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Defense Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of radar and hypersonic ... defense. This position is full-time and requires the ability to successfully work in a team ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Crane, IN

$104K - $142K/yr

... systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of radar and hypersonic ... defense. This position is full-time and requires the ability to successfully work in a team ...

Kratos Defense is currently seeking an Engineering Drafter in support of the SPY-1 Radar Program in Crane, Indiana. The Engineering Drafter (Radar Systems / Navy Programs) provides technical drafting ...

The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams of subsystem SMEs, test engineers, and ... Minimum of 5 years of mechanical design and analysis experience in defense, aerospace, or radar ...

As part of the OpenSpace Test team, the Software Test Engineer will support test activities within ... Experience testing complex defense or embedded software systems, ideally within radar, signal ...

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Defense Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$34.2K

$98.6K

$152.8K

How much do defense engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense engineer in Indiana is $98,640.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,651.00 and $122,335.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do Defense Engineers typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during project development?

Defense Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from various disciplines, including software developers, systems analysts, project managers, and manufacturing specialists. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as complex defense projects require integrating multiple technologies and adhering to strict security protocols. Regular meetings, technical reviews, and cross-functional design sessions are common, ensuring that engineering solutions meet both technical requirements and regulatory standards. Being adaptable and open to feedback from different perspectives is key to success in this collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Defense Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectDefense EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Security Clearances often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, Systems or related fields
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agencies, military projectsVarious industries including aerospace, IT, manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military sectorsBroad industry use, including defense, tech, and aerospace
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for technical and security aspectsCompared for project management and system integration skills

Defense Engineers focus on designing and developing military and defense systems, often requiring security clearances and working within defense sectors. Systems Engineers have a broader role in integrating complex systems across various industries, including defense, but with less emphasis on security clearances. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in industry focus and project scope.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defense Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, problem-solving, and systems design, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field and security clearance. Familiarity with CAD software, modeling tools, and knowledge of defense industry standards or certifications like ITAR compliance is often required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities ensure the development of reliable, secure, and innovative defense systems that meet stringent safety and regulatory requirements.

What are Defense Engineers?

Defense Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain technologies and systems used for national defense and security. Their work may include developing weapons, surveillance equipment, communications systems, and protective gear for military use. They often collaborate with government agencies and defense contractors to ensure that products meet stringent safety and performance standards. Defense Engineers apply principles from fields such as mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering to solve complex challenges related to defense technology.
What are popular job titles related to Defense Engineer jobs in Indiana? For Defense Engineer jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Engineer jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Defense Engineer jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Defense Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Engineer job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,640 per year, or $47.4 per hour.
Systems Engineer

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

5-D Systems, a KRATOS Company, is seeking a highly motivated candidate who will provide full lifecycle systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of radar and hypersonic technology programs in aerospace and defense. This position is full-time and requires the ability to successfully work in a team environment. The successful candidate will understand and have experience applying the full systems engineering lifecycle, and must be able to develop requirements, create system design documentation, generate, utilize and maintain Cameo models. This position will interface with internal and external project team members, company leadership, and customers.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Analyzing customer/stakeholder requirements, decomposing requirements, deriving requirements, and allocating requirements to system and subsystem elements
  • Developing system architectures for new and existing systems
  • Conducting trade studies and performing design research of engineering concepts and explorations to determine optimal requirements and system architecture
  • Developing system/subsystem design documentation such as interface definitions, system schematics, and system description documents
  • Developing and executing system verification
  • Developing MBSE processes, procedures, templates, and best practices
  • Developing, reviewing, and presenting Cameo models to internal and external stakeholders
  • Leading or supporting system engineering technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR)
  • Assisting in preparation of proposals and presentation materials
  • Performing peer reviews of fellow team members' work
  • Developing and reviewing test plans and reports
  • Supporting the planning and execution of various kinds of testing including hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL), subsystem and system testing
  • Traveling to customer locations as needed (<25% anticipated)

The successful candidate has:

  • Experience developing system requirements, system designs, and verification documentation
  • Experience working within the Defense and/or Aerospace industry is a must
  • Experience in radar systems and/or hypersonics is desired; experience in unmanned aircraft systems is a plus
  • Experience with MBSE and Cameo is highly desired
  • Sharp analytical abilities, excellent communication skills, and can work effectively in a dynamic environment
  • Demonstrated technical leadership capabilities
  • Sense of ownership, urgency, and drive to accomplish results

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline from an accredited engineering university
  • 5-10 years of relevant industry experience
  • A U.S. DoD Secret Clearance or higher (or the ability to obtain such a clearance if needed)