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Defense Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Parsons

AEGIS Based Defense Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$103K - $181K/yr

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented AEGIS Based Defense Systems Engineer to join our team! In this role you will be part of a talented and mission oriented professional team of federal ...

Esri

GIS Solution Engineer - Defense

Vienna, VA · On-site

$79K - $130K/yr

Overview GIS Solution Engineers on our Defense team are highly technical, trusted advisors to customers across the National Government team. They inspire customers supporting mission-critical work ...

Leidos

Marine Mechanical Engineer I

Newport News, VA · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Internship, co-op, academic project, or early career experience in marine, naval, or defense engineering * Familiarity with ship design, piping, HVAC, propulsion support systems, or auxiliary ...

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Defense Engineer information

What is a defense engineer?

Defense Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain technologies and systems used for national defense and security. Their work may include developing weapons, surveillance equipment, communications systems, and protective gear for military use. They often collaborate with government agencies and defense contractors to ensure that products meet stringent safety and performance standards. Defense Engineers apply principles from fields such as mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering to solve complex challenges related to defense technology.

How do defense engineers typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during project development?

Defense Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from various disciplines, including software developers, systems analysts, project managers, and manufacturing specialists. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as complex defense projects require integrating multiple technologies and adhering to strict security protocols. Regular meetings, technical reviews, and cross-functional design sessions are common, ensuring that engineering solutions meet both technical requirements and regulatory standards. Being adaptable and open to feedback from different perspectives is key to success in this collaborative environment.

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 systems design, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field and security clearance. Familiarity with CAD software, modeling tools, and knowledge of defense industry standards or certifications like ITAR compliance is often required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities ensure the development of reliable, secure, and innovative defense systems that meet stringent safety and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Defense Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectDefense EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Security Clearances often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Systems or related fields
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agencies, military projectsVarious industries including aerospace, IT, manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military sectorsBroad industry use, including defense, tech, and aerospace
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for technical and security aspectsCompared for project management and system integration skills

Defense Engineers focus on designing and developing military and defense systems, often requiring security clearances and working within defense sectors. Systems Engineers have a broader role in integrating complex systems across various industries, including defense, but with less emphasis on security clearances. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in industry focus and project scope.

How much do defense engineers get paid?

Defense engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in systems, cybersecurity, or missile defense can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Defense Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Defense Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Defense Engineer job openings:

Defense Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

AEGIS Based Defense Software Engineer

Parsons Corporation

Dahlgren, VA • On-site

$103K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Parsons rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 452 rated engineering

Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!
At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.
Job Description:
Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented AEGIS Based Defense Software Engineer to join our team! In this role you will be part of a talented and mission oriented professional team of federal engineers, active-duty Naval Officers and Contract staff who are willing to roll up their sleeves and get missile defense capability out to the Fleet. You will also be part of a team of some of the best and brightest Engineers and scientists our country has to offer.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Address emerging Next Generation Missile Defense threats and capabilities, significant upgrades are required for the SM-6 software; these software upgrades encompass advanced targeting algorithms, enhanced flight profile optimizations for engaging advanced threats, and upgraded datalink processing to ensure seamless fire control integration.
  • Support the SM-6 Round Lead, in design, development, testing, and integration of software for the missile and its incorporation into the Aegis Under Layer while retaining compatibility with the ship-based Aegis Weapon System & land-based Aegis Guam System.
  • Oversight of design, development, and implementation of software solutions for missile guidance, navigation, and control systems including the upgrade of missile guidance laws, feedback control logic, six-degree-of-freedom (6DOF) flight simulations, and real-time sensor data processing.
  • Contributes to software architecture design, requirements analysis, detailed design, and code reviews.
  • Supports Aegis Under Layer, Aegis Weapon System, and Aegis Guam System integration & testing activities.
  • Participates in flight tests and data analysis.
  • Manages technical meetings and design reviews for software activities, including MDA Engineering Technical Reviews.
  • Oversees the progress of development sprints and managing backlogs.
  • Defines long-term technical strategies and architectural roadmaps.
  • Supports analysis of Real Word Events and observations that lead to required software changes / updates.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:
  • US Citizenship with Active Secret Clearance
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or an equivalent technical/scientific discipline degree related to area of specialty
    (NOTE: Newly-hired PhD graduates are typically hired into this level.)
  • 5+ years of related professional experience
  • Mastery of MS Office suite and familiarity with collaborative tools such as Jira, Confluence or Teams
  • Missile System Experience

What Desired Skills You'll Bring:
  • Bachelor's Degree in STEM Field
  • 7+ Years experience
  • Active TS/SCI Clearance
  • Prior experience with Weapons Systems Deployment
  • Experience with Missile Systems Engineering
  • Technical experience in one of the following areas: Fleet operations, systems engineering, missile systems, Aegis Qualifications, etc.

Security Clearance Requirement:
An active Secret security clearance is required for this position.
This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.
The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what's next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.
Salary Range: $103,500.00 - $181,100.00
We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!
Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.
We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!
Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer to https://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.

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