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Defence Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Industrial, Aerospace & Defence, Life Sciences About Us G&H is a world leader in optical designing, testing and manufacturing. As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to ...

... scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals ... Lead the architectural design and delivery of complex defence, research and nuclear infrastructure ...

... scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals ... Lead the architectural design and delivery of complex defence, research and nuclear infrastructure ...

... scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals ... Lead the architectural design and delivery of complex defence, research and nuclear infrastructure ...

Staff Officer (Russia Strategic Analyst)

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90K - $112K/yr

... Defence Plans, and regional and functional to security related environments. The Strategic ... The Branch provides scientific analysis, improving the quality of NATO's Awareness and ...

Degree qualification in Engineering, Science, Risk, Quality, Governance or a related discipline. * Demonstrated experience in nuclear, defence or other safety-critical industries, with a strong focus ...

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Defence Scientist information

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$16

$45

$77

How much do defence scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for defence scientist in the United States is $45.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $55.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Defence Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectDefence ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in science or engineering, security clearance often requiredTypically a master's or PhD in a scientific field, no security clearance usually needed
Work EnvironmentGovernment defense labs, military projects, secure facilitiesUniversities, research institutes, private labs
Employer & IndustryDefense agencies, military contractorsAcademic institutions, private sector R&D

While both Defence Scientists and Research Scientists conduct scientific research, Defence Scientists focus on defense-related applications within government and military settings, often requiring security clearances. Research Scientists work across various industries and academic institutions, with broader research scopes and typically no security restrictions.

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

To thrive as a Defence Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, engineering, or a related scientific discipline, often supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD. Familiarity with specialized modeling software, laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is typically required, along with relevant security clearances. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating on complex research projects and conveying findings to stakeholders. These skills ensure innovative, accurate solutions to defense challenges and support the advancement of national security objectives.

What does a Defence Scientist do?

A Defence Scientist conducts research and develops technologies to support national security and military operations. They work on projects related to weapons systems, surveillance, cybersecurity, protective equipment, and more, using their expertise in fields such as physics, engineering, chemistry, or biology. Defence Scientists often collaborate with military personnel, government agencies, and industry partners to solve complex problems and enhance the safety and effectiveness of defence capabilities.

What are some common challenges Defence Scientists face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Defence Scientists often collaborate with experts from various fields such as engineering, cybersecurity, and materials science. A common challenge is effectively communicating complex technical concepts across these disciplines to ensure alignment and project success. Additionally, balancing classified information and strict security protocols with the need for innovation can require careful coordination. Navigating these challenges helps Defence Scientists develop strong teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued in the industry.
More about Defence Scientist jobs
Infographic showing various Defence Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 14% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 75% Physical, 20% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,521 per year, or $45.4 per hour.
Safety Scientist II/ III, EMEA

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 418 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

200th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Office

Job Description

At Thermo Fisher Scientific, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life - enabling our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while taking science a step beyond through research, development and delivery of life-changing therapies. With clinical trials conducted in 100+ countries and ongoing development of novel frameworks for clinical research through our PPD clinical research portfolio, our work spans laboratory, digital and decentralized clinical trial services. Your determination to deliver quality and accuracy will improve health outcomes that people and communities depend on – now and in the future.

Our detailed, goal-oriented team members manage the safety profile of new drugs in clinical trials, oversee case-processing activities through all phases of development and perform regulatory reporting and medical monitoring tasks.

We hire the best, develop ourselves and each other, and recognise the power of being one team. We offer continued career advancement opportunities, award-winning training and benefits focused on the health and wellbeing of our employees.

A Day in the Life:

Responsible for the planning, coordination and delivery of signal detection and product safety scientist activities, with a focus on tasks which are low to high in complexity or which concern low to high complexity products. Additionally supports mentoring of more junior colleagues, development of processes/tools/systems, and may serve as lead on smaller FSP-type projects.

Essential Functions:

  • Serves as a creator/contributor for signal detection and product safety scientist tasks which are low to high in complexity, or which concern low to high complexity products.
  • Serves as a creator/contributor for signal detection and product safety scientist tasks which are ultra-high in complexity, or which concern ultra-high complexity products, under supervision by a more experienced team member.
  • Conducts quality review for signal detection and product safety scientist tasks which are low to high in complexity, or which concern low to high complexity products.
  • Advises clients on safety related issues under supervision by a more experienced team member.
  • Leads small FSP projects.
  • Supports training and mentoring of junior colleagues.
  • Contributes to development of processes, tools and systems.
  • Participates in bid defence and proposal development activities.
  • Works within multiple company and client systems. Interacts with project team members and clients.
  • Ensures that tasks are conducted in accordance with company policies and procedures, contractual agreements, and applicable regulations.
  • Participates in departmental initiatives; Serves as a subject matter expert in designated area.
  • Responsible for routine project implementation and coordination for assigned projects, including leading kick-off meetings, coordination of communications and data requests, participation in client meetings, audits and inspections, and review of metrics and budgets.
  • Works on complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors.
  • Having wide-ranging experience, uses professional concepts and company objectives to resolve complex issues in creative and effective ways.
  • Determines methods and procedures on new assignments and may coordinate activities of other personnel (i.e., Team Lead). Exercises' judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.
  • Frequent contacts with internal personnel and outside customer representatives.

Keys to Success:

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree 

Previous experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job (comparable to 5+ years).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Expertise in pharmacovigilance requirements relating to marketed products and clinical trials across all major markets
  • Excellent attention to detail, data interpretation and medical-scientific writing skills
  • Advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills with ability to evaluate and escalate appropriately Solid project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and ability to redress issues proactively with limited management intervention
  • Ability to motivate, mentor and provide guidance to less experienced staff, routinely exhibiting robust and proactive scientific expertise
  • Proficient at complex project administration including budget activities and forecasting
  • Excellent oral and written English language communication skills, including paraphrasing skills
  • Advanced computer skills with the ability to work within multiple systems; advanced skills in Microsoft Office products (including Outlook, Word, and Excel)
  • Ability to maintain a positive and professional demeanor in challenging circumstances and to proactively plan for likely scenarios using personal experience
  • Ability to work effectively within a team to attain a shared goal

Our Mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. Watch as our colleagues explain 5 reasons to work with us. As one team of 100,000+ colleagues, we share a common set of values - Integrity, Intensity, Innovation and Involvement - working together to accelerate research, solve complex scientific challenges, drive technological innovation and support patients in need. #StartYourStory with PPD, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, where diverse experiences, backgrounds and perspectives are valued.

Apply today! http://jobs.thermofisher.com

Thermo Fisher Scientific is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.


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