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Contract Weapons Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Field Svc Eng Sr

Silverdale, WA · On-site

$97K - $164K/yr

The engineer then compiles formal reports based on the analysis, providing actionable ... The sea-based SWS is the ultimate stealthy weapon system and is the first leg of the U.S. nuclear ...

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Contract Weapons Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$43.2K

$131.9K

$217.9K

How much do contract weapons engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract weapons engineer in Seattle, WA is $131,857.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $172,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract weapons engineer?

Contract Weapons Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and test weapons systems, typically on a contractual basis for defense organizations, private defense contractors, or government agencies. Unlike full-time employees, they work on specific projects or for a set duration, providing technical expertise in areas such as ballistics, explosives, and system integration. Their responsibilities can include ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, troubleshooting existing systems, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver effective solutions. Due to the sensitive nature of their work, they often require security clearances and must adhere to strict confidentiality agreements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract weapons engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Weapons Engineer, you typically need a degree in mechanical, electrical, or aerospace engineering, along with experience in weapons systems design and development. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of defense industry regulations or relevant security clearances are usually required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, innovative, and compliant weapons systems that meet client and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by contract weapons engineers in adapting to new projects and teams?

Contract Weapons Engineers often transition between different projects and organizations, which can present unique challenges such as quickly adapting to varying technical requirements and work cultures. They must efficiently learn new systems, comply with diverse safety and regulatory standards, and rapidly build relationships with multidisciplinary team members, including designers, project managers, and compliance officers. Success in this role requires strong adaptability, proactive communication, and a thorough understanding of both the client's expectations and industry best practices.

What is the difference between Contract Weapons Engineer vs Contract Mechanical Engineer?

AspectContract Weapons EngineerContract Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, security clearances, specialized weapons certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government facilities, labsManufacturing plants, design firms, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, military contractorsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Contract Weapons Engineer primarily focuses on designing, testing, and maintaining weapon systems within defense and aerospace sectors, often requiring security clearances. In contrast, Contract Mechanical Engineers work on a broader range of mechanical systems across various industries. While both roles involve engineering expertise, the Contract Weapons Engineer specializes in defense-related projects with specific certifications and security requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Contract Weapons Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Contract Weapons Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Weapons Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Weapons Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Predictive Maintenance Engineer - Facilities

BAE Systems

Silverdale, WA • On-site

$97K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description
A day in the life of a Field Service Engineer. As a Field Service Engineer, a typical day involve visiting nearby facilities to collect data from equipment and cranes using advanced handheld tools. Upon returning to the office, specialized software is utilized to analyze the collected data, determining the condition of the tested equipment. The engineer then compiles formal reports based on the analysis, providing actionable recommendations to customers. Each day can bring new challenges, as the next task may require gathering and researching information for an ad-hoc report or conducting a thorough visual inspection of a building and reporting findings to the customer. Throughout their work, Field Service Engineers maintain and adhere to procedural documentation that meets corporate standards, ensuring consistency and quality in their work.
Career Development and Job Responsibilities:
This role offers a unique opportunity for professional growth, with exposure to a range of Predictive Maintenance technologies and building inspection teams. Team members can leverage this experience to cross-train in various fields, including vibration, ultrasound, thermography, corrosion control, and building science.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to inform decision-making and drive project success
  • Utilize web-based applications (SharePoint) and office software (MS Office Professional Plus) to streamline workflows and enhance communication
  • Develop and disseminate clear, concise communication documents to internal and external teams, ensuring timely updates on critical issues
  • Ensure adherence to systems engineering processes throughout the project lifecycle, tracking progress and reporting on status against specific plans
  • Prepare and review packages, present data to customers, and provide actionable feedback to drive process improvements and meet engineering objectives
  • Stay current with advancements in engineering disciplines, providing cost-effective recommendations that drive business value
About BAE Systems and the U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP)
Our organization has supported the U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) continually since the program's inception in the 1950s. SSP developed the first sea-based, underwater-launched Strategic Weapon System (SWS), a defense system that is truly critical to our national security. For more than six decades, SSP has maintained and upgraded this weapon system and we have been there every step of the way. The sea-based SWS is the ultimate stealthy weapon system and is the first leg of the U.S. nuclear triad. With over 70% of our nation's nuclear arsenal its importance to maintaining world peace cannot be overstated. The development of Columbia, the most advanced nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed submarine ever designed, as well the next D5LE2 weapon system is under way and will begin to be rolled out over the next decade. The Navy projects this system to be operational through 2084, meaning the program will have a total life span of more than 120 years. This is a unique program and BAE Systems employees on this program understand they are part of an important legacy.
As a decades long sole source partner on multiple contracts on behalf of our customer, our program has remarkable stability and is concurrently experiencing significant growth. Combined, these factors provide ample opportunity for professional growth and development for capable and talented individuals on our team.
BAE Systems, Inc. is the wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc.
BAE Systems plc provides some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defense, aerospace, and security solutions. As one of the top ten defense contractors, we employ a skilled workforce of around 100,000 people in more than 40 countries. We develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to protect national security and keep people safe.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
We are seeking candidates with a combination of education and related work experience that aligns with the following:
• High School Diploma/GED and 8+ years of relevant experience
• Associate's Degree and 6+ years of relevant experience
• Bachelor's Degree and 4+ years of relevant experience
• Master's Degree and 2+ years of relevant experience
Essential skills and qualifications:
• Critical thinking and problem-solving: Ability to analyze complex issues and develop effective solutions
• Multiple tasking and time management: Willingness to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, meeting guidelines and deadlines
• Technical knowledge: Understanding of electrical, mechanical systems, building science, and maintenance principles
• Documentation literacy: Ability to read, interpret, and understand operational and maintenance manuals, construction drawings, plans, and technical specifications
• Physical requirements: Occasional use of ladders and catwalks may be necessary
• Communication skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interface with customers and colleagues
• Customer relationship management: Develop and maintain positive working relationships with customers and co-workers
• Technical skills: Basic computer skills, including e-mail, spreadsheets, and presentation software
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
Education, experience, and familiarity:
• Familiarity with Strategic Weapons Facility Pacific operations and physical layout
• Knowledge of Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command operations is desirable
Certifications in one of the following areas:
• Coating Inspector Program
• Airborne/Structure Borne Ultrasound
• Infrared Thermography
• Vibration Analysis
Subject Matter Expert in one of the following areas:
• Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning
• American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineering standards
• Industrial Control Systems
• Maintenance Management
• Facility Inspection
• Electrical Systems
• National Electric Codes
Technical skills and experience with the following tools:
• Trio Vibration Data Collector and ExpertAlert
• Ultraprobe15000/15000B, Data Management System, and Spectralyzer
• FLIR Infrared Camera and FLIR Tools+/FLIR Thermal Studio
• Elcometer 456 and Elcomaster
• Clean motor vehicle driving record
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $97008 - $164914
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Intelligence & Security
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
Intelligence & Security (I&S), based in McLean, Virginia, designs and delivers advanced defense, intelligence, and security solutions that support the important missions of our customers. Our pride and dedication shows in everything we do-from intelligence analysis, cyber operations and IT expertise to systems development, systems integration, and operations and maintenance services. Knowing that our work enables the U.S. military and government to recognize, manage and defeat threats inspires us to push ourselves and our technologies to new levels.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

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