Safety Engineer, Surface Safety Officer, Weapons Safety Officer Marines: Ground Safety Officer, Aviation Safety Officer Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities ...
Safety Engineer, Surface Safety Officer, Weapons Safety Officer Marines: Ground Safety Officer, Aviation Safety Officer Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Key Responsibilities Direct shipboard watch teams and coordinate flight and underway operations; oversee navigation, engineering, weapons, and combat systems readiness; plan and execute maritime ...
Weapons Engineer information
See Oregon salary details
$72.5K - $75.9K
5% of jobs
$75.9K - $79.2K
10% of jobs
$79.2K - $82.6K
9% of jobs
$82.7K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$82.6K - $86K
9% of jobs
$86K - $89.3K
9% of jobs
The median wage is $91.5K / yr.
$89.3K - $92.7K
10% of jobs
$92.7K - $96.1K
9% of jobs
$96.1K - $99.4K
9% of jobs
$100.5K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$99.4K - $102.8K
9% of jobs
$102.8K - $106.2K
10% of jobs
$106.2K - $109.5K
8% of jobs
$72.5K
$92.3K
$109.5K
How much do weapons engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapons engineer in Oregon is $92,274.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,100.00 and $101,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Is 40 too late to be an engineer?
Weapons engineering is a field that values skills, experience, and continuous learning over age. Many engineers start or transition into the profession later in life, and relevant technical skills, certifications, and a strong work ethic are often more important than age. Age should not be a barrier to pursuing a career in engineering if you meet the necessary qualifications and stay current with industry developments.
What engineers make $500,000?
Senior weapons engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and security clearances, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, often including bonuses and profit sharing. High-level roles in defense contractors or aerospace companies tend to offer these compensation levels for engineers with advanced expertise in systems design, missile technology, or cybersecurity within the defense industry.
What are common challenges Weapons Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary defense projects?
Weapons Engineers often collaborate with specialists in electronics, materials science, software, and systems engineering. One common challenge is integrating complex subsystems to ensure reliability and safety, while meeting strict military specifications. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as projects usually involve cross-functional teams and tight deadlines. Staying updated with evolving technologies and regulations is also crucial for success in this field.
What Does a Weapons Engineer Do?
As a weapons engineer, you design test, analyze, update, and improve military weapons systems, such as missile defense systems, fighter jets, body armor, and conventional weapons. Your duties depend on the type of industry in which you work. Many weapons systems are now very complex, requiring numerous systems and parts. For example, a fighter jet involves input from aerospace engineers or guidance systems design experts and optical engineers. However, many of your responsibilities are the same across industries. You work with teams of engineers in consultation with military experts to identify weaknesses in weapons and prepare prototypes before beginning full production.
What are weapons engineers and what do they do?
Weapons engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain military weapons and defense systems. Their work involves applying principles of mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering to create advanced weaponry such as missiles, firearms, and defense technologies. Weapons engineers often collaborate with government agencies and defense contractors to ensure that their designs meet safety, reliability, and regulatory standards. They may also be involved in research and development to innovate new technologies for national security. This career requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and adherence to strict ethical and legal guidelines.
What does a weapon engineer do?
A weapon engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains weapon systems, including firearms, missiles, and other military or defense-related technology. They often work with specialized tools, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards to ensure functionality and safety of weapon systems.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Weapons Engineer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Weapons Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or aerospace engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and defense industry standards or certifications is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help you excel in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, innovative, and compliant development of advanced weapon systems in a highly regulated field.
What engineers make $300,000 a year?
Senior weapons engineers, aerospace engineers, and systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in defense, aerospace, or high-tech industries. These roles often require advanced degrees, security clearances, and leadership responsibilities.
What is the difference between Weapons Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?
| Aspect | Weapons Engineer | Mechanical Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's in Engineering, specialized training in weapon systems, security clearances | Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly a Professional Engineer (PE) license |
| Work Environment | Defense labs, military facilities, research centers | Manufacturing plants, design firms, industrial settings |
| Industry Usage | Defense, aerospace, military technology | Automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy |
Weapons Engineers focus on designing, developing, and testing weapon systems within defense and military sectors, often requiring security clearances. Mechanical Engineers work across various industries, designing and analyzing mechanical systems. While both roles involve engineering principles, Weapons Engineers specialize in weaponry and defense applications, whereas Mechanical Engineers have broader applications in general machinery and product design.
More about Weapons Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Weapons Engineer jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Weapons Engineer jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Weapons Engineer jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Weapons Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Weapons Engineer jobs in OR? For Weapons Engineer jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Posted 17 days ago
Knife River rating
7.7
Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
188th of 521 rated manufacturers
Job description
Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
Minimum Qualifications:
Additional Information:
Benefits:
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts
- 401K with Company Match
- Profit Sharing
- 8 Paid Holidays
- Paid Time Off
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Safety Incentives
- Years of Service Recognition
How to Apply:
To be considered for this position, candidates must complete and submit an employment application at jobs.kniferiver.com by the posting deadline noted above. If unable to complete an application online you may print and send completed application to any Knife River NW address or stop in one of our locations to complete an application. Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
If you are an individual with a qualified disability as defined by federal, state, or local law and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application for any reason, please contact your state employment agency or you may call 541-693-5900 to speak with a human resources representative.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check.
Veterans: Put Your Skills to Work with Us!
At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. Below are examples of the many jobs within the military that are transferable to our position.
Air Force: Safety Manager
Navy: Safety Engineer, Surface Safety Officer, Weapons Safety Officer
Marines: Ground Safety Officer, Aviation Safety Officer
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
- Understand and comply with all federal, state and company health, safety and environmental requirements.
- Monitor, oversee, and ensure compliance for the shops/maintenance department.
- Plan, implement, administer, and coordinate equipment maintenance safety training programs.
- Be proactive in creating a strong safety culture by undertaking initiatives to improve safety.
- Conduct shop audits with team members to encourage continuous improvement.
- Ensure FMCSA and MSHA safety regulation compliance as it pertains maintenance operations.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Excellent interpersonal skills, both oral and written.
- Ability to communicate effectively with a variety of personalities.
- Excellent research and analytical skills.
- Working knowledge of computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheet or presentation software.
- Ability to travel regularly to shop locations.
- BA/BS degree in safety, construction, engineering or equivalent combination of experience.
- Willingness to participate in trade organizations and groups to support our industry. Minimum of 3 years of experience in health and safety programs for the construction or transport industry.
- Must possess a valid state driver's license and have acceptable driving record.
- Experience with Federal Motor carrier safety regulations, including OOS, HOS, ELD, and Hazmat criteria.
- Working Knowledge of construction materials equipment and operations.
Additional Information:
Benefits:
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Health Savings & Flexible Spending Accounts
- 401K with Company Match
- Profit Sharing
- 8 Paid Holidays
- Paid Time Off
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Safety Incentives
- Years of Service Recognition
How to Apply:
To be considered for this position, candidates must complete and submit an employment application at jobs.kniferiver.com by the posting deadline noted above. If unable to complete an application online you may print and send completed application to any Knife River NW address or stop in one of our locations to complete an application. Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
If you are an individual with a qualified disability as defined by federal, state, or local law and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application for any reason, please contact your state employment agency or you may call 541-693-5900 to speak with a human resources representative.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check.
Veterans: Put Your Skills to Work with Us!
At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. Below are examples of the many jobs within the military that are transferable to our position.
Air Force: Safety Manager
Navy: Safety Engineer, Surface Safety Officer, Weapons Safety Officer
Marines: Ground Safety Officer, Aviation Safety Officer
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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