Boeing vs Lockheed Martin Resume Keywords (2026): Side by Side ATS Comparison
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Applying to both Boeing and Lockheed Martin? Using the same resume for both is the #1 reason aerospace engineers get rejected by ATS.
Boeing and Lockheed Martin scan for different keywords, use different ATS platforms, and prioritize different skill sets. Boeing emphasizes commercial aviation manufacturing and Lean processes. Lockheed Martin prioritizes defense clearances and systems engineering methodology.
The engineers who land interviews at both companies tailor separate resumes for each.
👉 Compare Your Resume Against Both Companies' Keywords - Free
Boeing vs Lockheed Martin: Company Overview (2026)
Before diving into keywords, here is how these aerospace giants compare:
| Factor | Boeing | Lockheed Martin |
|---|---|---|
| Headquarters | Arlington, VA (moved from Chicago in 2022) | Bethesda, MD |
| Employees | ~170,000 | ~116,000 |
| 2025 Revenue | ~$66 billion | ~$71 billion |
| Primary Focus | Commercial aviation + defense | Defense + space + security |
| Major Programs | 737 MAX, 787, 777X, F/A-18, KC-46 | F-35, F-22, C-130, Orion, THAAD |
| ATS Platform | Workday | Custom Taleo-based system |
| Clearance Required | Some roles (defense division) | Most technical roles |
| Engineering Culture | Manufacturing-driven, Lean focused | Systems engineering, mission-driven |
Why this matters for your resume: Boeing job postings use manufacturing and production vocabulary. Lockheed Martin postings use defense and systems engineering vocabulary. Your resume must speak each company's language.
ATS Keyword Comparison: Boeing vs Lockheed Martin
Security Clearance Keywords
Security clearance is handled very differently between the two companies:
| Keyword Category | Boeing | Lockheed Martin |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance Mention | Required for defense roles only | Required for most technical roles |
| Common Levels | Secret, Top Secret | Secret, Top Secret, TS/SCI, Polygraph |
| Where to Place | Skills section or header | Top of resume, before name in some cases |
| Related Terms | U.S. Citizen, ITAR Compliant | SAP (Special Access Programs), COMSEC, INFOSEC |
| Impact on Hiring | Important for BDS division | Often a "knockout" requirement |
Key difference: At Lockheed Martin, listing "Active Top Secret/SCI" at the top of your resume is the single most impactful keyword you can include. At Boeing, clearance matters primarily for Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) roles.
Engineering and Technical Keywords
| Skill Area | Boeing Keywords | Lockheed Martin Keywords |
|---|---|---|
| CAD Software | CATIA V5, CATIA V6, Dassault Systemes, Enovia | CATIA, NX (Siemens), Creo, Pro/Engineer |
| Analysis Tools | ANSYS, NASTRAN, ABAQUS, Finite Element Analysis | MATLAB, Simulink, STK, Modeling & Simulation |
| Systems Engineering | Systems Integration, Requirements Management | MBSE, SysML, DOORS, Cameo, V-Model |
| Software Languages | C++, Python, Java, DO-178C | C++, Ada, Python, Java, VHDL, Verilog |
| Quality Standards | AS9100, D6-54551, Boeing Quality Management System | DoD 5000, MIL-STD, ISO 9001, CMMI |
| Manufacturing | Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 5S, Kaizen | Lean Six Sigma (less manufacturing-focused) |
| Materials | Composite Materials, Carbon Fiber, Aluminum Alloys | RF Engineering, Radar Systems, Sensor Fusion |
What this means: Boeing resumes should emphasize manufacturing processes and commercial aviation standards. Lockheed Martin resumes should emphasize defense methodology and systems engineering tools.
Program Management Keywords
| Management Area | Boeing Keywords | Lockheed Martin Keywords |
|---|---|---|
| Methodology | Lean, Agile, SAFe | Agile, Earned Value Management (EVM) |
| Scheduling | MS Project, Production Schedule | IMS (Integrated Master Schedule), Primavera P6 |
| Budget | Cost Reduction, Savings, ROI | EAC, CAM (Control Account Manager), CPI, SPI |
| Quality | First Time Quality, Defect Reduction, CAPA | V&V (Verification & Validation), Test & Evaluation |
| Compliance | FAA Regulations, Airworthiness, FAR | DoD Directives, NIST 800-171, RMF |
| Reviews | PDR, CDR, MRB | PDR, CDR, SRR, TRR, Technical Baseline |
Key insight: Boeing management keywords lean toward production efficiency and cost savings. Lockheed Martin management keywords focus on government contract compliance and earned value metrics.
Salary Comparison: Boeing vs Lockheed Martin (2026)
Salaries vary by role, location, and clearance level. Here is a side by side comparison based on Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, and Payscale data:
Engineering Roles
| Role | Boeing Salary Range | Lockheed Martin Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Engineer | $78K to $95K | $75K to $92K |
| Mid-Level Engineer (5-10 years) | $105K to $140K | $100K to $135K |
| Senior Engineer (10+ years) | $140K to $175K | $130K to $165K |
| Principal Engineer | $165K to $200K | $155K to $190K |
| Engineering Manager | $160K to $210K | $150K to $200K |
Software Engineering Roles
| Role | Boeing Salary Range | Lockheed Martin Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer I | $85K to $105K | $80K to $100K |
| Software Engineer II | $105K to $135K | $100K to $130K |
| Senior Software Engineer | $135K to $170K | $125K to $160K |
| Software Architect | $160K to $195K | $150K to $185K |
Cleared Roles Premium
| Clearance Level | Boeing Premium | Lockheed Martin Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Secret | +5% to +10% | +10% to +15% |
| Top Secret | +10% to +15% | +15% to +20% |
| TS/SCI | +15% to +20% | +20% to +30% |
Bottom line: Boeing tends to pay slightly more for commercial aviation roles, especially in Seattle. Lockheed Martin compensates more aggressively for cleared roles, particularly TS/SCI positions.
👉 Not sure which company your resume is better optimized for?
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Head to Head: Resume Bullet Examples
Systems Engineering Role
Boeing-optimized bullet:
Led systems integration efforts for Boeing 787 Dreamliner environmental control system, coordinating with 5 cross-functional teams across CATIA V6 design, ANSYS thermal analysis, and AS9100 quality compliance, reducing integration defects by 30%
Lockheed Martin-optimized bullet:
Managed MBSE workflow using Cameo Systems Modeler and SysML for F-35 Lightning II avionics subsystem, conducting requirements analysis in DOORS, performing V&V activities supporting CDR, and maintaining DoD 5000 compliance across all deliverables
What changed: Boeing bullet emphasizes the specific aircraft program, manufacturing quality (AS9100), and cross-functional coordination. Lockheed Martin bullet emphasizes defense methodology (MBSE, SysML), compliance standards (DoD), and lifecycle activities (V&V, CDR).
Software Engineering Role
Boeing-optimized bullet:
Developed DO-178C compliant flight control software in C++ for Boeing 777X fly-by-wire system, implementing RTOS modules on VxWorks platform, achieving DAL A certification with zero critical findings across 50,000+ lines of code
Lockheed Martin-optimized bullet:
Engineered embedded software in C++ and Ada for F-22 Raptor sensor fusion system, deploying on RTOS/VxWorks platform with DevSecOps CI/CD pipeline, maintaining compliance with NIST 800-171 cybersecurity controls and JSIG security authorization
What changed: Boeing bullet emphasizes aviation safety standards (DO-178C, DAL A) and specific aircraft. Lockheed Martin bullet emphasizes defense cybersecurity (NIST, JSIG) and security-focused development (DevSecOps).
Manufacturing/Production Role
Boeing-optimized bullet:
Implemented Lean Manufacturing and 5S methodology on 737 MAX fuselage assembly line, reducing cycle time by 15% and achieving First Time Quality rate of 98.5% across 200+ production units, maintaining AS9100 and Boeing D6-54551 process standards
Lockheed Martin-optimized bullet:
Optimized production workflow for C-130J Super Hercules wing assembly using Lean Six Sigma methodology (Green Belt certified), conducting root cause analysis on 12 non-conformance reports, improving throughput by 18% while maintaining MIL-STD and DCMA audit compliance
What changed: Boeing bullet emphasizes high-volume production metrics and Boeing-specific quality standards. Lockheed Martin bullet emphasizes defense compliance, Six Sigma certification, and government audit readiness.
Keywords Both Companies Search For
While tailoring is essential, these keywords appear in both Boeing and Lockheed Martin job postings:
| Category | Shared Keywords |
|---|---|
| Engineering Tools | CATIA, MATLAB, Python, C++, ANSYS |
| Methodology | Agile, Systems Engineering, Requirements Management |
| Quality | Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis, Corrective Action |
| Project Management | Risk Management, Cross-functional Teams, Stakeholder Management |
| Certifications | PMP, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, INCOSE CSEP |
| Soft Skills | Technical Leadership, Mentoring, Presentation Skills |
| Clearance | U.S. Citizen, Security Clearance Eligible |
Pro tip: Start with a "master resume" containing these shared keywords. Then create Boeing-specific and Lockheed Martin-specific versions by swapping out the unique terms from the tables above.
How to Tailor Your Resume for Each Company
Step 1: Identify the Division
Boeing Divisions:
- Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA): 737, 787, 777X, 767. Focus on FAA, airworthiness, production rate keywords.
- Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS): F/A-18, KC-46, AH-64 Apache, satellites. Focus on DoD, clearance, mission systems keywords.
- Boeing Global Services (BGS): Maintenance, training, logistics. Focus on fleet support, MRO, sustainment keywords.
Lockheed Martin Divisions:
- Aeronautics: F-35, F-22, F-16, C-130, Skunk Works. Focus on stealth, avionics, flight systems keywords.
- Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS): Sikorsky, Aegis, radar, electronic warfare. Focus on C4ISR, sensor systems, undersea warfare keywords.
- Space: Orion, GPS III, SBIRS. Focus on satellite systems, orbital mechanics, payload integration keywords.
- Missiles and Fire Control (MFC): THAAD, HIMARS, Javelin. Focus on guidance systems, fire control, electro-optics keywords.
Step 2: Match Keywords to Job Posting
- Copy the job description into a text document
- Highlight every technical term, tool, standard, and certification mentioned
- Cross-reference against the keyword tables in this guide
- Ensure your resume includes at least 15 to 20 matching keywords
Step 3: Use the Right Format
Boeing prefers:
- Action verbs emphasizing results (Reduced, Improved, Delivered, Achieved)
- Quantified production metrics (units produced, cycle time reduction, cost savings)
- Clear skills sections with specific tool names
Lockheed Martin prefers:
- Defense-specific action verbs (Managed, Coordinated, Ensured compliance)
- Clearance level prominently displayed
- Government contract experience highlighted
- Acronyms spelled out on first use with abbreviation in parentheses
Step 4: Scan Before Submitting
Upload each version to an ATS scanner to verify keyword coverage before submitting.
👉 Scan Your Boeing Resume | Scan Your Lockheed Martin Resume
Which Company Should You Apply To?
Choose Boeing If You:
- Prefer commercial aviation over defense
- Want to work on high-volume manufacturing (737, 787)
- Have strong Lean/manufacturing background
- Want locations in Seattle, Charleston, or St. Louis
- Do not have or want security clearance
Choose Lockheed Martin If You:
- Want to work on cutting-edge defense technology
- Already have active security clearance (Secret, TS/SCI)
- Enjoy systems engineering methodology and mission-critical work
- Want locations in Bethesda, Fort Worth, or Orlando
- Are interested in space programs (Orion, GPS III)
Apply to Both If You:
- Have transferable aerospace engineering skills
- Are flexible on commercial vs. defense work
- Want to maximize your interview opportunities
- Are willing to create tailored resumes for each company
Common Mistakes When Applying to Both Companies
Mistake #1: Using One Resume for Both
Problem: Boeing's Workday ATS and Lockheed Martin's Taleo-based ATS scan for different keywords. A resume optimized for Boeing will score poorly at Lockheed Martin, and vice versa.
Fix: Create two separate resume versions. Use this guide to swap out company-specific keywords while keeping your core experience consistent.
Mistake #2: Listing Generic Skills
Problem: Writing "CAD software" instead of "CATIA V5" or "systems engineering" without specifying "MBSE using Cameo and SysML."
Fix: Always use the specific tool names and methodologies each company mentions in their job postings.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Clearance Placement
Problem: Burying your security clearance in the skills section when applying to Lockheed Martin.
Fix: For Lockheed Martin, list your clearance level immediately after your name or in a prominent header. For Boeing defense roles, include it in your skills section.
Mistake #4: Not Researching the Specific Program
Problem: Applying to a Boeing 787 role and mentioning F-35 experience prominently, or applying to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics and highlighting commercial aviation experience.
Fix: Research the specific program your target role supports and align your resume language accordingly.
Related Articles
Boeing Guides
- Boeing Resume Keywords (2026) - Complete keyword list for all Boeing roles
- Boeing Interview Questions (2026) - 25 common questions with answers
- Boeing Software Engineer Resume Keywords - Software and avionics roles
- Boeing Mechanical Engineer Resume Keywords - Structural and design roles
- Boeing Manufacturing Engineer Resume Keywords - Production and quality roles
- Boeing Internship Resume Keywords - Student and entry-level roles
Lockheed Martin Guides
- Lockheed Martin Resume Keywords (2026) - 60+ defense ATS keywords
Aerospace Engineering
- Aerospace Engineer Resume Keywords - Industry-wide engineering keywords
- Aviation Supply Chain Resume Keywords - Supply chain and logistics roles
Ready to Optimize Your Aerospace Resume?
Stop guessing which keywords you are missing. Upload your resume alongside any Boeing or Lockheed Martin job description and get instant ATS feedback.
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Whether you are applying to Boeing, Lockheed Martin, or both, our AI scanner will:
- Identify missing company-specific keywords
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The top aerospace engineers do not use one resume for every company. They tailor, test, and optimize. Start now.