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Weapons Development Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

STRUCTURAL ANALYST III

Mattaponi, VA · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Supports structural modifications, systems integration, weapons development, reverse engineering of OEM components, and material review board (MRB) related activities. * Reviews and creates drawings ...

Leidos currently has an opening for Weapons and Tactics Analyst located at Langley Air Force Base ... Develops, coordinates, and implements techniques and procedures (TTP); support the development and ...

Weapons and Tactics Analyst

Hampton, VA · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Leidos currently has an opening for Weapons and Tactics Analyst located at Langley Air Force Base ... Develops, coordinates, and implements techniques and procedures (TTP); support the development and ...

Showing results 41-60

Weapons Development information

See Virginia salary details

$17.8K

$69.7K

$96.2K

How much do weapons development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapons development in Virginia is $69,744.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $89,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the weapons development position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Weapons Development, a strong background in engineering, physics, or a related technical field is essential, often supported by advanced degrees and security clearance. Experience with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of defense industry standards or certifications like ITAR compliance is commonly required. Effective teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and meticulous attention to detail are crucial soft skills in this position. These qualifications ensure the development of safe, innovative, and reliable systems that meet rigorous regulatory and operational requirements.

What is a weapons development?

A Weapons Development job involves researching, designing, testing, and improving military-grade weaponry and defense systems. Professionals in this field work with engineers, scientists, and military personnel to create advanced technologies for national security and defense applications. The role may involve developing firearms, explosives, missile systems, or cyber and electronic warfare tools. Strong knowledge of materials science, engineering, and physics is often required. Due to the sensitive nature of the work, security clearances and government compliance are typically necessary.

What types of projects or technologies might I work on as part of a weapons development team?

As a professional in Weapons Development, you may work on designing, prototyping, and testing a wide range of defense technologies, including guidance systems, propulsion units, advanced materials, or integrated electronic systems. Projects can vary from conceptual research and feasibility studies to hands-on assembly and field testing, depending on the specific organization's focus. Team members typically collaborate closely with subject matter experts in engineering, software, and project management to meet strict performance and safety standards. This multidisciplinary environment offers a dynamic workload and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in national defense. Career progression often involves increasing responsibilities in leadership, project oversight, or specialized technical expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Weapons Development jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Weapons Development jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Weapons Development jobs in Virginia?

For Weapons Development jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Weapons Development jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Weapons Development jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Weapons Development job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,744 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Weapons Systems Officer (Senior SME)

Blue Sky Innovators

Arlington, VA

$200K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Blue Sky Innovators is seeking a highly experienced U.S. Air Force Combat Pilot or Weapons Systems Officer (WSO) with a minimum of 15 years of operational experience and demonstrated expertise supporting Special Access Programs (SAPs).

This role provides direct support to senior Department of the Air Force leadership at the Pentagon, delivering mission-critical expertise in advanced air superiority, Low Observable (LO) / Counter-Low Observable (CLO) technologies, and strategic defense systems.

You will operate at the intersection of operations, acquisition, and advanced capabilities—helping shape decisions that impact the future of U.S. air and space dominance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operational Expertise: Provide senior-level insight based on extensive combat aviation experience to inform strategic and acquisition decisions.
  • LO/CLO Advisory: Deliver expert analysis and recommendations on Low Observable and Counter-LO technologies in support of SAF/AQL priorities.
  • Systems Engineering Support: Contribute to systems engineering efforts across advanced weapons systems and next-generation air superiority initiatives.
  • Special Access Program Support: Advise on and support highly classified SAP efforts, ensuring operational relevance and technical rigor.
  • Export License Reviews: Conduct technical assessments of industry export applications involving sensitive technologies and support development of U.S. Government positions.
  • Senior Leader Engagement: Interface directly with Pentagon leadership, providing actionable recommendations on critical defense programs.

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 15+ years of USAF operational experience as a Combat Pilot or Weapons Systems Officer
  • Demonstrated experience supporting or working within Special Access Programs (SAPs)
  • Deep expertise in air superiority, advanced weapons systems, electronic warfare, or ISR operations
  • Strong understanding of LO/CLO technologies and operational applications
  • Current Top Secret (TS) clearance (active)
  • Ability to work full-time onsite at the Pentagon

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience supporting MAJCOM, Headquarters Air Force, or OSD-level organizations
  • Background in systems engineering, requirements development, or acquisition support
  • Willing to learn about foreign military sales (FMS) and export compliance processes
  • Master's degree, Engineering, Defense Studies, or related field desired
  • Fighter, bomber, ISR, or RPA operational background required

Why Blue Sky Innovators?

At Blue Sky Innovators, we bring together elite operators, engineers, and strategists to solve the nation's most complex defense challenges. Our team directly influences high-impact programs across the Department of the Air Force, OSD, and Combatant Commands.

This is a unique opportunity to remain at the forefront of national defense—leveraging your operational experience to shape next-generation capabilities and maintain U.S. air dominance.

If you are a seasoned USAF operator ready to make a strategic impact at the highest levels of the Department of Defense, we want to hear from you.

Join Blue Sky Innovators and continue the mission—at a new level.

Salary range for the position is $200,000 - $250,000 per year. Specific compensation will be determined by several factors including experience, education, skills, and knowledge. We also offer medical/dental/vision benefits and 401k contribution.

Blue Sky Innovators, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you are a qualified job seeker with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access http://www.blueskyinnovators.com as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, please email us at careers@blueskyinnovators.com and provide your name and contact information. Please note: this is only for job seekers with disabilities requesting an accommodation.