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Defense Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Karman Space & Defense

Design Engineer II

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical ... The Design Engineer contributes to the conceptualization, development, testing, and deployment of ...

Karman Space & Defense

Design Engineer II+

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical ... The Design Engineer contributes to the conceptualization, development, testing, and deployment of ...

Karman Space & Defense

Design Engineer II

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Design Engineer II Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its ...

Karman Space & Defense

Design Engineer I

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Design Engineer Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its ...

Karman Space & Defense

Design Engineer I

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Design Engineer Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its ...

Karman Space & Defense

Systems Engineer III

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical ... In this role, you provide technical oversight and systems engineering leadership across ...

Karman Space & Defense

Senior Test Engineer

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical ... Assists program managers and project engineers in meeting customer objectives on time and within ...

Karman Space & Defense

Electrical Engineer II

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$105 - $130/hr

Electrical Engineer II Full Time Mukilteo, WA, US 7 days ago Requisition ID: 3784 Salary Range: $105,000.00 To $130,000.00 Annually Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development ...

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Karman Space & Defense

Senior Design Engineer

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical ... You guide engineering activities, support new business pursuits, and mentor junior engineers while ...

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All JobsDefense Engineer JobsDefense Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

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 Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Defense Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Defense Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 79% In-person, and 21% Remote job distribution.

Development Engineer I

Karman Space & Defense

Mukilteo, WA • On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Karman Space & Defense rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Hypersonics and Strategic Missile Defense business, which designs, develops, and delivers highly dependable missile systems for hypersonic and strategic missile defense missions. We provide integrated, mission-ready hardware that brings together multiple technologies into unified systems engineered to perform in demanding operational environments. Our tip-to-tail capabilities include payload protection and deployment systems, propulsion systems, aerodynamic interstage systems, separation systems, missile subsystems, shroud systems, launch systems, and payload integration solutions.

The Development Engineer contributes to the design, development, testing, and deployment of advanced aerospace and defense mechanical systems. This role supports all phases of product development—from concept through full-scale execution—by assisting with analysis, prototyping, design verification testing, and demonstration efforts. Working as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team, the Development Engineer helps turn emerging technologies into proven solutions for critical military and aerospace applications.

Responsibilities

  • Supports engineering project planning and execution for mechanical system development.
  • Assists with meeting customer goals on schedule and within budget while ensuring high standards for accuracy and completeness.
  • Contributes to test planning and execution, including test design, analysis, procedure development, data collection, data reduction, and report writing.
  • Supports business development and project performance activities to meet customer needs.
  • Collaborates with technical staff during proposal development and program execution.
  • Demonstrates enthusiasm for the aerospace industry and effectively supports work in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering, or equivalent relevant experience and registration.
  • Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals.
  • Basic understanding of data acquisition systems and instrumentation.
  • Basic understanding of SolidWorks and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering.
  • Typically, 0–3 years of aerospace or defense experience.
  • Knowledge of military and commercial specifications.

A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
  • Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
  • Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

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