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Skunkworks Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lockheed Martin

Software Engineer Stf

Fort Worth, TX

$99K - $134K/yr

... Skunkworks Mission Systems. We play a pivotal role in delivering software that's ready for the ... What You'll Do As a Software Integration Engineer, you'll guide the technology development ...

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$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do skunkworks engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for skunkworks engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to get a job at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works?

Securing a Skunk Works engineer position at Lockheed Martin is highly competitive due to the specialized nature of the work and the high security clearance requirements. Candidates typically need a strong background in aerospace engineering, advanced technical skills, and relevant experience, often including security clearance eligibility and a track record of innovation. The hiring process involves multiple interviews, technical assessments, and background checks, making it a challenging but attainable goal for qualified professionals.

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

To thrive as a Skunkworks Engineer, you need advanced expertise in engineering disciplines such as aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in rapid prototyping. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and secure collaboration platforms is crucial, along with security clearances for classified projects. Creativity, problem-solving, and the ability to work discreetly under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for driving innovation and delivering breakthrough solutions in highly confidential, fast-paced environments.

How much does a systems engineer make at Skunk Works level 3?

A Skunk Works level 3 systems engineer typically earns between $120,000 and $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific responsibilities. These roles often require advanced technical skills, security clearances, and familiarity with aerospace or defense projects.

What are Skunkworks Engineers?

Skunkworks Engineers are specialized professionals who work on highly secretive and innovative projects, often within aerospace, defense, or advanced technology companies. The term 'Skunkworks' comes from Lockheed Martin’s famous Advanced Development Programs, known for fast-paced, cutting-edge innovation outside traditional company processes. These engineers are responsible for rapid prototyping, problem-solving, and developing breakthrough technologies, usually under strict confidentiality. Working as a Skunkworks Engineer often involves multidisciplinary collaboration, creative thinking, and the ability to operate with minimal supervision. The role is ideal for those who thrive in challenging, unconventional environments.

Is Skunk Works still active?

Skunk Works is a division of Lockheed Martin responsible for advanced aerospace projects. It remains active today, continuing to develop cutting-edge aircraft and technology for defense and aerospace applications. Engineers working there often require security clearances and specialized skills in aeronautics and systems engineering.

How much do engineers at Skunk Works make?

Skunk Works engineers, who work on advanced aerospace projects, typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually depending on experience, education, and security clearance. Senior engineers and specialists with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses and health insurance.

What are some unique challenges Skunkworks Engineers face when working on highly confidential projects?

Skunkworks Engineers often work on cutting-edge, confidential projects that require strict adherence to security protocols and limited information sharing, even within their own company. This can present challenges such as restricted access to resources, limited collaboration outside of the core team, and the need to rapidly prototype solutions under tight deadlines. Additionally, the fast-paced and secretive environment demands adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive under ambiguity. However, these challenges are balanced by the opportunity to work on innovative technologies and make significant impacts within the organization.
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Skunkworks Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Skunkworks Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 1% As Needed, 26% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 63% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Mechanical Design Engineer Sr - Skunkworks

Mechanical Design Engineer Sr - Skunkworks

Lockheed Martin

Palmdale, CA

$134K - $184K/yr

Other

Posted 24 days ago

Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 384 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

You will be the Mechanical Design Engineer Sr - Skunkworks for the Skunkworks team which is responsible for ...


What You Will Be Doing


As the Mechanical Design Engineer Sr - Skunkworks you will be responsible for delivering highimpact mechanical designs that enable nextgeneration electromagnetic and RF systems.


Your responsibilities will include:



  • Design electromagnetic/RF components and antennas.

  • Develop radomes and support structures for flightqualified hardware.

  • Engineer composite and metallic components/structures.

  • Create fullscale RCS/RF test fixtures.

  • Provide technical support for classified activities.


What's In It For You


We are committed to supporting your worklife balance and overall wellbeing, offering flexible scheduling options. Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package here. Do you want to be part of a company culture that empowers employees to think big, lead with a growth mindset, and make the impossible a reality? We provide the resources and give you the flexibility to enable inspiration and focus - if you have the passion and courage to dream big, work hard, and have fun doing what you love then we want to build a better tomorrow with you.


Who You Are


You are a seasoned mechanical design professional with deep expertise in RF and electromagnetic hardware. You thrive in fastpaced, highly classified environments and bring a collaborative, solutionfocused mindset. Your experience with composite and metallic structures, as well as test fixture development, positions you to make immediate impact on cuttingedge projects.


Further Information About This Opportunity


MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN -This position is located at a facility that requiresspecial access. The selected candidate must be able to obtain a secretclearance.

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About Lockheed Martin

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As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912

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