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Defense Contract Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Mgr Quality Engineering I

Mishawaka, IN · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Experience working with the United States Government's Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), or experience working for an OEM/Tier 1 automotive/truck's quality organization preferred. * Working ...

Mgr Quality Engineering I

Mishawaka, IN · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Experience working with the United States Government's Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), or experience working for an OEM/Tier 1 automotive/truck's quality organization preferred. * Working ...

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Systems Lead Location: NSWC-Crane, IN* Position ...

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Systems Lead Location: NSWC-Crane, IN* Position ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Senior Mechanical Engineer Location: NSWC-Crane ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Senior Mechanical Engineer Location: NSWC-Crane ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Senior Mechanical Engineer Location: NSWC-Crane ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Senior Mechanical Engineer Location: NSWC-Crane ...

Kratos Defense is currently seeking an Engineering Drafter in support of the SPY-1 Radar Program in ... S. Citizenship required due to DoD contract obligations. * Ability to handle sensitive and ...

Senior Software Engineer

Crane, IN

$122K - $161K/yr

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Senior Software Engineer Location: NSWC-Crane, IN*

Committed to excellence, innovation, and national security, Oak Grove Technologies fulfills federal defense contracts and actively supports veterans through sponsorships and events. Driven by its ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

$107K - $139K/yr

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Senior Electrical Engineer Location: NSWC-Crane ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

$107K - $139K/yr

Department of Defense contracts that legally require all personnel to be U.S. citizens. Candidates who are not U.S. citizens will not be considered. Senior Electrical Engineer Location: NSWC-Crane ...

V2X is looking for a Process Technician 4 to join our team support defense contracts. Seeking successful candidates with extensive knowledge in the manufacture and repair of electronic and ...

Showing results 41-60

Defense Contract information

See Indiana salary details

$14

$34

$52

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contract in Indiana is $34.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.14 and $41.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Defense Contract vs Defense Analyst?

AspectDefense ContractDefense Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, contracting certificationsSecurity clearances, analytical and research skills
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractorsMilitary, government agencies, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsageDefense contractors, government procurement officesMilitary organizations, defense analysis firms
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on procurement, contracts, and complianceFocus on strategic analysis, intelligence, and policy

While both roles operate within the defense industry, Defense Contract professionals primarily handle procurement, negotiations, and contract management for defense projects. Defense Analysts focus on evaluating military strategies, intelligence, and policy development. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify roles aligned with their skills and career goals within the defense sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense contract professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Contract professional, you need a solid understanding of government procurement regulations, contract negotiation, and compliance, often supported by a degree in business, law, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), contract management software, and security clearance requirements is typically necessary. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure compliance with complex regulations, minimize risk, and facilitate successful contract execution within the defense sector.

How can I work for a defense contract?

To work on a defense contract, you typically need to apply through government or defense contractor job portals, meet security clearance requirements, and possess relevant skills such as engineering, cybersecurity, or logistics. Many positions require U.S. citizenship and background checks, and some roles may require specialized certifications or training.

What does a defense contract do?

A defense contract involves an agreement between a government agency and a company to provide goods or services for national defense, such as military equipment, technology, or support. Defense contractors often work on projects requiring security clearances, technical expertise, and adherence to strict regulations to support military operations and national security objectives.

What is a defense contract?

Defense contracts are legally binding agreements between a government, typically the Department of Defense, and private companies or organizations to provide goods, services, or research that support national defense objectives. These contracts can cover a wide range of needs, including weapons systems, military equipment, technology development, construction, and logistical support. Defense contracts are awarded through a competitive bidding process, and they are subject to strict regulations to ensure transparency, accountability, and national security. Companies that secure these contracts must comply with specific requirements and standards set by the government.

What are some common challenges faced when working on defense contracts, and how can professionals prepare for them?

Working on defense contracts often involves navigating complex compliance requirements, strict confidentiality, and tight deadlines. Professionals may face challenges such as adhering to government regulations (like ITAR or DFARS), coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and adapting to changing project scopes. To prepare, it's helpful to gain familiarity with relevant regulations, develop strong project management skills, and build effective communication channels within interdisciplinary teams. Proactively seeking training and staying updated on industry standards can also make the transition smoother.
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Defense jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Defense Contract jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Defense Contract job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,924 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Mgr Quality Engineering I

AM General

Mishawaka, IN • On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


AM General rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Introduction to AM General
AM General develops and builds specialized ground vehicle systems that get the US Armed Services and our allies to and from their mission safely. Our innovative spirit delivers advanced, rugged, resilient, and dependable mobility solutions.
We are one team dedicated to producing the best products for our customers. We have a collective understanding that at AM General our purpose is to serve those who serve to protect us.
We R.I.D.E. with Sgt. Smith! We are Responsive We have Integrity We are Dynamic We exhibit Excellence
Principal Duties & Responsibilities
  • Establish and maintain Product Quality Standards in compliance with customer, contractual, regulatory, and government requirements.
  • Lead APQP planning, validation, and execution for new programs and engineering changes, including PFMEAs, Special Characteristics, Control Plans, and internal 8D corrective actions.
  • Develop and deploy Quality Plans and ensure effective production Quality Control Loops (build, confirm, and audit) to support mission-critical product integrity.
  • Lead cross-functional problem solving and continuous improvement initiatives using 8D and Lean Six Sigma methodologies to improve build quality and process robustness.
  • Oversee the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of Quality procedures, processes, and acceptance criteria in accordance with IATF 16949 and ISO requirements.
  • Serve as the primary Quality interface with Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Government Quality/Engineering representatives.
  • Lead and support Quality operations including dimensional layout, corrosion testing, gage calibration, electrical testing, and Dynamic Vehicle Testing, as required.
  • Manage Quality System changes supporting new model introductions, engineering changes, and production transitions.
  • Coach, develop, and lead Quality Engineers to ensure technical competency, compliance discipline, and accountability.
  • Provide Quality leadership for Integrated Product Teams (IPT), Product Development Teams (PDT), Engineering Change Notices (ECN), Engineering Try-Outs, Production Trial Runs, and Quality Steering Committee (QSC) reviews and approvals.

KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS:
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Minimum of 5+ years of engineering experience in the automotive industry preferred.
  • Prior experience leading and developing Quality Engineering teams preferred.
  • Direct experience in an automotive assembly or manufacturing plant environment preferred
  • Strong working knowledge of AIAG Core Tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA).
  • Experience with ISO standards and IATF 16949 certification and compliance preferred.
  • Ability to collaborate cross-functionally to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.
  • Experience working with the United States Government's Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), or experience working for an OEM/Tier 1 automotive/truck's quality organization preferred.
  • Working knowledge of automotive diagnostic trouble shooting.
  • Skilled in math, sciences, IT, strong analytical and structured problem-solving skills, with clean communication skills.
  • Minimum Bachelor's degree required in a technical or business-related field preferred.

PHYSICAL EFFORT
  • Sight: must be able to regularly read computer screen, reports, and various documents with detail and clarity so as to accomplish work tasks in a safe and efficient manner. This includes regular use of adequate close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Hearing: must be able to regularly hear well enough to communicate.
  • Hand-Eye Coordination: must be able to regularly coordinate one's eyes with one's fingers, wrists, or arms to move, carry, or manipulate objects or to perform other job-related tasks.
  • Manual Dexterity: must be able to regularly make quick, accurate, skillful, and coordinated movement with hands and arms to grasp, place, move, or use objects such as phone, computer, and other office equipment, tools, or controls.
  • Agility: must be able to regularly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with the body, arms, or legs to perform job tasks. This includes the ability to move throughout all areas of the facility, Company's property surrounding facility, or additional work areas.
  • Climbing / Kneeling: must be able to occasionally climb, kneel, bend over, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, with balance.
  • Lifting: must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds with or without assistance.
  • Physical Strength: must be able to occasionally lift, push, pull, or carry objects using hands, arms, back, abdominal muscles, shoulders, legs, or a combination of these muscle groups.
  • Stamina: must be able to occasionally exert oneself physically over long periods of time. This may include performing repetitive or strenuous tasks as well as standing and sitting for long periods.

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Physical Location: This position operates between an office and manufacturing plant environment and is often assigned to a specific shift or hours. Employee must be able to perform job functions in environment with varying difficult work conditions such as extreme cold, heat, inclement weather, at heights, and/or while exposed to constant/intermittent loud noises.
  • Teamwork: This position will work with others to ensure efficiency in the workplace.
  • Listening Skills: This position will need to understand how to use machinery properly and safely to prevent accidents and ensure all tasks are completed accurately.
  • Ability to follow instructions: Managers assign tasks and responsibilities, which vary depending on the products being manufactured; this position should be able to follow instructions competently.
  • Methodical approach: Production lines follow a set process, so this position needs a methodical approach to ensure all tasks are completed in the correct order for a smooth-running production line.
  • Concentration: This position may perform the same or similar tasks repeatedly, so a strong level of concentration when carrying out these tasks is important for quality control purposes. This role is often fast paced, so being able to maintain focus at all times is important.

Travel Requirements:
Up to 10% travel may be required.
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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