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Weapon Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Saic

GNC Aerospace Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Support weapon system modeling and simulation, including 6 DOF (six degrees of freedom) simulation ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics ...

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All JobsWeapon Engineer JobsWeapon Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Weapon Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$43.6K

$105.5K

$172K

How much do weapon engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapon engineer in Virginia is $105,473.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,300.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a weapon engineer do?

A Weapon Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains weapons systems and related technology. They work on a wide range of projects, including firearms, missiles, explosives, and defense systems, ensuring that these weapons are safe, effective, and reliable. Weapon Engineers may also be involved in research, improving existing technologies, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. They often collaborate with other engineers, military personnel, and government agencies to meet specific defense requirements.

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

To thrive as a Weapon Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and adherence to defense industry standards and certifications such as ITAR compliance are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help individuals excel in designing and testing complex weapon systems. These skills ensure the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of weapons, which are critical for national security and defense objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by weapon engineers when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Weapon Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from fields such as electronics, software, and mechanical engineering. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these disciplines, as each may use different technical languages and design approaches. Successfully integrating various subsystems into a cohesive weapon system also requires strong project management and adaptability to evolving defense requirements. Building strong relationships and maintaining open, solution-focused dialogue with team members are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Weapon Engineer vs Armament Specialist?

AspectWeapon EngineerArmament Specialist
CredentialsEngineering degree, security clearancesTechnical certifications, security clearances
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilitiesField operations, testing sites
Industry UsageDefense contractors, militaryMilitary units, defense agencies

Weapon Engineers focus on designing, developing, and testing weapons systems, often working in labs or manufacturing. Armament Specialists typically handle the deployment, maintenance, and operational support of weapons in the field. While both roles require technical knowledge and security clearances, Weapon Engineers are more involved in the creation process, whereas Armament Specialists focus on operational use and support.

How much do weapon engineers get paid?

Weapon engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in ballistic systems, software, and safety protocols can lead to higher compensation, especially in defense or aerospace industries.

What are popular job titles related to Weapon Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Weapon Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Weapon Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Weapon Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Weapon Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Weapon Engineer job openings:

Weapon Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weapon Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,473 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Weapon Systems Engineer

Decision Technologies

Arlington, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

About Decision Technologies, Inc.

Decision Technologies was founded to help bridge the gap between Department of Defense and Federal Government acquisition programs and technology to help our customers optimize their decision-making process. Over the years, our areas of expertise have expanded to include Systems Engineering, Program Management, In-Service Engineering, Equipment Repair, Research and Development, Test and Evaluation, and Intelligence and Counterintelligence Support. Our growth and success have positioned us as a premier engineering and intelligence services provider contributing to our nation's defense.

Our company culture cultivates talented problem-solvers on focused on performance with industry-leading teamwork and responsiveness. We have established a reputation for offering superior services and solutions, proven integrity and innovation, employee engagement and development, and customer collaboration.

Bring your expertise and knowledge to our team!

We are seeking a qualified Senior-Level Weapon Systems Engineer in Arlington, VA. This position is not eligible for hybrid or remote work situations. This is a 100% on-site, in-office position.


Position Description:

The selectee will perform as the Decision Technologies Weapon Systems Engineer for a US Navy Weapons Engineering and Program Acquisition Support contract.

YOU MUST BE ELIGIBLE FOR A DOD SECRET CLEARANCE

Responsibilities

* Remain current on threat information, and potential tactics for ship self-defense

* Assist in strategic and programmatic planning, including development of technology roadmaps, budget strategies, future upgrade evolutions and program infrastructure plans

* Review and provide technical comments for specifications, program plans, test plans, contractor documentation, work plans, failure diagnoses, and proposals

* Develop guidelines for documenting and managing program requirements, establishing goals and objectives, and establishment of processes and procedures to enhance overall program control and execution

* Assist in the generation of documentation, schedules, plans and other documentation required to initiate system upgrades

* Provide technical inputs, in the areas of effectiveness, risks, programmatic planning when reviewing potential avenues for countering new threats

Required Qualifications

* Bachelor's Degree in a relevant technical discipline

* At least 15 years' experience performing weapon systems engineering, threat engineering, weapon performance analysis, and/or weapon capability planning and requirements development

Desired Qualifications

* Master's Degree in a relevant technical discipline

* Direct experience with systems engineering for specific Navy terminal defense systems such as RAM and CIWS.

* An active DoD SECRET clearance

* Prior SIPR account and experience using SIPR systems

* Ability to work effectively with team members and subcontractors from various technical, acquisition, and administrative disciplines

* Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills

* Ability to develop and deliver coherent and concise customer presentations

Travel Requirements:

* Limited travel requirements (<10%)

Compensation:

Compensation at Decision Technologies, Inc. is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements.

Employee Benefits:

  • Competitive Paid Time Off
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical, Dependent Care & Commuter)
  • Company paid Short-Term, Long-Term, Life and AD&D Insurance
  • 401(k) match
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Certifications

Decision Technologies, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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