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Design And Development Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts

Development Engineer

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

The Development Engineer will support product development from concept through commercial release ... Design, develop, and refine mechanical components, assemblies, and systems to meet performance ...

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Design And Development Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$53.5K

$105K

$167.6K

How much do design and development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for design and development engineer in Massachusetts is $105,013.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,800.00 and $116,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, aerospace, and electrical engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications. Roles in management or with leadership responsibilities can also reach or exceed this salary level, particularly in high-demand industries or companies with competitive compensation packages.

What are Design and Development Engineers?

Design and Development Engineers are professionals who create, test, and refine products or systems, often working in fields like manufacturing, electronics, or automotive engineering. They use technical knowledge and creativity to design new products or improve existing ones, ensuring they are functional, cost-effective, and meet safety standards. Their roles often involve collaborating with other engineers, using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and overseeing the development process from concept to production. These engineers play a crucial role in turning ideas into real-world solutions.

What does a design and development engineer do?

A design and development engineer creates and improves products, systems, or components by applying engineering principles and technical skills. They conduct research, develop prototypes, analyze performance, and collaborate with teams using tools like CAD software, often working within project deadlines and quality standards.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, aerospace, and petroleum engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in technology and energy sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design and Development Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design and Development Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, a background in engineering (such as a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or related disciplines), and proficiency in product design principles. Familiarity with CAD software (like SolidWorks or AutoCAD), project management tools, and relevant industry certifications (such as Six Sigma or PMP) is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills that set top professionals apart in this role. These skills ensure the successful design, prototyping, and launch of innovative products that meet both technical and market demands.

What is the difference between Design And Development Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDesign And Development EngineerMechanical Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing new products or systemsApplying principles of mechanics to analyze, design, and improve mechanical systems
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Industrial, or related engineering; often includes CAD certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing settingsManufacturing plants, testing labs, design offices
Industry UsageProduct development, automotive, aerospace, consumer electronicsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

The main difference is that Design And Development Engineers focus on creating and refining new products and systems, while Mechanical Engineers apply mechanical principles to analyze and improve existing mechanical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping industries, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How does a Design and Development Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a product lifecycle?

Design and Development Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including manufacturing, quality assurance, and marketing, throughout a product’s lifecycle. They are often responsible for translating design concepts into prototypes, gathering feedback from stakeholders, and incorporating changes to ensure the final product meets both technical and customer requirements. Regular meetings, design reviews, and collaborative problem-solving sessions are common, making strong communication skills essential for success in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Design And Development Engineer jobs in Massachusetts? For Design And Development Engineer jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design And Development Engineer jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Design And Development Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:
Infographic showing various Design And Development Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,013 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Systems Engineer - Design & Development

Systems Engineer - Design & Development

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Pittsfield, MA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 245 rated software companies


Job description

Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering or Mathematics field, plus a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree, plus a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Must be able to obtain a Department of Defense Secret security clearance in a reasonable amount of time. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required. Candidate must be local to the area. Some telecommuting allowed.


ROLE AND POSITION OBJECTIVES

General Dynamics Mission Systems is seeking an Advanced Systems Engineer 3 to support the D5LE2 program within the SWC Fire Control engineering organization. The successful candidate will serve as a senior technical contributor, applying deep systems engineering expertise across the full system life cycle and leveraging MBSE, digital engineering, and program leadership principles to drive mission-critical outcomes in support of the U.S. Navy's strategic deterrent. This role requires strong independent judgment, the ability to guide major program milestones, and demonstrated leadership in mentoring and developing junior engineers within a complex, long-horizon program environment.

What Sets You Apart

  • Proven track record leading complex systems engineering efforts across the full development life cycle
  • Highly proficient with MBSE tools and methodologies, with experience driving model-based deliverables on real programs
  • Technical leader who mentors junior engineers and builds team capability
  • Strong communicator and negotiator who influences customer requirements and drives win-win outcomes
  • Understanding of program management principles (Earned Value, CAM, SPI/CPI) and their intersection with engineering execution
  • Strong software or computing architecture background as foundation in Systems Engineering.
  • Commitment to shaping engineering processes and tools for continuous improvement

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead systems engineering activities including requirements analysis, definition, and management, functional analysis, performance analysis, system design, trade studies, integration and test (verification), validation, and interface definition for D5LE2 subsystems and system elements
  • Drive MBSE and digital engineering strategy, developing and maintaining system architectures, models, and designs using Cameo/MagicDraw and DOORS in support of upcoming D5LE2 program milestones
  • Apply expert-level critical thinking to identify, analyze, and resolve system design weaknesses; serve as a technical decision-maker for complex engineering trade-offs
  • Perform and oversee technical planning, cost and risk analyses, and supportability and effectiveness analyses for subsystems and system elements
  • Guide the successful completion of major programs and projects; contribute to program milestone reviews and gate decisions
  • Develop and allocate system requirements to lower-level elements; lead customer requirements analysis and negotiation in alignment with D5LE2 objectives
  • Conduct detailed technical analyses; evaluate vendor products, COTS, GFE/CFE, specifications to determine feasibility and inform design decisions
  • Design complete and complex frameworks, systems, or products that set architectural direction
  • Evaluate systems to ensure designs meet governmental security specifications; lead system accreditation/certification efforts and develop security documentation
  • Support and lead Modeling and Simulation activities aligned with program objectives
  • Generate and review technical engineering products; ensure quality and compliance with standards, processes, and tools (T9001, SPALT, peer review)
  • Provide leadership, direction, and mentoring to lower-level employees; support talent development within the D5LE2 team
  • Maintain awareness of technology trends relevant to the D5LE2 mission domain and strategic deterrence
  • Identify opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation
  • Build and maintain productive internal and external working relationships with customer, program office, and cross-functional teams

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Highly proficient understanding and application of systems engineering principles, concepts, and theories in a complex, safety-critical program environment
  • Highly proficient knowledge of the system development life cycle from concept through disposal, with demonstrated experience leading all phases on a major defense or strategic weapons program
  • Highly proficient with system modeling tools (Cameo/MagicDraw, DOORS) and recognized architectural patterns (SysML, DoDAF); proven experience driving MBSE methodologies on program deliverables
  • Strong command of digital engineering concepts and their application to program workflows, model management, configuration control, and authoritative sources of truth
  • Strong background in software development, or computing architecture (distributed or cloud systems, virtual machines)
  • Expert-level critical thinking: demonstrated ability to analyze complex, multi-dimensional problems, evaluate alternatives, and independently determine and execute sound solutions
  • Highly proficient in requirements management tools and Microsoft Office applications
  • Highly proficient written and verbal communication skills; ability to present to senior leadership, customers, and cross-functional audiences
  • Understanding and application of project leadership principles including SPI/CPI, Earned Value, Cost Account Management (CAM), and Statistical Process Controls
  • Ability to build productive internal and external working relationships; effective negotiation skills with customers and stakeholders
  • Ability to sell concepts and ideas, influence direction, and drive consensus on technical approach
  • Shows initiative, exercises expert independent judgment, and professionally leads projects to completion
  • Awareness of safety and surety principles and their critical role in strategic weapons system engineering

Our Commitment to You:

  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation’s security
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:
This position is fully on-site, OR Hybrid/Flex as desired.
While on-site, you will be a part of the Pittsfield, MA campus.


This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
USD $124,397.00 - USD $138,003.00 /Yr.

General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!


Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans


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