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Defense Electrical Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The future of defense will be decided by those who field intelligent machines at scale. At Scout AI ... The Role We're looking for an Electrical Engineer who is excited about working on a variety of ...

Electrical Engineer

Gardena, CA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

We are a stealth-mode Aerospace & Defense startup headquartered in Gardena, CA. Our founding team ... As an electrical engineer you will own the design, manufacturing, and integration of the embedded ...

Electrical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$130K - $280K/yr

The future of defense will be decided by those who field intelligent machines at scale. At Scout AI ... The Role We're looking for an Electrical Engineer who is excited about working on a variety of ...

Electrical Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

... Defense. If you're excited about disrupting legacy industries, and passionate about building next ... Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering; or other engineering degree * 3+ years of ...

... Defense. If you're excited about disrupting legacy industries, and passionate about building next ... Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering; or other engineering degree * 3+ years of ...

Electrical Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

As an Electrical Engineer on our team, you'll work on the development of advanced systems across ... Take on exciting challenges in defense and warfighting with us as we support advanced technologies ...

Electrical Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Electrical Engineer The Opportunity: As an Electrical Engineer on our team, you'llwork on ... Take on exciting challenges in defense and warfighting with us as we support advanced technologies ...

... defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide. We are hiring an Electrical Engineer to ... join our team in Rancho Bernardo. This position is responsible for supporting the Electrical ...

Who We Are GITAI is a vertically integrated space and defense company building the next generation ... Your Mission As an Electrical Engineer at GITAI, you will own board-level electrical hardware ...

Who We Are GITAI is a vertically integrated space and defense company building the next generation ... Your Mission As an Electrical Engineer at GITAI, you will own board-level electrical hardware ...

Electrical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

Electrical Engineer FLSA : Exempt RESPONSIBILITIES Provide Electrical Engineering support to ... Desire marine industry (commercial or defense) experience * Ability to make interference control ...

Your Mission As an Electrical Engineer at GITAI, you will own board-level electrical hardware design for spacecraft, robotic systems, and space defense programs, including interceptor-related systems.

Job Title: Electrical Engineer Department: Engineering FLSA : Exempt Location: San Diego, CA ... Desire marine industry (commercial or defense) experience * Ability to make interference control ...

Showing results 21-40

Defense Electrical Engineer information

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.

What job categories do people searching Defense Electrical Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Electrical Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Defense Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Defense Electrical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Electrical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 hours ago


Job description

At Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company (EBAD), we believe that our strengths are built on our most important resource - our people. Join EBAD and you'll be a part of a team who creates cutting edge technology that will blast us into the future. No other company can match the innovative energetic solutions that we provide. At EBAD you will actively contribute to successful missions putting men, women and satellites into space, and protecting our armed service men and women around the world. If this is the culture and work environment you are seeking, then EBAD is the place for you!

Job Description

The Electrical Test Engineer serves as the technical lead for the development, validation, and troubleshooting of Electronics Support Equipment (ESE) and Special Test Equipment (STE). The Electrical Test Engineer is involved from the start of product design, supports engineering design verification testing, product acceptance, qualification, and production test.

Responsibilities include:

  • Program automated test stands in C# programming language, including:
    • Create automated testing algorithms for electromechanical devices device testing.
    • Incorporate communication with standard test equipment such as power supplies and, multimeters, electronic loads, Data Acquisition units, etc
    • Incorporate communication with SQL database for both Inputs and Outputs from testing
    • Support rapid software updates for active development and production tests
  • Provide sustaining engineering on production programs
  • Interpret test data & results
  • Solve engineering problems, investigate failures and take corrective actions
  • Perform Verification and Validation to Technical Requirements
  • Complete schematic capture and PCB layout activities using Altium Designer.

Requirements:

The successful candidate shall have a BS/MS in Electrical or Computer engineering and a minimum of 3 years of related engineering experience.

Required experience includes:

  • Experience with C# programming language under .NET environment is required
  • Experience in interfacing computers with electronic instrumentation is required
  • Experience with Microsoft SQL and database design
  • Demonstrated competency in developing automated test software for electronic products
  • Excellent knowledge of standard lab equipment (power supplies, oscilloscopes, DMM's, etc.)
  • Strong written, verbal and presentation skills for interaction with teammates, test technicians, management, and with customers
  • Experience reading electrical schematics for analog/digital circuits
  • Proven ability to interpret and analyze mechanical, and/or electrical specification requirements and data

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience working in an aerospace industry test lab or production environment
  • Experience with schematic capture and PCB layout using Altium Designer.
  • Experience using MATLAB, MathCAD
  • Previous experience troubleshooting problems in a production floor environment
  • Experience working in a development atmosphere
  • Fundamental knowledge of root cause/corrective and preventative action
  • Ability to design and produce test boxes as needed (i.e. breakout box) a plus
  • Hands-on experience with soldering and assembly a plus
  • PCB Assembly, Electro-mechanical Assembly, IPC & J-STD Specification Knowledge a plus
  • Analog circuit board design & troubleshooting a plus

Compensation:

Salary Range: $100,000 - $140,000 per year. Salary is determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.