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Defense Electrical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... defense aerospace platforms. This role focuses on electrical and electronic hardware used in engine ... The engineer will work across the full product lifecycle in a highly regulated environment where ...

$92K - $171K/yr

... defense aerospace platforms. This role focuses on electrical and electronic hardware used in engine ... The engineer will work across the full product lifecycle in a highly regulated environment where ...

$106K - $197K/yr

... defense aerospace platforms. This role focuses on electrical and electronic hardware used in engine ... The engineer will work across the full product lifecycle in a highly regulated environment where ...

Electrical Design Engineer

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Onsite - Buffalo, NY Moog Space and Defense Group is looking for an Electrical Design Engineer with a focus on conceptual design, analysis, development and testing of complex electronics for an ...

Electrical Design Engineer

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Onsite - Buffalo, NY Moog Space and Defense Group is looking for an Electrical Design Engineer with a focus on conceptual design, analysis, development and testing of complex electronics for an ...

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Defense Electrical Engineer information

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$50.5K

$111.1K

$168K

How much do defense electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense electrical engineer in the United States is $111,091.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defense electrical engineer?

Defense Electrical Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the manufacturing of electrical equipment used in military and defense applications. Their work often involves creating advanced electronic systems for communication, surveillance, navigation, and weapons systems that must meet rigorous safety and reliability standards. These engineers collaborate with other defense professionals and must stay up-to-date with evolving technologies and security requirements. Their expertise is critical to ensuring the effectiveness and safety of defense systems in challenging environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense electrical engineer?

To thrive as a Defense Electrical Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and systems analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, CAD software, and industry-specific standards, as well as security clearance and certifications like PE (Professional Engineer), are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the development of reliable, secure, and innovative defense solutions that meet stringent safety and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by defense electrical engineers when working on military projects?

Defense Electrical Engineers often navigate complex challenges such as adhering to strict security protocols, meeting rigorous performance and reliability standards, and integrating cutting-edge technologies within legacy defense systems. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers—is essential for ensuring that designs meet project specifications and regulatory compliance. Additionally, they may face tight deadlines and the need to rapidly adapt to evolving defense requirements, making strong problem-solving and communication skills crucial.

What is the difference between Defense Electrical Engineer vs Defense Systems Engineer?

AspectDefense Electrical EngineerDefense Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, security clearance often requiredBachelor's or higher in Systems Engineering, security clearance often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning electrical components, circuits, and systems for defense applicationsIntegrating and managing complex defense systems, including electrical and software components
Industry UsagePrimarily in electrical hardware development for defense projectsInvolved in system-level integration across multiple engineering disciplines

Defense Electrical Engineers focus on designing and developing electrical hardware and systems for defense applications, while Defense Systems Engineers oversee the integration of various subsystems, including electrical, software, and mechanical components. Both roles require security clearances and collaborate closely in defense projects, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Can defense electrical engineers work in the defense industry?

Yes, defense electrical engineers typically work in the defense industry, designing and developing electronic systems for military applications. They often work on projects involving radar, communication systems, and weapon control, requiring knowledge of military standards and security clearances.

How much do defense electrical engineers make?

Defense electrical engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Salaries can vary based on location, industry sector, and specialized skills such as circuit design or systems integration.
More about Defense Electrical Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Defense Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Defense Electrical Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Defense Electrical Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Defense Electrical Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Defense Electrical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,091 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Aerospace Electrical Engineer (Entry-Level to Experienced)

STS Technical Services

Lakehurst, NJ • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

STS Technical Services is hiring Aerospace Electrical Engineers in Lakehurst, New Jersey, to support advanced military aircraft integration programs.
This contract-to-direct hire opportunity is open to candidates ranging from early-career electrical engineers to experienced aerospace professionals. Candidates may be considered for direct employment at or before the six-month mark based on performance and business needs.
Experienced engineers with aircraft electrical systems integration backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Motivated junior engineers with relevant electrical engineering education and an interest in building a career in aerospace and defense will also be considered.
Hiring Note: Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. An active Secret Security Clearance is preferred. Candidates without an active clearance must be eligible to obtain and maintain an Interim Secret Clearance.
Position Details
  • Job Title: Aerospace Electrical Engineer
  • Location: Lakehurst, New Jersey
  • Employment Type: Contract-to-Direct Hire

Position Overview
The Aerospace Electrical Engineer supports the design, integration, testing and implementation of electrical and avionics systems installed on military aircraft.
Projects may involve communications, navigation, GPS, SATCOM, RF systems, mission equipment, weapons integration and other aircraft modification programs.
This position works alongside multidisciplinary engineering teams to help ensure aircraft modifications meet technical, customer, airworthiness and program requirements.
Responsibilities
  • Support aircraft electrical integration activities involving avionics and mission systems
  • Develop and review electrical engineering designs
  • Prepare and review electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
  • Develop harness drawings, cable routing packages and installation documentation
  • Perform electrical load analyses
  • Support power distribution studies and system interface evaluations
  • Research and specify wiring, connectors, relays, circuit protection devices and other electrical components
  • Prepare engineering documentation and technical reports supporting airworthiness and certification requirements
  • Support system-level testing, troubleshooting, validation and verification
  • Develop test procedures, qualification plans and verification documentation
  • Participate in customer kickoff meetings
  • Participate in Preliminary Design Reviews
  • Participate in Critical Design Reviews
  • Participate in program status reviews
  • Provide technical guidance to technicians, manufacturing personnel, drafters, technical writers, inspectors and support staff as appropriate
  • Collaborate with customers and internal stakeholders to ensure technical requirements are achieved

Qualifications
Candidates will be considered across multiple experience levels.
Entry-Level and Early-Career Candidates:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline
  • Relevant electrical engineering education
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications and customer requirements
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Strong technical writing and engineering documentation skills
  • Proficiency with engineering software and Microsoft Office applications
  • Interest in developing a career supporting aerospace and defense electrical systems

Experienced Candidates:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline
  • Experience supporting electrical systems design, integration or aircraft modification projects
  • Knowledge of aircraft electrical power distribution
  • Knowledge of aircraft wiring systems and electrical interfaces
  • Experience with avionics integration
  • Strong technical writing and engineering documentation skills
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications and customer requirements
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Proficiency with engineering software and Microsoft Office applications

Preferred Qualifications
  • Eight or more years of aerospace or defense electrical engineering experience
  • Aircraft electrical systems integration experience
  • Military aircraft modification or sustainment experience
  • Knowledge of communications systems
  • Knowledge of navigation systems
  • Experience with RF systems
  • Experience with SATCOM or GPS systems
  • Mission systems or weapons integration experience
  • Familiarity with EMI/EMC compliance requirements
  • Experience using AutoCAD or similar CAD software
  • Active Secret Security Clearance

Security Requirements
  • Active Secret Security Clearance preferred
  • Candidates without an active clearance may be considered if eligible to obtain and maintain an Interim Secret Security Clearance
  • Candidates must ultimately satisfy all applicable security clearance requirements

Work Environment
  • Fast-paced aerospace engineering environment supporting military aircraft programs
  • Collaborative work with Engineering, Production, Quality and Program Management teams
  • Occasional travel may be required
  • Overtime may be required to support program schedules and customer commitments

About STS Technical Services
STS Technical Services is a Top 100 Staffing Firm that partners with leading aerospace, manufacturing, defense and industrial organizations across the United States. We connect skilled professionals with career opportunities where their experience can make an immediate impact.
Apply Today
Whether you're beginning your electrical engineering career or bringing years of aircraft systems integration experience, this opportunity offers the chance to support advanced military aviation programs in Lakehurst, New Jersey.
Apply today to join STS Technical Services as an Aerospace Electrical Engineer.
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