1

Industrial Systems Engineering Jobs in Washington

next page

Showing results 1-20

Industrial Systems Engineering information

See Washington salary details

$40.8K

$94.6K

$131.4K

How much do industrial systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for industrial systems engineering in Washington is $94,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $107,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is industrial systems engineering?

Industrial systems engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on designing, improving, and integrating complex systems involving people, materials, information, equipment, and energy. Industrial systems engineers optimize processes and systems to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and more. They use principles from mathematics, engineering, and management to analyze and solve problems, ensuring that systems operate effectively and efficiently. This field is crucial for organizations aiming to streamline operations and improve productivity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an industrial systems engineer?

To thrive as an Industrial Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in systems engineering, process optimization, and industrial operations, typically supported by a degree in industrial, systems, or manufacturing engineering. Familiarity with tools such as AutoCAD, Six Sigma certifications, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and drive process improvements. These competencies ensure efficiency, safety, and productivity in complex industrial environments.

How does an industrial systems engineer typically collaborate with other departments to optimize production processes?

Industrial Systems Engineers frequently work cross-functionally with departments such as production, quality assurance, logistics, and IT. They analyze workflow data, identify inefficiencies, and implement process improvements by coordinating with team leads and subject matter experts. Regular meetings and project reviews are common to ensure all stakeholders are aligned on objectives and progress. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and enables successful integration of new technologies or methods throughout the production system.

What is the difference between Industrial Systems Engineering vs Industrial Engineering?

AspectIndustrial Systems EngineeringIndustrial Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Industrial Systems Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Industrial Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and technology sectors focusing on complex systemsManufacturing, process improvement, and operations across various industries
Employer & Industry UsageCompanies seeking to optimize large-scale systems and processesOrganizations aiming to improve efficiency and productivity in operations

Industrial Systems Engineering and Industrial Engineering share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often overlapping in manufacturing and process optimization. However, Industrial Systems Engineering tends to focus more on complex system integration and technology-driven solutions, while Industrial Engineering emphasizes process improvement and efficiency. Both roles are vital in industries aiming to enhance operational performance.

What careers can industrial systems engineers do?

Industrial systems engineers can pursue careers in manufacturing, logistics, supply chain management, quality assurance, and operations analysis. They often work in environments that require process optimization, data analysis, and the use of tools like simulation software and lean methodologies.

What does an industrial systems engineer do?

An industrial systems engineer designs, analyzes, and improves complex manufacturing and service systems to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality. They use tools like process modeling, data analysis, and optimization techniques, often working with software such as CAD or simulation programs in manufacturing or logistics environments.

What job categories do people searching Industrial Systems Engineering jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Industrial Systems Engineering jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Industrial Systems Engineering job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,569 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Unmanned Systems Industrial Base Analyst

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

ANSER is seeking an Unmanned Systems Industrial Base Analyst to support the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy (IBP). In this role, you will provide technical and strategic expertise to assess unmanned systems technologies, evaluate industrial base investments, and deliver data-driven recommendations that strengthen manufacturing capabilities, supply chain resilience, and defense modernization efforts. This position may be based at ANSER Headquarters in Arlington, VA, the Mark Center in Alexandria, VA, or via telework within the National Capital Region.

This position requires up to 50% travel.ย 

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

  • Serve as the Project Lead for initiatives supporting unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), loitering munitions, autonomous weapons, precision strike systems, and related technologies.
  • Assess the U.S. and allied industrial base supporting UAS manufacturing, propulsion systems, sensors, guidance systems, payloads, and munitions.
  • Evaluate technology maturity, manufacturing readiness, production capacity, supply chain risks, and industrial constraints impacting critical defense programs.
  • Analyze emerging threats and technology trends related to autonomous systems, AI-enabled targeting, swarming technologies, and next-generation kinetic capabilities.
  • Develop acquisition strategies, investment recommendations, and industrial base expansion initiatives supporting unmanned systems.
  • Monitor project execution by tracking cost, schedule, and performance while providing oversight of contract awardees.
  • Coordinate with DoD Components, industry partners, national laboratories, academia, and other Government stakeholders to identify capability gaps and transition technologies into production.
  • Support requirements development, technical evaluations, program reviews, and defense acquisition activities.
  • Monitor domestic and foreign advancements in unmanned systems and recommend actions to strengthen U.S. competitive advantage.
  • Prepare executive briefings, strategic assessments, decision memoranda, Congressional support materials, and other analytical products for senior leadership.
  • Respond to executive taskings and Requests for Information (RFIs), documenting meeting minutes and action items as required.
  • Conduct outreach activities, site visits, and strategic engagements while serving as a trusted technical advisor to Government leadership.

Required Qualifications

  • Active SECRET security clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a TOP SECRET clearance.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Defense Studies, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Minimum of eight (8) years of experience supporting DoD acquisition, unmanned systems, defense technology, or industrial base programs.
  • Minimum of eight (8) years of hands-on experience in industrial manufacturing or research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E), including experience with manufacturing production site facilitization or product lifecycle management/engineering.
  • Demonstrated expertise in UAS platforms, autonomous systems, kinetic effects, precision-guided munitions, and Counter-UAS technologies.
  • Experience analyzing defense industrial base capabilities, manufacturing readiness, technology transition, and supply chain resilience.
  • Knowledge of the DoD Adaptive Acquisition Framework, Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) process, and defense acquisition processes.
  • Direct experience supporting hardware development or sustainment within a U.S. Military Service, Major Command, Office of the Secretary of War-level organization, or industrial organization (Defense Industrial Base experience preferred).
  • Strong analytical, technical writing, and executive briefing skills with the ability to communicate complex technical issues to senior leadership.
  • Proven ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Defense Studies, or a related technical discipline.
  • Experience supporting the Office of the Secretary of War, Military Services, or Defense Industrial Base programs.
  • Familiarity with the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program, Defense Production Act (DPA), and critical technology initiatives.
  • Knowledge of autonomous systems, artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML), advanced propulsion, electronic warfare, precision weapons, and emerging defense technologies.
  • DAWIA/Defense Acquisition Workforce certification or equivalent acquisition experience.
  • Experience briefing and advising senior military leaders, including Flag and General Officers.
  • Knowledge of systems engineering, scientific analysis, and program analysis methodologies applied to unmanned systems and advanced manufacturing programs.
  • Experience leading project implementation while managing cost, schedule, and performance objectives.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), or equivalent professional certification.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher with demonstrated process improvement experience.