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Defense Engineer Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Cybersecurity Engineer Salary Range: $135,000 to $155,000 Annually Location : Dahlgren, VA ... Ship Self Defense system, Cooperative Engagement Capability, Ground / Air Task Oriented Radar ...

Senior Cybersecurity Engineer Salary Range: $135,000 to $155,000 Annually Location : Dahlgren, VA ... Ship Self Defense system, Cooperative Engagement Capability, Ground / Air Task Oriented Radar ...

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Defense Engineer Salary information

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$38K

$115.9K

$191.5K

How much do defense engineer salary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense engineer salary in the United States is $115,864.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $151,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges defense engineers face when working on classified or sensitive projects?

Defense engineers frequently encounter the challenge of adhering to strict security protocols when working on classified projects. This often means limited access to information, restricted collaboration with external parties, and additional layers of approval for design changes or data sharing. Navigating these security requirements while meeting project deadlines and ensuring technical excellence requires strong attention to detail and adaptability. Teamwork and clear communication within secure environments are crucial for overcoming these challenges and successfully delivering on project goals.

What is the average salary of a defense engineer?

The average salary of a defense engineer in the United States typically ranges from $75,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, education, location, and the specific employer. Entry-level positions may start around $70,000, while more experienced engineers or those in specialized roles can earn upwards of $130,000 or more. Defense engineers working in high-demand areas or with advanced security clearances may also receive additional compensation or bonuses.

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

To thrive as a Defense Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, problem-solving, and security protocols, typically supported by a degree in electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with defense-specific software, CAD tools, and security clearance requirements is often necessary. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong analytical skills help professionals excel in this high-stakes environment. These competencies are crucial for designing, testing, and maintaining systems that ensure national security and operational effectiveness.

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

AspectDefense EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Security ClearancesBachelor's in Engineering or related field, certifications like INCOSE
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agenciesTechnology firms, aerospace, defense
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military projectsBroad industry use including defense, IT, aerospace

Defense Engineer salaries typically align with those of Systems Engineers due to overlapping credentials and work environments. However, Defense Engineers often require security clearances and work specifically on military projects, which can influence salary differences. Both roles are vital in defense and technology sectors, with salary variations based on experience, location, and security requirements.

More about Defense Engineer Salary jobs

What cities are hiring for Defense Engineer Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Defense Engineer Salary job openings:

What states have the most Defense Engineer Salary jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Defense Engineer Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,864 per year, or $55.7 per hour.

Senior Cyber Defense Engineer - OIT

Emory University

Atlanta, GA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Emory Healthcare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 217 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • The Senior Cyber Defense Engineer has responsibilities in multiple information security disciplines relevant to the team such as: incident response, vulnerability management, intrusion detection and prevention, threat intelligence, and security operations, in cloud and on-premise environments.
  • Investigates and responds to cyber incidents within the network environment.
  • Collects data from a variety of security monitoring tools, including intrusion detection system alerts, firewall and network traffic logs, and host system logs to analyze events that occur within the environment.
  • Determines and documents information security requirements and controls necessary for the protection of information resources.
  • Provides guidance and assistance regarding information security matters such as the interpretation of information security policies and requirements or their applicability to particular situations.
  • Participates in information security incident response activities, risk assessment and risk management activities, and vulnerability assessment and vulnerability management activities spanning multiple business units.
  • Participates in information security projects and initiatives.
  • Performs operational tasks supporting information security functions such as intrusion detection and prevention, security monitoring, vulnerability remediation, security incident prevention and remediation.
  • Supports, maintains, monitors, troubleshoots and enhances security monitoring and response tools, methodologies, software, and hardware.
  • Analyzes data from Information Security tools and provides reports and recommended response actions to Information Security management.
  • Represents Information Security to other organizations on information security related matters, as assigned.
  • Publishes regular status reports and submits to management.
  • Performs related responsibilities as required.
  • Level: An experienced cybersecurity professional, typically obtained through advanced education and work experience.
  • Works independently with minimal supervision.
  • Leads other team members through specific tasks and provides guidance.
  • Stands in for department leadership when they are unavailable.
  • Responsibilities typically include: Establishing operational plans for job area; Developing and implementing new products, processes, standards or operational plans that will have impact on the achievement of functional results.
  • Problems faced are difficult to complex.
  • Requires communication with cybersecurity and IT leadership and occasional communication with senior leadership across the enterprise.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A bachelor's degree and six years of related IT experience including demonstrated advanced technical knowledge in multiple information security domains, OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
  • Excellent task management and team participation skills.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.

NOTE: Tasks related to this position can be performed remotely with only occasional visits to an Emory University location.  Eastern (EST) time zone business hours may apply.  Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.  Emory does not approve as a primary work location in the following states; NJ, AK, and HI, any U.S. Territories or outside of the United States.


Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).

Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.


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