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Ship Self Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

SSDS Test Engineer The candidate will support Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare System (PEO IWS) Ship Self Defense Integrated Combat System (SSDS ICS) Combat Systems Test and Evaluation in ...

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

SSDS Test Engineer The candidate will support Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare System (PEO IWS) Ship Self Defense Integrated Combat System (SSDS ICS) Combat Systems Test and Evaluation in ...

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Ship Self Defense information

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$72K

$185.6K

$247K

How much do ship self defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for ship self defense in the United States is $185,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $173,500.00 and $209,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Ship Self Defense roles, and why are they important?

To excel in Ship Self Defense, individuals typically need a background in naval operations, weapons systems, and maritime security, often supported by military training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with radar, electronic countermeasure systems, and shipboard weapon control technologies is crucial. Strong situational awareness, teamwork, and decisive communication skills help ensure effective threat response and coordination with crew. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining the safety and operational integrity of naval vessels in potentially hostile environments.

What is ship self defense?

Ship self defense refers to the systems, strategies, and measures implemented on naval or commercial vessels to protect them from various threats, such as missiles, aircraft, submarines, and small boats. These defenses can include advanced radar, electronic countermeasures, close-in weapon systems (CIWS), and trained personnel ready to respond to potential attacks. Ship self defense is crucial for ensuring the safety of the vessel, its crew, and its mission, especially in hostile or contested maritime environments.

What is the difference between Ship Self Defense vs Marine Security Officer?

AspectShip Self DefenseMarine Security Officer
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Security Training, Maritime Security CertificationsSecurity Guard License, Maritime Security Certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, maritime portsPorts, ships, maritime facilities
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, maritime industrySecurity firms, maritime security providers

Ship Self Defense specialists focus on protecting ships from threats at sea, utilizing maritime security protocols and onboard security measures. Marine Security Officers also work in maritime environments but often have broader security duties, including port security and access control. Both roles require maritime security certifications and work within the maritime industry, but Ship Self Defense is more specialized in onboard ship protection.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Ship Self Defense roles and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working in Ship Self Defense often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving maritime threats and maintaining proficiency with advanced defense systems. Continuous training and regular simulations are essential to stay updated on the latest technologies and procedures. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including bridge personnel and operations staff, are crucial for ensuring quick and coordinated responses. Building strong teamwork skills and maintaining a proactive learning attitude can help overcome these challenges and contribute to mission success.
Infographic showing various Ship Self Defense job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $185,569 per year, or $89.2 per hour.
Ship Self Defense Systems Trainer

Ship Self Defense Systems Trainer

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Virginia Beach, VA

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.


  • Develops; organizes; and conducts training and educational programs for Fleet sailors in support of Center for Surface Combat Systems Unit in Dam Neck. 
  • Conduct traditional classroom instruction and support laboratory training.
  • Serves as a Senior Instructor to train Ship’s Self Defense System (SSDS) operators and technicians
  • Provide subject matter expertise in support of curriculum development and delivery of other CSCS courses supporting the operational employment of SSDS.
  • Provides dynamic teaching & training as well as assessments that require advanced knowledge of U.S. Navy Ship’s Self Defense Systems Capabilitidaes and Limitations.
  • Reviews and analyzes U.S. Navy SSDS Engineering Capabilities and Limitations and U.S. Navy Operational and Tactical doctrine.
  • Observes and assesses contemporaries during Practice and Certification Teaches.
  • Prepares; reviews; and customizes curriculum lesson plans and instructor guide in support of traditional classroom teaching.
  • Supports Course Reviews and Curriculum Updates; conducts training gap analysis provides formal feedback and recommendation for Course improvement.
  • Documents the training conducted with specifics of the individual areas / watch station and is responsible for generation of a formal assessment of measure of success.
  • Develops; tests; maintains; and delivers moderately complex SSDS training programs.
  • Establishes and reviews course content and objectives.
  • Conducts training sessions and develops criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of training activities.
  • Maintains records of training activities; participant progress; and program effectiveness.
  • Maintains current knowledge of relevant technologies as assigned
 

  • High school diploma
  • Active Secret Clearance
  • At least six (6) of experience:
    • As a SSDS technician-supervisor, or a senior Fire Controlman with responsibility for teaching the applicable system or function task to others in a journeyman level training environment.
    • Tactical Data Links (TDL) and Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) operation and integration is required
    • Of the five (5) years, one (1) year of experience as an instructor in a Navy Training Environment, to include curriculum maintenance, writing learning objectives, preparing test items, evaluating instructional materials and counseling students on academic learning problems is required.
    • Will accept technical certification credit for military experience, where possible

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $70,000.00/Yr. - USD $90,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.
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