ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defense Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Owl Cyber Defense

Systems Test Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

Hybrid Owl Cyber Defense is a leader and trusted partner in cyber security. We deliver solutions that protect and connect the world's most critical networks. Owl's product lines of cross domain, data ...

Owl Cyber Defense

Systems Test Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site +1

Hybrid Owl Cyber Defense is a leader and trusted partner in cyber security. We deliver solutions that protect and connect the world's most critical networks. Owl's product lines of cross domain, data ...

Redhat

Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$96K - $154K/yr

Practice defensive programming to deliver stable and high-quality software for Red Hat customers and upstream communities. * Communicate and collaborate with developers and teams inside and outside ...

Red Hat, LLC

Senior Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$118.60 - $195.68/hr

Practice defensive programming to deliver stable and high‑quality software for RedHat customers and upstream communities. * Communicate and collaborate with developers and teams inside and outside ...

Redhat

Senior Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$118K - $195K/yr

Practice defensive programming to deliver stable and high-quality software for Red Hat customers and upstream communities. * Communicate and collaborate with developers and teams inside and outside ...

CoVar

Software Engineer

Durham, NC

Software Engineer About CoVar CoVar is a small, mission-driven AI/ML R&D software company based in ... We build advanced software and machine learning systems that help the Department of Defense detect ...

Analog Devices

FPGA Systems Development Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$125K - $161K/yr

ADI's Aerospace, Defense and Communication (ADEF & COM) business is focused on three (3) key areas ... Our diverse engineering community is a recognized leader providing forward thinking designs that ...

Analogdevices

FPGA Systems Development Engineer

Durham, NC

$125K - $161K/yr

ADI's Aerospace, Defense and Communication (ADEF & COM) business is focused on three (3) key areas ... Our diverse engineering community is a recognized leader providing forward thinking designs that ...

Anduril Industries

Manufacturing Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$57K - $112K/yr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... Anduril's Manufacturing team is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to join our team to support ...

Vadum, Inc.

Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... defense research and development. If you're passionate about innovation and want to make a ... Position Summary Vadum is seeking a talented Software Engineer to join our growing engineering team.

Analogdevices

FPGA Systems Development Engineer

Durham, NC

$125K - $161K/yr

ADI's Aerospace, Defense and Communication (ADEF & COM) business is focused on three (3) key areas ... Our diverse engineering community is a recognized leader providing forward thinking designs that ...

Vadum Inc

Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... defense research and development. If you're passionate about innovation and want to make a ... Position Summary Vadum is seeking a talented Software Engineer to join our growing engineering team.

Vadum Inc

Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... defense research and development. If you're passionate about innovation and want to make a ... Position Summary Vadum is seeking a talented Software Engineer to join our growing engineering team.

Vadum Inc.

Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC

... defense research and development. If you're passionate about innovation and want to make a ... Position Summary Vadum is seeking a talented Software Engineer to join our growing engineering team.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDefense Engineer JobsDefense Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Defense Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$35.3K

$101.7K

$157.6K

How much do defense engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense engineer in Raleigh, NC is $101,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,909.00 and $126,138.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC?

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

What job categories do people searching Defense Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

Defense Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,707 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Systems Test Engineer

Owl Cyber Defense

Morrisville, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Systems Test Engineer Department: Engineering Reports to: Manager - Systems Test Engineering Office: Hybrid Work Environment: Hybrid
Owl Cyber Defense is a leader and trusted partner in cyber security. We deliver solutions that protect and connect the world's most critical networks. Owl's product lines of cross domain, data diode, and portable media solutions provide the strongest available security checkpoints for threat prevention and secure data availability. Our in-depth expertise in security engineering at the operating system level enables us to help government and commercial customers meet ever-evolving cyber security threats.
Job Summary:
The Systems Test Engineer - Automation & Performance plays a key role in ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of cross-domain networking and filtering devices. This role focuses on building automated test solutions, executing performance benchmarks, and supporting the validation of systems that control and secure data flows across security boundaries.
The ideal candidate is a skilled software developer who is passionate about technology, enjoys solving complex problems, and thrives in a small, tightly knit engineering team where collaboration, ownership, and hands-on contribution are essential.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Performance Benchmarking
  • Plan and execute performance, throughput, latency, and stress testing
  • Establish and maintain performance baselines for cross-domain devices
  • Identify performance risks related to data volume, protocol complexity, and system configuration
  • Analyze and communicate performance results and trends
Test Automation and Quality Engineering
  • Design, develop, and maintain automated test solutions for cross-domain networking and filtering systems
  • Support automated functional, integration, and system-level testing
  • Increase automation coverage to reduce reliance on manual testing
  • Verify correct enforcement of filtering rules, data handling, and protocol behavior
Collaboration and Team Engagement
  • Work closely with developers, systems engineers, and test team members in a small, collaborative environment
  • Participate in design, requirement, and test reviews
  • Share ideas, raise quality concerns early, and contribute to continuous improvement
  • Take ownership of assigned work and support team success

Requirements/Qualifications:
  • Education
    • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience
  • Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
    • Proven track record of innovating with Python, Ansible, Java, or bash (any or all).
    • Solid understanding and experience with Network (Routing/Switching) Architecture and troubleshooting
    • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
    • Familiarity with performance or load testing concepts (preferred)
    • Experience working with Linux-based systems (preferred)
    • Understanding of networking protocols and data flow concepts (preferred)
    • Experience working in secure, regulated, or controlled environments (preferred)
    • Experience Packet Capture and Playback automation (preferred)
  • Additional Competencies/Requirements
    • Genuine enthusiasm for technology and engineering
    • Enjoyment of hands-on work and learning new systems
    • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
    • Clear written and verbal communication skills
    • Ability to collaborate effectively in small, tightly knit teams
    • Candidates must be able to obtain/maintain a US Government security clearance

About Owl Cyber Defense Solutions, LLC
Owl Cyber Defense Solutions, LLC is a fast-growing cybersecurity solutions company, holding a firm leadership position in network security and secure information transfer. It is a privately-owned US company with offices in Columbia, MD, Danbury, CT and Morrisville, NC. For more information, see ;br>
Owl Cyber Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal employment laws and regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Apply