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Weapons Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arcfield

Model Based Systems Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced systems engineer with strong technical depth in military system ... Design and integrate weapons solutions and software into platform architectures using MBSE ...

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Weapons Systems Engineer information

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$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do weapons systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Weapons Systems Engineer position, and why are they important?

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.

What types of projects and daily responsibilities can a Weapons Systems Engineer expect?

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 is a Weapons Systems Engineer job?

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.

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Weapons Systems Engineer jobs near you
Senior Staff Engineer, Weapons Systems Engineer (SD/TX/DC) (R5019)

Senior Staff Engineer, Weapons Systems Engineer (SD/TX/DC) (R5019)

Shield AI

Dallas, TX

$103K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software and V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:

We are seeking a Weapons Systems Engineer to lead the integration, validation, and operational deployment of advanced weapon capabilities on X-Bat. This role directly impacts mission readiness, combat effectiveness, aircraft survivability, and program execution by ensuring weapon systems are successfully integrated, tested, and fielded to operational users.

The engineer will work across the full lifecycle from requirements development through flight test, helping reduce integration risk, accelerate capability delivery, and improve overall mission system performance.

What you'll do:
  • Define weapon system behaviors, operational sequences, and mission workflows to ensure reliable and predictable weapon employment across all phases of operation
  • Develop system architectures, activity diagrams, interface definitions, and functional behaviors for aircraft weapon systems and mission system integration
  • Lead integration of weapon systems, stores management systems, and avionics interfaces while coordinating across software, avionics, flight sciences, mechanical design, and test teams
  • Support lab, ground, and flight test activities to validate system behavior, identify integration issues early, and improve mission system reliability
  • Perform troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective action development to reduce integration risk, improve operational readiness, and accelerate capability fielding
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field
  • 5+ years of experience in military aerospace, mission systems, avionics, or weapon systems integration
  • Experience defining system behavior, operational concepts, activity diagrams, or functional architectures for complex aerospace systems
  • Familiarity with MIL-STD-1760, MIL-STD-1553, and hardware/software integration environments
  • Strong systems engineering, troubleshooting, and cross-functional communication skills
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience supporting fighter aircraft, UAV, bomber, or advanced military aircraft programs
  • Experience with MBSE methodologies and tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler
  • Background in HIL/SIL integration labs, flight test, or operational weapon system validation
  • Familiarity with airworthiness, cybersecurity, and resilient mission systems
  • Active Secret or Top Secret clearance preferred
#LI-AD6
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.