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Combat Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Raytheon is seeking a talented and motivated Combat Systems Engineer II to join our Surface Radar team within the Systems Engineering and Test Capabilities (SE&TC) Discipline, supporting the Ship ...

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Senior Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$94K - $178K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking Senior Systems Engineers to serve as subject matter experts on the AN/SQQ-89(V) Undersea Warfare combat system in San Diego, CA, and Hampton Roads, VA . These positions lead ...

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Combat Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do combat systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat systems engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a combat systems engineer?

Combat Systems Engineers are specialized engineers who design, develop, integrate, and maintain the complex electronic and software systems used in military defense platforms, such as ships, aircraft, and ground vehicles. Their work involves ensuring that radar, sonar, weapon control, communications, and other warfare systems operate effectively and reliably under demanding conditions. They collaborate closely with other engineers, technicians, and military personnel to deliver and sustain technologically advanced, mission-critical solutions. These professionals play a key role in enhancing the operational capability and safety of armed forces.

What collaborative projects does a combat systems engineer participate in, and how do they interact with other teams?

Combat Systems Engineers frequently work on multi-disciplinary projects that require close collaboration with software developers, hardware engineers, systems integrators, and project managers. They are often involved in integrating new combat technologies, troubleshooting system interoperability, and conducting system performance tests. Regular communication with naval operators and defense clients is also common to ensure that solutions meet practical operational requirements. Working in cross-functional teams is essential, and strong teamwork and communication skills are highly valued in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a combat systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Combat Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or systems engineering, knowledge of defense systems, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with specialized software (such as MATLAB or CAD tools), systems integration platforms, and security clearances are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the reliable design, integration, and maintenance of complex defense technologies in high-stakes environments.

What is the difference between Combat Systems Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectCombat Systems EngineerSystems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often military or defense certificationsBachelor's or higher in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDefense, military, or aerospace industries, often in secure facilitiesVarious industries including tech, aerospace, manufacturing
Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military projectsBroad industry applications including tech, aerospace, and manufacturing
Job FocusDesign, integrate, and test combat systems and weaponryDesign and develop complex systems for diverse applications

While both roles involve systems design and integration, Combat Systems Engineers focus specifically on military and defense combat systems, often requiring specialized certifications and security clearances. Systems Engineers have a broader scope across various industries, emphasizing general system development and integration.

What are popular job titles related to Combat Systems Engineer jobs in California?

For Combat Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Combat Systems Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Combat Systems Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Combat Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Combat Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Combat Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Combat Systems Engineer II

Raytheon

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


RTX rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-08-24

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-CA-SAN DIEGO-SD1 ~ 8650 Balboa Ave ~ SAN ANTONIO BLDG

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

Secret - Current

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required on day 1

At RTX, the world’s largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. 

Raytheon brings the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. We deliver solutions that help our nation and allies defend freedom and deter aggression, creating a safer, more secure world. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

Raytheon is seeking a talented and motivated Combat Systems Engineer II to join our Surface Radar team within the Systems Engineering and Test Capabilities (SE&TC) Discipline, supporting the Ship Systems Integration & Sustainment portfolio of products. As a Systems Engineer you will apply your experience in system installation, configuration, activation, stage testing, and advanced troubleshooting working on the advanced Naval Radar systems currently employed by the US Navy. This position is based in San Diego, CA, with exciting opportunities to conduct shipboard testing during ship system activations, testing, and at-sea periods.

What You Will Do

  • Serve as a technical member of the Shipboard Test Team, working with various stakeholders Systems Integration and System Test Management, Navy Agencies, Navy Labs, and key vendors.

  • Perform various radar equipment installation, checkout, testing, reporting of results, Hardware and Firmware upgrades and maintain records as required. 

  • Ensure the upkeep and functionality of the Ship’s radar systems. 

  • Provide daily internal status reports to the area lead and key stakeholders. 

  • Establish and maintain relationships with engineering and customer representatives.  

  • Provide underway system support for at sea test events. 

  • Physical requirements of this position will include: the ability to work in confined spaces, climb stairs, lift and carry 35 lbs., work in an industrial environment, and live/work for short periods at sea.

  • This position will require up to 30% travel to testing and activation locations, to include at-sea periods onboard US Navy Ships.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 2 years of prior relevant experience.

  • Experience with combat system operation and maintenance, including radar system installation, integration, and/or troubleshooting.

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Experience with SPY-1 or SPY-3 radar systems, including troubleshooting, operation, and corrective maintenance.

  • 2+ years of experience with Red Hat Enterprise Linux in operational or enterprise environments.

  • 2+ years of experience with network troubleshooting, including routing, switching, and enclave connectivity.

  • Industry certifications such as CISCO CCNA or Red Hat OS.

  • Prior experience working aboard U.S. Naval ships.

  • Familiarity with MATLAB for data analysis, modeling, or system performance evaluation.

What We Offer

  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

  • Relocation Eligibility– Relocation assistance available

Learn More & Apply Now!

  • Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role.

  • Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 75,800 USD - 144,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About RTX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing, it services, aerospace product and parts manufacturing and engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waltham, MA, US

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