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Sensor Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Engineer

Indian Head, MD · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

Chemical Engineer The Opportunity: Are you looking for an opportunity to combine your technical ... You understand how a sensor performs in the field is just as important as how it performs on the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sensor Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$49.8K

$120.5K

$196.5K

How much do sensor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for sensor engineer in Washington is $120,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,100.00 and $150,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Sensor Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, signal processing, and sensor technologies, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, data acquisition systems, programming languages like C/C++, and relevant certifications such as Certified Measurement and Control Technician are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this field. These skills are crucial for designing reliable sensor systems, troubleshooting complex issues, and ensuring seamless integration into larger engineering projects.

What are Sensor Engineers?

Sensor Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain sensors and sensor systems used to detect and measure physical properties such as temperature, pressure, motion, or chemical composition. They work in various industries including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and electronics to ensure sensors function accurately and reliably. Their responsibilities often include selecting materials, integrating sensors with electronic systems, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing sensor performance for specific applications.

What are some common challenges Sensor Engineers face when integrating new sensor technologies into existing systems?

Sensor Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new sensors and legacy hardware or software, managing data integrity amidst increased data streams, and addressing calibration or environmental factors that may impact sensor accuracy. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including software developers and hardware engineers, is frequently required to troubleshoot integration issues and optimize system performance. Staying updated with rapidly evolving sensor technologies and industry standards is also essential for successful implementation.

What is the difference between Sensor Engineer vs Electronics Engineer?

AspectSensor EngineerElectronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or related fields; certifications varyBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related fields; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsDesign firms, manufacturing plants, R&D departments
Industry UsageDeveloping and testing sensors for various applicationsDesigning electronic systems, circuit boards, and devices
Common Search/ComparisonSensor Engineer vs Electronics Engineer

Sensor Engineers focus on designing, developing, and testing sensors used in various industries, while Electronics Engineers work on designing electronic circuits and systems. Both roles require a background in electrical engineering and often collaborate in product development, but Sensor Engineers specialize in sensor technology specifically.

What job categories do people searching Sensor Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Sensor Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Sensor Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Sensor Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Sensor Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,492 per year, or $57.9 per hour.
Sensor System Engineer (SE)/Digital Engineer (DE)

Sensor System Engineer (SE)/Digital Engineer (DE)

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)

Laurel, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 59 rated research


Job description

Description

Are you passionate about applying your system engineering/digital engineering skills to develop solutions for some of our nation’s most pressing challenges?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking a creative, collaborative systems engineer to help us lead the development and integration of sophisticated sensor systems using digital engineering and model-based systems engineering (MBSE). As a member of the Sensor Systems Engineering Group, you will  apply methods, processes, and guidelines to DE/MBSE tools and improve interoperability between analysis tools and models. You will assist in establishing and communicating standards for use of MBSE, technical contributions and collaboration, provide technical direction and ensure timeliness, quality and technical integrity of work. Come be a part of a talented team of engineers and scientists striving to build the next generation sensor systems.

As a Systems Engineer, your duties will include;

  • Cultivating your systems and digital engineering capabilities through training and collaboration with other SEs, DEs, and MBSE modelers.
  • Identifying and deploying methods, processes, and guidelines to develop artifacts as part of the capability development process.
  • Participating on teams working to advance the capabilities of crucial sensor and surveillance systems; You will leverage DE capabilities to analyze and assess existing and proposed systems (system-of-systems) and platforms.
  • Delivering presentations to sponsors and working groups to effectively communicate proposed concepts, solutions, and analysis findings. 
  • Collaborating with engineers and scientists in a multidisciplinary team environment to develop digital engineering products.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Have a B.S. degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science or another related field
  • Have a minimum of 5 years of relevant systems engineering experience
  • Have a strong understanding of systems engineering principles and practices.
  • Have at least three years of hands-on MBSE experience.
  • Possess knowledge of digital engineering and systems engineering modeling techniques and methodologies.
  • Are familiar with systems engineering frameworks such as DODAF and UAF.
  • Have the ability to analyze sophisticated problems and develop innovative solutions, especially in system architecture and integration.
  • Possess strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with all levels of staff. Excellent organizational, follow through, and attention to detail skills. Ability to effectively communicate, orally and in writing.
  • Have the ability and willingness to travel to work with prime contractors and Government Labs.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Possess a Master's degree (or higher) in engineering, systems engineering, computer science, mathematics, or another related field.
  • Have a minimum of 10 years of relevant systems engineering experience
  • Have a minimum of 5 years of hands-on MBSE experience.
  • Can demonstrate proficiency in using modeling tools and software, such as Cameo Systems Modeler, Sparx Enterprise Architect, Capella, Visual Paradigm, or IBM Engineering Systems Rational Rhapsody.
  • Have knowledge of ship-based sensor systems and communications networks
  • Possess competence in using software tools for analysis, simulation, and validation, such as MATLAB/Simulink or other domain-specific software.
  • Have strong analytical skills for requirements analysis, risk assessment, and performance analysis of systems.
  • Have relevant certifications from recognized professional engineering and MBSE organizations.
  • Currently hold a secret or higher level security clearance.

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About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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