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Defense Contractor Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Navier

Head of Defense

Washington, DC

Collaborate with Navier's engineering leadership team to identify and capitalize on opportunities ... Manage relationships with contractors and coordinate closely with Navier's defense advisory board ...

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Defense Contractor Engineering information

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$57K

$137K

$197K

How much do defense contractor engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor engineering in the United States is $137,006.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,500.00 and $151,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Defense Contractor Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, security clearance eligibility, and relevant degrees such as electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering. Familiarity with defense industry standards, CAD software, modeling tools, and certifications like PMP or Six Sigma are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the development of secure, reliable systems while meeting rigorous government requirements and working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Defense Contractor Engineering vs Defense Systems Engineer?

AspectDefense Contractor EngineeringDefense Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, security clearance often requiredBachelor's or higher in engineering or related field, security clearance common
Work EnvironmentContractor offices, military facilities, project sitesMilitary bases, defense contractor facilities, R&D labs
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense contractors working on military projectsDefense agencies and contractors designing defense systems
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for project roles in defense contractingCompared for system design and integration roles

Defense Contractor Engineering involves working on defense projects within contracting firms, focusing on engineering tasks for military applications. Defense Systems Engineers design, develop, and integrate complex defense systems. While both roles require engineering credentials and security clearances, Defense Contractor Engineers typically focus on project execution, whereas Defense Systems Engineers concentrate on system design and integration.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior defense contractors and specialized aerospace engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and security clearances can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often involve leadership, project management, or working on high-stakes defense systems, and may include bonuses and profit sharing.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

In defense contracting engineering, senior engineers such as systems engineers, aerospace engineers, and electrical engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually. These roles often require security clearances, leadership responsibilities, and work on complex projects or management positions.

What engineers make 300,000 a year?

In defense contracting engineering, senior roles such as aerospace, systems, or electrical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require security clearances, leadership responsibilities, and work on complex projects or defense systems.

What are some common challenges defense contractor engineers face when working on government projects?

Defense contractor engineers often encounter strict regulatory requirements and security protocols, which can add complexity to daily tasks and project timelines. Balancing innovation with compliance is a frequent challenge, as is adapting to evolving client needs and shifting project scopes. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including government personnel, other contractors, and internal stakeholders—is essential for success. Engineers should also be prepared for periodic security clearances and documentation requirements unique to defense projects.

How much do engineers at defense contractors make?

Engineers working at defense contractors typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specialization. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in areas like systems engineering or cybersecurity can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as security clearances, bonuses, and overtime pay.

What are Defense Contractor Engineers?

Defense Contractor Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain technologies, systems, and equipment used by military organizations. They typically work for private companies contracted by government defense agencies to provide specialized engineering expertise. Their projects can range from weapons systems and vehicles to communication networks and cybersecurity solutions. These engineers must often meet strict security requirements and adhere to government standards and regulations.
More about Defense Contractor Engineering jobs
What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Engineering jobs are:
Defense Contractor Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 74% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,006 per year, or $65.9 per hour.

Mid-Level DevSecOps Engineer

Avenue Technologies and Commodities, Inc.

Aurora, CO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Avenue Technologies is seeking a Mid-Level DevSecOps Engineer to support a major U.S. defense contractor.
What You'll Do
On Site Means they will be working at a a major U.S
Defense contractor Facility.Command and Telemetry Software Engineer II (Onsite)At a major U.S
Defense contractor, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling - to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression
We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today's mission and stay ahead of tomorrow's threat
Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world.a major U.S
Defense contractor's Air and Space Defense Systems (ASDS) strategic business unit (SBU) specializes in multi domain integrated air and missile defense, advanced sensors, space based systems, hypersonics, effectors and cyber sol...
Focused on program execution, business growth and the highest level of customer satisfaction, the ASDS team provides customers with unmatched capabilities of detection and sensing, command and control, and air to air, air to su...
Required Qualifications
See original requisition notes for full required qualifications.
Clearance Requirements
Top Secret / SCI
Work Location
Aurora, CO
About Avenue Technologies
Avenue Technologies & Commodities Inc. (ATCI) provides engineering, technical, and professional services supporting mission-critical defense, aerospace, and government programs. Our employees work alongside industry-leading teams to deliver solutions that strengthen national security and operational readiness.

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