1

Weapons Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

These engineers provide senior-level systems engineering expertise for weapon control systems and surface combat, control, and situational awareness systems throughout the full system lifecycle, from ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Tharros is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer specializing in Weapons or Combat Systems to support NSWCDD in Dahlgren, VA. These engineers provide senior-level systems engineering expertise for weapon ...

SW Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... weapons systems in Dahlgren, VA. The Software Engineer will develop and design data analysis ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

These engineers provide senior-level systems engineering expertise for weapon control systems and surface combat, control, and situational awareness systems throughout the full system lifecycle, from ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

Description Tharros is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer specializing in Weapons or Combat Systems to support NSWCDD in Dahlgren, VA. These engineers provide senior-level systems engineering ...

SW Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... weapons systems in Dahlgren, VA. The Software Engineer will develop and design data analysis ...

Showing results 21-40

Weapons Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do weapons systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapons systems engineer in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a weapons systems engineer?

A Weapons Systems Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains weapon systems for military or defense applications. They work with advanced technologies, integrating hardware and software to ensure the effectiveness, reliability, and safety of various weapons. This role often involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including aerospace, mechanical, and electrical engineers. Additionally, they analyze system performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure compliance with government and military standards.

What does a weapons systems engineer do?

A Weapons Systems Engineer typically works on a variety of projects involving the design, analysis, testing, and integration of sophisticated weapon systems for defense applications. Daily responsibilities may include developing technical requirements, creating system models, conducting simulations, supporting prototype development, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams of engineers, technicians, and project managers. Engineers frequently attend project meetings to report on progress and coordinate with stakeholders to ensure that systems meet performance, safety, and compliance standards. This role offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology and opportunities to contribute to high-impact defense solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weapons systems engineer?

To thrive as a Weapons Systems Engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor’s or higher degree in engineering (such as mechanical, electrical, or aerospace) and a strong grasp of physics, mathematics, and systems engineering principles. Familiarity with modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink), CAD software, and knowledge of military standards or relevant security clearances are often required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities distinguish those who excel in this field. These skills are crucial for designing, integrating, and supporting complex weapon systems while ensuring safety, functionality, and regulatory compliance.

Is weapons systems engineering a good career?

Weapons systems engineering is a specialized field involving the design, development, and integration of military technology and defense systems. It often requires a strong background in engineering, security clearances, and knowledge of defense regulations, with job stability and high demand in defense and aerospace industries. Career growth can be influenced by technological advancements and government defense budgets.
More about Weapons Systems Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Weapons Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Weapons Systems Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Weapons Systems Engineer jobs?

For Weapons Systems Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Weapons Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.

Senior Systems Engineer (Weapons-Focused)

Patuxent River, MD • On-site

ASEC
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$170K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description

Location: NAS Patuxent River, MD

Security Clearance Requirement: Active Secret

Telework Eligible? This is an on-site position

What You'll Do:


As the Senior Systems Engineer, you will provide systems engineering expertise to NAVAIR's Direct and Time Sensitive Strike Weapons Program Office (PMA-242). You will support systems engineering, requirements development, systems integration, technical reviews, risk management, and lifecycle engineering activities for complex weapon systems and related capabilities. This role offers the opportunity to work closely with engineering, program management, test, fleet, and industry stakeholders to support the development and integration of advanced DoD capabilities.


Key Responsibilities: 

  • Lead Systems Engineering Technical Reviews (SETRs), requirements development, system architecture, risk management, and configuration management activities.
  • Conduct gap analyses aligned with warfighter needs to deliver traceable capability requirements for current and future weapons roadmaps.
  • Guide requirements definition, capability roadmapping, and integration planning for emerging DoD strike weapons. 
  • Coordinate with developmental and operational test communities, intelligence organizations, program offices, NAVAIR, JPO, industry partners, and fleet/combat air forces.
  • Lead risk assessment activities related to aircraft and system-of-systems integration.
  • Serve as a primary technical interface with fleet users, OPNAV sponsors, contractors, platform PMAs, weapons safety boards, and joint service partners.

This description outlines the general nature and scope of the role. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

Requirements

What You'll Bring:

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in systems engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 8+ years of systems engineering experience supporting complex systems, preferably within the DoD, aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated environments.
  • Demonstrated experience with systems engineering processes, including requirements development, systems integration, technical reviews, risk management, and/or configuration management.

Preferred Qualifications:  

  • Experience supporting weapons systems, aircraft systems, or other complex military systems.
  • Experience with DoD acquisition programs and familiarity with DoD 5000-series guidance.
  • Experience with NAVAIR, Navy, Marine Corps, or other DoD programs.
  • Familiarity with MIL-STD environments, aircraft/weapon integration, or systems certification processes.

Equally Important:

  • Ability to build positive, collaborative relationships across teams and with external partners.
  • Effective communicator with strong verbal and written skills.
  • Proactive, self-directed work style with the ability to operate independently.
  • Analytical thinker with proven problem-solving capabilities.
  • Highly organized, with the ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

ASEC is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs, and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws.


Security Clearance Requirement:

  • This position requires U.S. citizenship and an active DoD Secret clearance. Selected candidate will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Salary Range:

  • The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $170,000 - $185,000, commensurate with an individual's experience, qualifications, and skill set. ASEC is committed to providing fair and equitable compensation.

Who We Are:


ASEC offers meaningful, mission-driven work within a culture that supports your professional and personal growth. We partner with our government customers to deliver innovative solutions across engineering, information technology, training, and logistics. Above all, we are committed to doing what's right for the Warfighter-plain and simple. Explore what makes ASEC different by visiting our website.


Why work at ASEC?

  • 100% employee-owned company. Learn more about our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) here!
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including 11 paid holidays, medical/dental/vision coverage, HSA/FSA options, disability insurance, and more!
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Tuition assistance for undergraduate and graduate education
  • Veteran-friendly employer
  • Thriving employee culture
Not the right opportunity for you? Send this job posting to a friend!


ASEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, hire, train, compensate, and promote employees based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), or any other status protected by law.

ASEC also complies with all applicable pay transparency laws and will not discriminate against employees or applicants for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing compensation.