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Defense Electrical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$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 ...

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 ...

Lead Electrical Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

The Leidos Defense Electrical Systems Department is seeking a talented Lead Electrical Engineer to join an experienced, high performing, multidisciplinary team to create unique solutions to complex ...

Description The Leidos Defense Electrical Systems Department is seeking a talented Lead Electrical Engineer to join an experienced, high performing, multidisciplinary team to create unique solutions ...

The Leidos Defense Electrical Systems Department is seeking a talented Lead Electrical Engineer to join an experienced, high performing, multidisciplinary team to create unique solutions to complex ...

The Leidos Defense Electrical Systems Department is seeking a talented Lead Electrical Engineer to join an experienced, high performing, multidisciplinary team to create unique solutions to complex ...

The Leidos Defense Electrical Systems Department is seeking a talented Lead Electrical Engineer to join an experienced, high performing, multidisciplinary team to create unique solutions to complex ...

Description The Leidos Defense Electrical Systems Department is seeking a talented Lead Electrical Engineer to join an experienced, high performing, multidisciplinary team to create unique solutions ...

As an Electrical Engineer at ApolloTech MSI, you will design, develop, and test electrical systems and components for defense and robotics applications. You will collaborate closely with mechanical ...

As an Electrical Engineer at ApolloTech MSI, you will design, develop, and test electrical systems and components for defense and robotics applications. You will collaborate closely with mechanical ...

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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 Jun 21, 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 are Defense Electrical Engineers?

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior defense electrical engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in systems design, and security clearances can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand sectors like defense contracting and aerospace. Compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives for top-tier professionals in this field.

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.

Can electrical engineers work in the defense industry?

Electrical engineers can work in the defense industry, where they often design and develop electronic systems, communication devices, and weaponry. They typically need security clearances, specialized knowledge of military standards, and skills in circuit design, embedded systems, and testing. Many roles involve working with government agencies and defense contractors on sensitive projects.

Can you make $500,000 as an Electrical Engineer?

Defense electrical engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and security clearances can potentially earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in senior or specialized roles. Such high compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, and typically requires working in high-demand environments or leadership positions.

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

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior defense electrical engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in systems design, and security clearances can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles often involve leadership, advanced certifications, and work in defense contracting or aerospace industries.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,091 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

$92K - $171K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Specialist, Electrical Engineer, Propulsion Control Systems

 

Job Code: 38805

 

Job Location: Canoga Park, CA

 

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days- totaling 80 hours worked- and have every other Friday off  

 

 

 

Job Description:

 

 

We are seeking a Level 3 Electrical Engineer to support the design, development, integration, and verification of propulsion control systems for advanced defense aerospace platforms. This role focuses on electrical and electronic hardware used in engine control, actuation, sensing, power distribution, and embedded control interfaces for mission-critical propulsion applications. The engineer will work across the full product lifecycle in a highly regulated environment where safety, reliability, and performance are essential.

 

Essential Functions: 

 

  • Design and develop electrical architecture, circuit designs, and interface definitions for propulsion control systems and subsystems.

  • Support development of engine control electronics, sensor/actuator interfaces, power conditioning, wiring, and signal integrity solutions.

  • Create and review schematics, requirements, interface control documents, test procedures, and design analyses.

  • Perform component selection, derating, tolerance analysis, and failure analysis for aerospace and defense applications.

  • Support hardware integration, troubleshooting, verification, validation, and qualification testing in lab and system environments.

  • Collaborate with systems, software, mechanical, manufacturing, quality, and test engineering teams to deliver integrated propulsion control solutions.

  • Ensure designs comply with customer requirements, military standards, airworthiness expectations, and internal engineering processes.

  • Participate in design reviews, root cause investigations, risk reduction activities, and corrective action efforts.

  • Contribute technical input to program planning, cost/schedule estimates, and engineering trade studies.

  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership within assigned work scope.

Qualifications: 

 

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related engineering discipline.

  • 5+ years of relevant experience in aerospace, defense, propulsion, controls, avionics, or other safety-critical systems.

  • 5+ year of experience with analog and digital circuit design, electrical integration, and hardware verification.

  • 5+ years of experience with propulsion control components such as sensors, actuators, control electronics, motor drives, or power systems.

  • Ability to interpret system requirements and translate them into electrical design solutions.

  • 5+ years of experience with lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, power analyzers, DMMs, signal generators, and data acquisition tools.

  • Strong troubleshooting, documentation, and cross-functional communication skills.

 

Preferred Additional Skills: 

 

  • Experience with engine control systems, thrust vector control, electro-mechanical actuation, ignition systems, sensors or related propulsion subsystems.

  • Knowledge of DO-160, MIL-STD-461, MIL-STD-810, IPC, or other aerospace/defense electrical standards.

  • Experience with FPGA/embedded hardware interfaces, control system integration, or environmental qualification testing.

  • Familiarity with requirements management and verification tools such as DOORS, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar engineering toolsets.

  • Master's degree in electrical engineering or related field.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role California, is $92,500 - $171,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.