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Defense Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bridge Defense

Data Scientist

Washington, DC · On-site

About Bridge Defense Bridge Defense is redefining how modern defense technology is delivered. Based ... scientific analysis, cutting‑edge cyber defense, and intelligence analysis. We are led by ...

Bridge Defense

Data Scientist

Washington, DC · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

About Bridge Defense. Bridge Defense is redefining how modern defense technology is delivered ... scientific analysis, cutting-edge cyber defense, and intelligence analysis. We are led by ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Falls Church, VA · On-site

Agile Defense is a company focused on supporting the nation's important missions through advanced technologies. They are seeking a Data Scientist to design, develop, and deploy AI-enabled data ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $155K/yr

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: Washington, D.C. Clearance Level: Top Secret with the ability to obtain an ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges require new solutions ... Requisition Requisition #: 1424 Title Data Scientist / Engineer Clearance Top Secret clearance ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Falls Church, VA

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA \u007C Ft. Meade, MD \u007C Stuttgart, Baden ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Annsville, NY · On-site

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA | Ft. Meade, MD | Stuttgart, Baden-Wurttemberg ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA | Ft. Meade, MD | Stuttgart, Baden-Wurttemberg ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Scott Air Force Base, IL · On-site

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA | Ft. Meade, MD | Stuttgart, Baden-Wurttemberg ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Omaha, NE

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA \u007C Ft. Meade, MD \u007C Stuttgart, Baden ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Colorado Springs, CO

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA \u007C Ft. Meade, MD \u007C Stuttgart, Baden ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Doral, FL

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA \u007C Ft. Meade, MD \u007C Stuttgart, Baden ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Fort George G Meade, MD

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA \u007C Ft. Meade, MD \u007C Stuttgart, Baden ...

Agile Defense

Data Scientist

Falls Church, VA · On-site

About Agile Defense At Agile Defense we know that action defines the outcome and new challenges ... Data Scientist Location: In Person: Falls Church, VA | Ft. Meade, MD | Stuttgart, Baden-Wurttemberg ...

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Defense Scientist information

What is a defense scientist?

Defense Scientists are professionals who conduct research and develop technologies to enhance national security and defense capabilities. They work in fields such as physics, engineering, chemistry, and computer science to create solutions for military applications, including weapons systems, surveillance tools, and protective equipment. Defense Scientists may be employed by government agencies, military branches, or private defense contractors, and their work often involves collaboration with other scientists and military personnel. Their research helps to ensure that a country's defense systems are effective, up-to-date, and capable of addressing emerging threats.

What types of projects and collaborations does a defense scientist typically work on?

As a Defense Scientist, you can expect to work on multidisciplinary projects that address national security challenges, such as developing advanced materials, cybersecurity solutions, or detection technologies. Collaboration is frequent with engineers, military personnel, analysts, and sometimes external partners like universities or private industry. Projects are often fast-paced and require adaptability to shifting priorities, with regular opportunities for cross-functional teamwork. You'll contribute both to fundamental research and its practical application, enhancing your expertise while supporting mission-critical objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense scientist?

To thrive as a Defense Scientist, you need a solid background in scientific research, data analysis, and a relevant advanced degree such as physics, engineering, or computer science. Familiarity with specialized defense technologies, modeling and simulation software, and security clearance requirements is often essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and convey complex findings clearly. These skills are crucial for developing innovative solutions that address national security challenges and ensure mission success.

What is the difference between Defense Scientist vs Materials Scientist?

AspectDefense ScientistMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, physics, or related fields; security clearance often requiredBachelor's or higher in materials science, chemistry, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, defense contractorsResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, academia
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense, aerospace, government agenciesManufacturing, aerospace, academia, research institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in defense researchUnderstanding materials research and development

Defense Scientists focus on developing technologies for national security, often working within defense agencies and requiring security clearances. Materials Scientists study the properties and applications of materials, working across industries like manufacturing and aerospace. While both roles involve research and scientific expertise, Defense Scientists are specialized in defense-related projects, whereas Materials Scientists have a broader focus on material properties and innovations.

What states have the most Defense Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Defense Scientist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Defense Scientist jobs?

For Defense Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Defense Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Research Scientist / CBRN Defense Scientist

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Jacobs Management Group
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Jacobs Management Groupexternal

$43 - $62/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Research Scientist / CBRN Defense Scientist

Chantilly, VA

My client is seeking a Research Scientist to support U.S. Government efforts in chemical and biological defense and counter-proliferation from the Chantilly, VA area. This is a research and literature-analysis role, not a laboratory position, focused on tackling some of the most technically demanding questions in CW/BW defense and medical countermeasures.

Why you should apply

  • Contribute directly to national security research shaping CW/BW defense and counter-proliferation policy
  • Apply deep scientific expertise to real technical questions instead of routine lab work
  • See your technical writing put to direct, high-impact use
  • One-year assignment with standard 40-hour weeks
  • $43 to $62 per hour, based on experience

What you'll be doing

  • Read and analyze scientific literature on CW/BW defense, counter-proliferation, and medical countermeasures
  • Write technical reports on findings for U.S. Government clients
  • Conduct open- and gray-source search, discovery, acquisition, and analysis
  • Use scientific databases such as SciFinder, PubMed, and ScienceDirect
  • Work independently or in small groups as the task requires

About you

  • Be able to do the job as described.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph and U.S. citizenship required
  • Background in national security, defense, or the intelligence community

How to apply

We'd love to see your resume, but it's not required to have a conversation. Email Russ at rkikkert@jacobsmgt.com and tell me why you're interested, or apply here if you have one ready.

Apply