ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Darpa Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDarpa Engineering Jobs

Darpa Engineering information

See salary details

$12

$31

$57

How much do darpa engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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.

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.
More about Darpa Engineering jobs
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:
What job categories do people searching Darpa Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Darpa Engineering jobs are:
Darpa Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Engineering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,624 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Scientist Engineer

Scientist Engineer

Native American Technology

Arlington, VA

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

NATECH is recruiting for Scientist Engineer's to join our team supporting the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Microsystems Technology Office (MTO)


All personnel must have a current Secret clearance to be considered.

Requirements

Level I

Active Secret Clearance

A minimum of a Bachelor degree

At least 2 years of experience in planning and developing technical projects of a R&D nature, concerned with unique or controversial problems which have an important effect on major Department of War (DOW) programs. 

Demonstrated ability to make decisions independently on R&D engineering problems and methods, and to resolve important questions and to plan and coordinate work. 

Demonstrated experience in one or more DARPA technical areas is highly desired. Published articles in Field of Expertise highly desirable.


Level II

Active Secret Clearance

A minimum of a Master's degree

At least 7 years of experience at progressively more difficult levels in planning and developing technical projects of an R&D nature, concerned with unique or controversial problems which have an important effect on major DOW programs. 

Demonstrated skill in conceiving, planning, and conducting research in problem areas of considerable scope and complexity requiring unconventional or novel approaches and sophisticated research techniques.

Demonstrated ability to make decisions independently on R&D engineering problems and methods, and to resolve important questions and to plan and coordinate work. 

Demonstrated experience in the use of advanced techniques, theories, precepts, and practices in one or more DARPA technical areas is desired. 

At least three (3) years extensive experience, background and knowledge of one or more DARPA programs is highly desirable. 

Published articles in Field of Expertise highly desirable.


Level III

Active Secret Clearance

A minimum of a Masters degree

At least 12 years of extensive experience in progressively more difficult levels in planning and developing technical projects of a research and development nature, concerned with unique or controversial problems which have an important effect on major Department of War (DOW) programs. 

Demonstrated skill in conceiving, planning, and conducting research in problem areas of considerable scope and complexity requiring unconventional or novel approaches and sophisticated research techniques.

Individual will have successfully demonstrated the ability to independently conduct the appropriate analysis to offer recommendations, solutions, and alternatives to resolve R&D issues, concerns, problems, or methods in areas related to DARPA Technical Offices. 

Demonstrated experience leading technical teams and providing scientific guidance on complex research initiatives. 

Individual will have demonstrated experience in the use of advanced techniques, theories, precepts, and practices required in the field/disciplines to which he/she is providing expertise. 

At least five (5) years of experience working with DARPA Program Managers is highly desirable. 

Published articles in Field of Expertise highly desirable.

Apply