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Skunkworks Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ford Motor

Staff Mechanical Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

... skunkworks team. The result: a simple, efficient, flexible ecosystem to deliver a family of ... Advanced EV's Design Concept Engineering team is looking for a Staff Mechanical Engineer to join ...

Aegis AI

AI Alchemist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

You will act as a surrogate for the CEO in key technical and strategic initiatives, lead skunkworks engineering projects, build the v0 of new AI agents, and ensure the leadership team is pushing the ...

Amplitude

Senior AI Product Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

There's no engineering vs. product fences here - everyone is a product owner. • Shipping features ... or skunkworks team and thrived in uncertainty • You've built agents using frameworks like ...

Amplitude

Senior AI Product Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

There's no engineering vs. product fences here - everyone is a product owner. • Shipping features ... or skunkworks team and thrived in uncertainty • You've built agents using frameworks like ...

Amplitude

Senior AI Product Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

There's no engineering vs. product fences here - everyone is a product owner. • Shipping features ... or skunkworks team and thrived in uncertainty • You've built agents using frameworks like ...

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Skunkworks Engineer information

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$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do skunkworks engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 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.

What is a skunkworks engineer?

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.

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.

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.
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Skunkworks Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Skunkworks Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Skunkworks Fabrication Manufacturing Engineer at Lockheed Martin Palmdale, CA

Payfuture Technologies

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Skunkworks Fabrication Manufacturing Engineer at Lockheed Martin. Palmdale, CA.

Overview

As a Skunk, Manufacturing Engineer you are a visionary, looking beyond today’s challenges, seeing far into the future and identifying capability gaps. You are passionate and love a challenge, with an honest commitment to advancing the state of flight and technology.

Responsibilities
  • Create and administer manufacturing plans for make and buy parts.
  • Develop materials masters and planning tracking mechanisms.
  • Work cross‑functionally with design engineering, systems engineering, build team, planning, scheduling, and quality assurance.
  • Support composite fabrication including lay‑up, bonding, and machining.
  • Interpret engineering blueprints, process specifications and manufacturing plans.
  • Utilize MRP, SAP or other MES applications.
Basic Qualifications
  • Experience in a manufacturing shop floor environment with cross‑function collaboration.
  • Knowledge of composite fabrication (lay‑up, bonding, machining).
  • Proficiency with engineering blueprints, process specs and manufacturing planning.
  • Experience with MRP, SAP or MES.
  • Secret clearance with investigation within last 5 years.
  • Special program access prior to start.
Desired Skills
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Manufacturing Engineering or related technical field.
  • Understanding of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM).
  • Experience coordinating full life‑cycle projects from conception to delivery.
  • Effective communication and collaboration with Operations, Production Control, QA, IT, Planning and Engineering.
  • Capability to drive issues to closure and develop preventive action plans.
  • Ability to solve logistical issues and lead efforts to drive mission success.
  • Experience working with suppliers in an aircraft modification and manufacturing environment.
  • Special Program Access.
Security Clearance

US Citizen required. Secret clearance with investigation or CV within 5 years.

Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short‑Term Disability, Long‑Term Disability.
  • 401(k) match and flexible spending accounts.
  • Employee Assistance Program, Education Assistance, Parental Leave.
  • Paid time off, holidays, and parental leave.
Equal Opportunity Employer

Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.

Application Window

Application window will close in 90 days. Applicants encouraged to apply within 5‑30 days of requisition posting.

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