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Weapon Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Weapon Engineer information

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$44K

$106.4K

$173.5K

How much do weapon engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapon engineer in the United States is $106,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Weapon Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Weapon Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Weapon Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Weapon Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Weapon Engineer jobs include:
F-35 WIPT Weapon Integration Engineer

F-35 WIPT Weapon Integration Engineer

DCS CORPORATION

Edwards, CA โ€ข On-site

$105.20K - $141.50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago


Job description

Weapon Systems Engineer for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, Joint Program Office, Weapons Integration Product Team (WIPT) in the area of weapons stores integration, Aircraft Armament Equipment (AAE), and associated aircraft/weapons software development for integration and certification of USAF, USMC & USN F-35 weapon systems. This position is located at Eglin AFB, Florida, and is not eligible for telework.
Essential Job Functions:
Plan, coordinate and monitor F-35 weapon(s) integration tasks and serve as the focal point for all integration activities associated with assigned weapon(s).
Maintain oversight of assigned aircraft/weapon integration activities for compliance with F-35 System Requirement Document(s), Universal Armament Interface requirements, and ensure the Joint Services receive effective weapon(s) systems to meet customer requirements.
Coordinate with Joint Services Weapon Program Offices (AFLCMC, NAVAIR) and Lockheed Martin to ensure aircraft integration activities satisfy certification requirements and align to weapon(s) program roadmaps.
Support Joint Interface Control Working Group meetings, Program Management Reviews, Technical Interchange Meetings and IPT status meetings as required. Serve as Government Interface Manager for assigned weapon(s) systems.
Coordinate with the Weapons Stores Certification IPT on activities such as wind tunnel tests, aircraft ground fit checks, weapons(s) pit testing, environmental testing, and store separation testing.
Coordinate with NAVAIR, Air Force SEEK EAGLE, and Lockheed Martin to ensure all analyses are completed to support weapon(s) certifications, airworthiness certifications, and flight clearances.
Participate in aircraft and weapon(s) software development activities to ensure weapon(s) and F-35 interoperability and functionality is mechanized properly.
Coordinate and participate in Mission Systems Integration laboratory, ground and flight tests. Review and advise on test plans, test procedures, and test results.
Support weapon systems analysis as required for weapon delivery accuracy, lethality and mission effectiveness.
Review and support weapons integration planning and estimating for future weapons integration efforts.
Submit weekly status reports on Integration to WIPT leadership to include weapon(s) roadmaps.
Prepare monthly inputs for F-35 Air Vehicle / Mission Systems briefings to leadership.
Required Skills:
Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required. Must be able to obtain and maintain program security clearances.
Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or STEM related field plus 12 years relevant experience in a Weapon or Aircraft Systems Program Office/Program Management Office.
Demonstrated experience of 5+ years integrating airborne weapons systems, to include systems engineering, test, and/or program management expertise.
Working knowledge of DoW acquisition lifecycle process & relevancy to assigned weapon(s) system.
Demonstrated knowledge of fighter aircraft weapons practices and policies.
Military tactical weapons background is preferable.
Demonstrated ability to gather and analyze a variety of weapons program information, make sound judgments concerning weapons integration activities, and effectively communicate recommendations orally and in writing to senior military and government leadership.
Good briefing, interpersonal and diplomatic skills.
Travel once per month (2/month on occasion) and 3-5 days/trip. Foreign travel is unlikely but possible.
Proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.

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About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

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