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Combat Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer will play a key role in planning, coordinating, and executing verification, validation, and acceptance ...

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer will play a key role in planning, coordinating, and executing verification, validation, and acceptance ...

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer will play a key role in planning, coordinating, and executing verification, validation, and acceptance ...

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Combat Systems Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$53K

$126.1K

$165.6K

How much do combat systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat systems engineer in Virginia is $126,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $155,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a combat Systems Engineer do?

A Combat Systems Engineer designs, develops, and integrates military combat systems, including weaponry, sensors, and communication networks. They analyze system performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure systems meet operational requirements, often using simulation tools and technical standards. The role requires strong engineering skills, knowledge of defense technology, and adherence to safety and security protocols.

What are Combat Systems Engineers?

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 engineers make 300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or managerial capacities.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most engineering roles do not reach a $500,000 annual salary, some highly specialized or executive-level engineers, such as senior aerospace or systems engineers in defense industries, can earn this level of compensation. These roles often require advanced skills, security clearances, and extensive experience, and may include bonuses or profit sharing that contribute to total compensation.

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 are some of the typical collaborative projects a Combat Systems Engineer participates 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 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain roles in data science or cybersecurity can earn $200,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes management responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.
What are popular job titles related to Combat Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Combat Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Combat Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Combat Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Combat Systems Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,124 per year, or $60.6 per hour.
Combat Systems Senior Systems Engineer

Combat Systems Senior Systems Engineer

Strategic Insight, Ltd.

King George, VA โ€ข On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Strategic Insight, Ltd. is seeking a Senior Combat Systems Engineer (General Associate) position for the Adjunct Remote Engagement System (ARES) program in support of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWC DD) for the Integrated Combat Systems (V) Department, Warfare Architecture & Engineering division (V10). The Job location is Dahlgren, King George, VA. This position is on-site with limited remote work.

The ARES development team is developing a containerized engagement systems for the US Navy. The ARES system has a manned and unmanned side to the system. The manned side will be installed on manned surface vessels, and the unmanned side will be installed on unmanned surface vehicles. This will provide flexibility to the battle and the ability to send engagement systems into battle without the threat of losing personnel.

Originally established in 1918 as a naval proving ground for testing gun weapon systems, NSWC Dahlgren Division has evolved to focus on advances in technology in Warfare Systems Development and Integration. The NSWC Dahlgren Division is a leading research, development, testing, and engineering (RDT&E) organization within the Department of the Navy.

Mandatory Requirement: Applicants selected for this position may be subject to a Government Security Investigation and must meet eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret clearance level.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

The individual hired in this position will provide senior combat systems engineering support to NSWCDD Integrated Combat Systems Departmentโ€™s (V Department) Warfare Architecture and Engineering Division providing technical support for both development and service programs. This may include:

  • Leveraging systems engineering knowledge in the development, review, and assessment of artifacts across all domains of systems engineering throughout the entire System Engineering โ€œVโ€,
  • Communicating NSWC DD status, risks, and schedules with program office stakeholders and also down flowing information to NSWC DD program team members and different organizations,
  • Understand the interoperability of the complex battle problem of today, including Distributed Maritime Operations,
  • Understand the dynamic surface and strike warfare areas,
  • Develop, review, and support integration test plans and procedures,
  • Support combat system level requirements development, utilize model-based systems engineering techniques/tools, and collaboration between PARMs,
  • Provide strategic planning and engineering skills to integrate newly developed complex systems into legacy systems,
  • Apply system engineering methodologies and tools throughout the development, planning, and integration phase of a development program prior to becoming a Program of Record,
  • Lead NSWC DD risk management program to properly diagnose and report risk, issues, and opportunities to sponsors,
  • Revamp existing Systems Engineering Plan after shift from traditional organic combat systems development to a combat system with an unspecified host platform,
  • Be able to think outside the box and adapt quickly to the changing complexity of the program,
  • Leverage new and developing technologies to bolster and launch the program into the future against threats that have been determined and not even thought of yet,
  • Provide technical direction and advice on technology development, testing, refinement, and building,
  • Work with leadership on Acquisition plan for the ARES program from a NSWC DD perspective, and
  • Others duties as assigned.

Success for working in this position requires:

  • Ability to effectively communicate and work with NSWC Dahlgren Division and Department staff at all levels, consultants, and other government staff โ€“ be a team player.
  • Experience implementing Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices
  • Experience with modeling in Cameo is a plus.
  • Ability to work with sensitive and classified information.
  • Ability to work with NMCI and RDT&E systems.
  • Ability to adapt and multi-task.
  • Ability to work with a high degree of independence, discretion, and personal initiative.
  • Experience working with NAVSEA and MDA leadership at all levels.
  • Self-starter, goal oriented, provides timely feedback on progress made on assignments.
  • Excellent organizational skills: ability to prioritize and coordinate multiple tasks, handle complex assignments, maintain status across several stakeholders, and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent oral, written, and telephone communication skills.
  • Proficiency with MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) including the ability to create and maintain spreadsheets, prepare presentation slides, and produce customized reports.
  • Familiar with Atalanta tool sets such as Confluence and JIRA.

Education and Experience:

  • Fifteen (15) years of General Surface Navy Combat Systems engineering experience with at least seven (7) years of specialized experience. Specialized experience is defined as significant systems engineering responsibilities in one or more of the following areas:
    • Combat Systems Cyber Security;
    • Ships Self Defense System;
    • Combined Integrated Air and Missile Defense Antisubmarine Warfare Trainer (CIAT);
    • Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) class frigate;
    • Aegis Integrated Combat Systems;
    • DDG-1000 Zumwalt class destroyer;
    • Track Management;
    • Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense;
    • Weapon/Combat Systems Experience.
  • A bachelorโ€™s degree supporting electrical engineering, systems engineering, software engineering or significant analysis experience is required.
  • A masterโ€™s degree is a plus.

Strategic Insight, Ltd. is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and has a significant historical presence supporting Naval Sea Systems Command, Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems and the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) in Dahlgren, King George, Virginia. Strategic Insight, Ltd. was established 1985, and for itsโ€™ 40 years has been committed to sustaining excellence and quality growth across our workforce as we strive to improve our clientsโ€™ services and products. Strategic Insight staff members enjoy opportunities for growth, are provided with robust benefits from healthcare, and 401K, to merit bonuses, and participate in annual holiday parties, picnics, and other social events. Our staff members are engaged in the community as well. The office hours are negotiable but generally are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Originally established in 1918 as a naval proving ground for testing gun weapon systems, NSWC Dahlgren Division has evolved to focus on advances in technology in Warfare Systems Development and Integration. The NSWC Dahlgren Division is a leading research, development, testing, and engineering (RDT&E) organization within the Department of the Navy.

Team Culture:

Diversity: All staff members are expected to accomplish their work in a businesslike manner, and always be courteous toward all other staff members, clients, business associates, guests, and visitors. All staff members should be treated in a manner free from bias, favoritism, and any form of illegal discrimination.

Ethics: All members of Strategic Insight should be marked by a commitment to excellence, professional integrity, self-discipline and wise judgment. Our employees reflect this by attention to detail, comprehensive staff work, and honorable behavior.

The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain or to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of the employee assigned to this job.

Strategic Insight, Ltd. is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunity to all applicants and employees in full compliance with all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, gender, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other class protected by applicable state or federal law.