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Combat Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

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 ...

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

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 ...

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · 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 ...

Sayres Defense

Lead Combat Systems SME

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Conduct combat systems readiness assessments. * Evaluate maintenance execution and material ... Navy shipbuilding and maritime programs, delivering acquisition, engineering, logistics, and ...

Sayres Defense

Lead Combat Systems SME

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Conduct combat systems readiness assessments. * Evaluate maintenance execution and material ... Navy shipbuilding and maritime programs, delivering acquisition, engineering, logistics, and ...

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Combat Systems Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do combat systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat 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 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.
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Combat Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Combat Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Navy Combat Systems Engineer/Technician

Full Scope

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Duties:

Our Client is looking for Navy Combat System experts to support our Navy Surface Warfare Center customer at Port Hueneme (NSWC-PHD). We are seeking motivated individuals to provide technical and engineering support for the Common Display Systems (CDS), Consoles, Displays, Peripherals (CDP), and Common Processing System (CPS), Networks, Processing, Storage (NPS). Duties will include assembly, kitting, testing, and developing/reviewing documentation and engineering drawings. Applicants will:
- interpret and review production fabrication and assembly drawings against ASME Y14 drawing standards and their relevance to production and logistics products.
- update standard Navy logistics products and processes including Technical Manuals, Technical Manual Deficiency Reports (TMDERS), Planned Maintenance Systems, Technical Feedback Reports, and Approved Parts Lists.
- interact with the engineering and logistics teams on and off-site to review and update documentation for CDS/CPS program.
- perform troubleshooting and maintenance on equipment
- work with standard tools to disassemble and assemble CDS/CPS equipment at the Lowest Replaceable Unit level.

Clearance Required: Secret

Qualifications:

At least four (4) years of experience operating, maintaining, troubleshooting and testing Navy Combat Systems, Computer Networks and/or Display Systems.

At least two (2) years of experience working with SolidWorks and AutoCAD - preference is to have associate certifications at a minimum.

High School diploma or GED equivalent

Desired but not required:
- U.S. Navy certification in Fire Control Navy Enlisted Codes (NECs) related to ACS, ACI/Networks or other integrated weapon systems.
- Prior and recent experience working on board US Navy Ships.
- College Degree, or course work leading to a degree in an engineering discipline

Skills and Abilities:

Applicant must be knowledgeable in AutoCAD, Unigraphics NX, and SolidWorks. Know how to create a .pdf file from a SolidWorks drawing file, understand the hierarchy structure of SolidWorks, the difference between .sldprt, .sldas, and .slddrw files, and the relationships between model (parts and assemblies) to drawings/dimensions.

Applicant must be knowledgeable of US Navy system design requirements, Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) development, Test (physical and functional), Environmental Qualification Test, MILSTD requirements, Level III TDP structure, Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (DMS) Solutions and ISEA Support functions.

Applicant must have strong computer skills and be advanced in Microsoft and the Microsoft file systems.

Possess excellent verbal and written communications skills since applicant will interact directly with NSWC PHD Sponsors and Fleet personnel on design, development, and in-service for the CDS/CPS Program.

Proven experience operating, maintaining, troubleshooting and testing electronic systems is a must. Ideal candidate will have recent experience as an enlisted Navy Fire Controlman (FC) working AEGIS Computer Infrastructure/Networks.

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