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Aerospace Defense Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DuPont Group

$120 - $160/hr

Master's degree preferred.* 10+ years of aerospace engineering or related technical experience, with demonstrated expertise in Aerospace & Defense applications, strong industry relationships, and an ...

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Machina Labs

$95 - $130/hr

Machina Labs is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer - Aerospace & Defense to serve as a technical leader within our engineering organization. This is a hands-on role that combines mechanical design ...

DuPont

$120 - $170/hr

Master's degree preferred.10+ years of aerospace engineering or related technical experience, with demonstrated expertise in Aerospace & Defense applications, strong industry relationships, and an ...

New

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Aerospace Defense Engineer information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do aerospace defense engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace defense engineer in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerospace defense engineer?

Aerospace Defense Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test systems and equipment used for national defense, such as missiles, aircraft, satellites, and related technology. They apply principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering to create solutions that meet the strict safety, reliability, and performance standards required in defense applications. These engineers often work with government agencies or defense contractors and may be involved in both research and practical implementation of aerospace defense technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace defense engineer?

To thrive as an Aerospace Defense Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, systems design, and defense technologies, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and security clearance. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB, and familiarity with military standards or certifications such as ITAR compliance are crucial. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you navigate complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the development of safe, innovative, and compliant defense systems that meet rigorous technical and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges aerospace defense engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Aerospace Defense Engineers often collaborate with professionals from various fields such as software, hardware, and systems engineering. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment of goals across disciplines, especially when integrating complex technologies under strict regulatory and security requirements. Navigating differing technical languages, project management styles, and timelines can require strong interpersonal and organizational skills. However, overcoming these challenges fosters innovative solutions and contributes to professional growth by exposing engineers to a broader range of expertise.

What is the difference between Aerospace Defense Engineer vs Aerospace Systems Engineer?

AspectAerospace Defense EngineerAerospace Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, often with security clearancesBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Systems Engineering, often with similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agencies, military projectsCommercial aerospace companies, government agencies, research labs
Industry UsagePrimarily in defense, military, and national security sectorsCommercial and military aerospace sectors
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles require strong engineering backgrounds and work on aerospace projects, Aerospace Defense Engineers focus on military and defense systems, often involving security clearances and defense-specific regulations. Aerospace Systems Engineers have a broader scope, working on both commercial and military aerospace systems, emphasizing system integration and performance across various platforms.

More about Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Aerospace Defense Engineer job openings:

What job categories do people searching Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs are:

Aerospace Defense Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Defense Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Lead Product Quality Engineer, Aerospace & Defense

VulcanForms

Devens, MA • On-site

$117K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

About Us
Founded in 2015 to develop the world's first industrially scalable laser metal additive manufacturing solution, VulcanForms is reshaping how the world manufactures critical products. We build and operate advanced digital infrastructure that enables innovation, accelerates growth, and supports sustainability across aerospace, defense, medical, and other essential industries. Through our vertically integrated capabilities, including scalable additive manufacturing and precision machining, we deliver true end-to-end production at scale by combining cutting-edge technology with a foundation of proven industrial craftsmanship. Our team brings deep expertise in manufacturing, materials science, software, automation, and operations, united by a shared commitment to quality, curiosity, and accountability. We foster an inclusive culture where people take ownership, solve meaningful problems, and continuously learn, because we believe diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes.
Job Purpose
VulcanForms is hiring a Lead Product Quality Engineer, Aerospace & Defense to own quality strategy and execution for customer programs within our aerospace & defense business unit. You will set the technical standard for quality systems and process control within our high-tech digital production environment. This role goes beyond individual task execution to shape how quality is built into the program from the outset, mentor and develop other quality engineers supporting the program, and represent quality engineering in cross-functional product development & ongoing production initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
  • Serve as the primary quality engineering lead for designated product lines, managing product lifecycle quality from initial validation through steady-state production.
  • Lead and execute comprehensive process validations and verification activities (IQ/OQ/PQ) for new product introductions (NPI) and existing line expansions.
  • Independently investigate complex product non-conformances (NCRs), lead material review boards (MRBs), and drive the execution of Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs) to eliminate systemic failure modes.
  • Own the deployment and monitoring of SPC frameworks, defining critical-to-quality (CTQ) metrics and optimizing metrology and testing protocols across the factory floor.
  • Author, review, and approve critical quality system documentation (including DHFs, DMRs, and DHRs) to maintain continuous audit readiness.
  • Partner with Manufacturing, Process, and Machine Engineering teams during normal business hours to implement proactive quality controls and design-for-manufacturability initiatives.
  • Build a high, performing team by providing technical guidance, coaching, and peer reviews for junior quality engineers and inspection technicians
Qualifications
  • 8+ years of progressive quality engineering experience within a highly regulated advanced manufacturing environment, with strong preference for aerospace & defense experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field preferred.
  • Proven mastery of First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs), process capability studies , and formal risk management tools (DFMEA/PFMEA).
  • Hands-on experience working under AS9100 or ISO 13485 quality management systems.
  • Familiarity with metal alloys, metallurgy, precision machining, or metal additive manufacturing processes.
  • ASQ certifications (CQE, CRE) or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt a plus

VulcanForms offers a competitive salary and equity package. Actual compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. In addition, VulcanForms provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous paid time off; and a 401(k) plan with company match.
The annual base salary range for this position is $117,400 to $161,500.

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