1

Defense Electrical Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Electrical Engineer MUST BE A US CITIZEN About MicroNova MicroNova is a Metro Detroit ... Defense, and Space. We also created an open-source whole-house audio system that serves a growing ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Otsego, MI · On-site

$87K - $114K/yr

... military, and defense markets. Since 1985, we have paired industry-leading stability with ... Job Summary We are seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer to lead the end-to-end development of ...

Your defense expertise can make an impact here. At GM Defense , we're combining the speed ... Electrical Engineering * Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development

New

Your defense expertise can make an impact here. At GM Defense , we're combining the speed ... Electrical Engineering * Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development

New

Your defense expertise can make an impact here. At GM Defense , we're combining the speed ... Electrical Engineering * Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development

New

Defense Engineer

Milford, MI · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Your defense expertise can make an impact here. At GM Defense, we're combining the speed ... Electrical Engineering * Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development

New

Showing results 21-40

Defense Electrical Engineer information

What is a defense electrical engineer?

Defense Electrical Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the manufacturing of electrical equipment used in military and defense applications. Their work often involves creating advanced electronic systems for communication, surveillance, navigation, and weapons systems that must meet rigorous safety and reliability standards. These engineers collaborate with other defense professionals and must stay up-to-date with evolving technologies and security requirements. Their expertise is critical to ensuring the effectiveness and safety of defense systems in challenging environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense electrical engineer?

To thrive as a Defense Electrical Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and systems analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, CAD software, and industry-specific standards, as well as security clearance and certifications like PE (Professional Engineer), are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the development of reliable, secure, and innovative defense solutions that meet stringent safety and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by defense electrical engineers when working on military projects?

Defense Electrical Engineers often navigate complex challenges such as adhering to strict security protocols, meeting rigorous performance and reliability standards, and integrating cutting-edge technologies within legacy defense systems. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers—is essential for ensuring that designs meet project specifications and regulatory compliance. Additionally, they may face tight deadlines and the need to rapidly adapt to evolving defense requirements, making strong problem-solving and communication skills crucial.

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

AspectDefense Electrical EngineerDefense Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, security clearance often requiredBachelor's or higher in Systems Engineering, security clearance often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning electrical components, circuits, and systems for defense applicationsIntegrating and managing complex defense systems, including electrical and software components
Industry UsagePrimarily in electrical hardware development for defense projectsInvolved in system-level integration across multiple engineering disciplines

Defense Electrical Engineers focus on designing and developing electrical hardware and systems for defense applications, while Defense Systems Engineers oversee the integration of various subsystems, including electrical, software, and mechanical components. Both roles require security clearances and collaborate closely in defense projects, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Can defense electrical engineers work in the defense industry?

Yes, defense electrical engineers typically work in the defense industry, designing and developing electronic systems for military applications. They often work on projects involving radar, communication systems, and weapon control, requiring knowledge of military standards and security clearances.

How much do defense electrical engineers make?

Defense electrical engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Salaries can vary based on location, industry sector, and specialized skills such as circuit design or systems integration.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Defense Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Defense Electrical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Electrical Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Electrical Engineer - HIP/Ti-Cast Operation

Howmet Aerospace

Whitehall, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop, modify, and troubleshoot electrical systems, control systems, and automation upgrades related to industrial production.

  • Coordinate, support, and maintain electrical system projects, including installation and management of electrical and control systems.

  • Provide engineering support for projects designed and built both internally and externally.


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

This position will be located in our Plant 5, HIP (Hot Isotopic Press) and Ti-Cast Operations.

Job Roles 

  • Systems thinker--sees the business and its operation holistically; understands actions and reactions; considers multiple pathways of potential effect before decisions; thinks strategically about interventions with an eye toward scale.
  • Optimizer--constantly challenging the organization to work smarter; supports others to ensure they have what they need to do their work successfully.
  • Anticipation--looks ahead to minimize potential issues and maximize advantages; prepares others for what comes next.
  • Operational accelerator--drives continuous improvement; understands ramifications of automation and other advances; advocates for safety, ergonomics, and scalable solutions.
  • Organization and structure--works within existing structures while striving to improve and standardize them; provides accurate information; galvanizes others toward common goals.
  • Influence--leverages knowledge, relationship, data, and perspective to persuade, educate and navigate; gains buy in and adoption of ideas and practices at scale; interacts with a variety of stakeholders.
  • Data informed--focused on things that drive quantifiable business outcomes; evaluates based on quantitative feedback; knows and explains the “why” behind actions.
  • Prioritized reaction--handles the unexpected without losing sight of important objectives; reacts where greatest leverage points exist.
  • Relationship--connects individually and with teams across shifts and practices; builds rapport and commonality; creates a “win together” ethic; serves as liaison between shop floor and engineering; keeps the pulse of the floor; helps people feel heard.

Job Responsibilities

  • Knowledge of facilities electrical distribution, manufacturing process controls, PLC and Logic Systems related to industrial production, and the ability to handle technical issues. Necessary knowledge to develop and make modifications to existing Wonderware / Ignition HMI systems. 
  • Significant management and contractor interactions including design, costing, quoting, and executing electrical systems, control systems and automation upgrades. 
  • Coordination, support, and maintenance including installation of various electrical system projects. 
  • Provide engineering support for projects designed and built both internally and externally. 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering Technology from an accredited institution
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Previous electrical/programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Facility Electrical Power distribution planning (12470Vac – 120Vac)
  • Project PLC programming experience
  • Project Management experience
  • Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Maintenance Management experience
  • Continuous Process Improvement (i.e. Six Sigma Cert)
  • HMI programming experience
  • Experience with Rockwell Automation Allen Bradley PLC & RSLogix programming software
  • Experience with Inductive Automation Ignition SCADA
  • Experience with Rockwell Automation Factory Talk SCADA
  • Experience with Aveva / Wonderware SCADA
  • Knowledge of Electrical distribution systems for voltage below 600V
  • Proficient user of AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical or Solidworks Electrical
  • Experience with industrial robots, Motoman or other
  • Knowledge of NEC, NFPA 70E and NFPA 79 codes

Company Description

Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company’s primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems and titanium structural parts necessary for mission-critical performance and efficiency in aerospace and defense applications, as well as forged wheels for commercial transportation. Howmet Aerospace is transforming the next phase of more fuel-efficient, quieter aerospace engines and sustainable ground transportation. For more information, visit www.howmet.com/joinus


What Howmet Aerospace employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Howmet Aerospace logo

About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888