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How much do darpa engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for darpa engineering in the United States is $31.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the career opportunities at DARPA?

DARPA offers career opportunities primarily for engineers, scientists, and technical professionals involved in advanced research and development projects. Positions often require strong backgrounds in engineering, computer science, or related fields, and may involve working with cutting-edge technologies in a fast-paced environment. Opportunities include research roles, program management, and technical support, with security clearances typically required.

How much do DARPA engineers make?

DARPA engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Salaries can vary based on the specific engineering discipline and the complexity of projects involved in defense research and development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DARPA Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DARPA Engineer, you need advanced expertise in engineering or computer science, typically supported by a relevant graduate degree and a track record of innovative research. Familiarity with emerging technologies, secure communication systems, and government project management tools, as well as security clearance, are often required. Strong analytical thinking, creative problem-solving, and the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams are essential soft skills. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving groundbreaking technological advancements in high-stakes, mission-critical environments.

Is it hard to get a job at DARPA?

Getting a job at DARPA as an engineer is highly competitive due to the agency's focus on advanced research and innovation. Candidates typically need strong technical skills, security clearances, and relevant experience in fields like engineering, computer science, or related disciplines. The hiring process involves rigorous screening and interviews, making it a challenging but prestigious opportunity for qualified applicants.

What is DARPA engineering?

DARPA engineering refers to the work performed by engineers at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a research and development agency of the United States Department of Defense. These engineers work on groundbreaking projects in areas like robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and advanced materials, often with the goal of enhancing national security and technological innovation. DARPA engineers collaborate with academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies to turn innovative ideas into practical solutions, frequently leading to technological advancements that benefit both military and civilian sectors.

What is the difference between Darpa Engineering vs Systems Engineer?

AspectDarpa EngineeringSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, security clearance, specialized trainingEngineering or related degree, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, defense projectsCorporate, government, or defense sectors, project-based
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily government agencies like Darpa, defense contractorsTechnology firms, defense, aerospace, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Darpa Engineering focuses on advanced research and development for defense projects, often requiring security clearances and specialized skills. Systems Engineers design, analyze, and manage complex systems across various industries, including defense. While both roles involve engineering expertise, Darpa Engineers are more research-oriented within government projects, whereas Systems Engineers have broader applications in system design and integration across sectors.

What types of engineering projects and challenges can I expect to work on as a DARPA engineer?

As a DARPA engineer, you'll typically work on cutting-edge, high-impact projects that push the boundaries of current technology in areas such as robotics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and advanced materials. The work environment is highly collaborative, with interdisciplinary teams tackling complex problems that often require innovative thinking and rapid prototyping. You may face challenges like adapting to evolving project scopes, protecting sensitive information, and meeting ambitious deadlines. This role offers unique opportunities for professional growth by allowing you to contribute to groundbreaking research and interact with leading experts from academia, industry, and government.

Does DARPA hire mechanical engineers?

DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, hires mechanical engineers for research and development projects involving robotics, materials, and systems engineering. Candidates typically need a strong background in engineering principles, relevant technical skills, and security clearances. Mechanical engineers at DARPA work on innovative technologies often requiring advanced degrees and specialized experience.
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What cities are hiring for Darpa Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Darpa Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Darpa Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Darpa Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Darpa Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,624 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
DARPA SETA Physical Chemist/Materials Scientist SME

DARPA SETA Physical Chemist/Materials Scientist SME

Pae

Arlington, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Amentum is a leading provider of engineering, scientific, and program management support services to some of the top agencies in the U.S. government, including the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), NASA, the Department of Homeland Security, and the intelligence community.

Amentum is currently seeking talented, enthusiastic, and dynamic individuals to support DARPA in formulating, monitoring, and transitioning advanced research and development programs to the U.S. military in multiple areas, including physical chemistry, chemical analysis, chemical sensing, corrosion, and materials sciences.

This is a full-time position based in Arlington, VA, with the opportunity for remote work.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Provide Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) and Subject Matter Expertise (SME) to DARPA in the execution of advanced technology, research, and prototype demonstration programs.

  • Candidates will lead SETA technical and management teams.

  • Candidates will serve as a primary support contractor to DARPA Program Managers, DARPA leadership, performers, integrated product teams (IPTs), and the research and development communities across industry, academia, and the Government.

  • Support the identification and implementation of new program concepts.

  • Provide program management and acquisition support.

  • Identify and translate requirements into technology research and development objectives.

  • Perform independent technical assessments of new technologies and system designs, including evaluation of alternatives, trade studies, and cost-benefit analyses.

  • Support technical interchange meetings and design reviews.

  • Support program experimentation and testing efforts, including preparation of experiment/test plans and coordination with performers, government agents, test ranges, and test facilities.

  • Author program briefings and technical reports.

  • Candidates will travel approximately 25% of the time.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry, materials science, or a related field with a minimum of 10 years of experience

  • Demonstrated subject matter expertise in the areas of physical chemistry or material sciences, advising multiple efforts

  • Experience in relevant defense-related technology research and/or development programs.

  • Ability to provide practical and creative solutions in a dynamic work environment, while working effectively with a team.

  • Technical leadership experience and superior oral and written communication skills

  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a rapidly evolving environment

  • Must have an active US Government Secret Clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI Clearance. Please note US citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance and TS/SCI

Desired Qualifications:

  • DAPRA program support experience

  • Ability to quickly identify and resolve program execution risks, mitigations, and issues

  • Candidates should be self-starters capable of working both independently and as part of a team

  • Master's degree or PhD

  • Active US Government TS Clearance with SCI eligibility. Please note US Citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a TS Clearance with SCI eligibility

Compensation Details:

$150K-$200K

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

04/22/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.