnel. Provide recommendations to improve process, and tools to support an enterprise certification approach.

Required Qualifications:
  • 12 years of General Surface Navy Combat Systems engineering experience.
  • Experience with Combat System, Warfare System or Element certification processes.
  • Current DoD Secret Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • BS STEM Degree or 15 Years U.S. Navy surface warfare experience in lieu of Stem Degree.
  • Applicants should be detail oriented, highly organized with the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
TSC Benefits:

TSC offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefit package; including ESOP participation, 401k Plan, Flexible Work Schedules, Tuition Reimbursement, Co-Sponsored Health Plan, Paid Leave and much more.

Applying to TSC:

Only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted.

Employment at TSC is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check, security investigation, and a drug screening. This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60โ€“1.4(a), 60โ€“300.5(a) and 60โ€“741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, TSC is an employee-owned company that has been providing high-quality technical services and solutions for our customersโ€™ for over 50 years.

Our diverse portfolio includes providing; Airborne Sensors and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR); Electronic Warfare Systems; Air and Missile Defense; Space Systems, and Intelligence and Information Systems.

TSC offers a professional working environment, a competitive salary, and an excellent benefits package. Come and join our team!

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