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Defense Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Prior exposure to aerospace, defense, or high performance systems (internship, project team, lab environment, etc.). * Hands-on integration experience with hardware and/or software systems

Prior exposure to aerospace, defense, or high performance systems (internship, project team, lab environment, etc.). * Hands-on integration experience with hardware and/or software systems

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY: The Test Engineer will lead system integration and test activities for ... Experience developing and executing detailed test procedures for complex aerospace, defense, or ...

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY: The Test Engineer will lead system integration and test activities for ... Experience developing and executing detailed test procedures for complex aerospace, defense, or ...

Cybersecurity Defense Analyst - Senior

Columbus, IN · On-site

$93K - $120K/yr

Support the engineering and development of remedial workflows for findings generated by adversarial ... and defensive security functions. To be successful in this role you will need the following:

Showing results 21-40

Defense Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$34.2K

$98.6K

$152.8K

How much do defense engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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 is a defense engineer?

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,640 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

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 and documentation support for U.S. Navy radar systems, subassemblies, and shipboard equipment. This role converts engineering concepts, field-service findings, depot-level repair data, and legacy Navy technical documentation into accurate, configuration-controlled drawing packages. The Drafter collaborates with radar engineers, technicians, logistics teams, and manufacturing personnel to support modernization, sustainment, and restoration of Navy radar capabilities.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Radar & Navy System Drafting

  • Prepare, update, and maintain detailed drawings for radar components, cabinets, arrays, phase shifter drivers (PSD), power supplies, waveguides, cabling, cooling systems, and electronic modules.
  • Generate mechanical, electrical, and electro-mechanical drawings that align with U.S. Navy technical data requirements and applicable MIL-STDs.
  • Translate engineering notes, depot repair observations, reverse-engineered components, and GFI technical manuals into formal drawing packages.

Support for Sustainment, Harvesting & Depot Repairs

  • Create or revise documentation supporting equipment harvesting, cabinet restoration, 2M-level repairs, and end-of-life component replacements.
  • Build drawing packages to support reassembly, refurbishment, and test of radar equipment (e.g., SPY-1 or similar Navy systems).
  • Develop or update BOMs, install drawings, wiring diagrams, schematics, and cable harness documentation for radar subsystems.

Engineering Collaboration

  • Work closely with radar engineers, field technicians, and manufacturing leads to resolve discrepancies and ensure technical accuracy.
  • Integrate redlines from engineering walkdowns, ship checks, depot reviews, and government review cycles.
  • Participate in drawing reviews, design reviews, and CM/DM boards.

Configuration Management & Documentation Control

  • Maintain drawing control within CM/DM systems such as PTC Windchill or equivalent.
  • Manage revisions, ECO/ECR workflows, and metadata updates to ensure compliance with program baselines.
  • Ensure documentation aligns with MIL-STD-31000, NAVSEA drafting standards, and other applicable Navy data deliverables.

Technical Data Generation & Compliance

  • Support creation of drawing packages required for Logistics Product Data (LPD), technical manuals, provisioning, maintenance procedures, and government deliverables.
  • Ensure all drafting work meets DoD, NAVSEA, and program-specific formatting, marking, and classification requirements.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Proficiency in CAD platforms such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CREO, or Inventor.
  • Ability to read and interpret radar drawings, Navy technical manuals, schematics, block diagrams, wiring diagrams, and legacy MIL-SPEC documentation.
  • Understanding of shipboard cable routing, enclosure design, radar cooling architecture, grounding/bonding standards, and EMI/EMC considerations.
  • Familiarity with DoD/Navy technical data practices and configuration management workflows.
  • Experience working with legacy and modern Navy radar systems preferred (e.g., AN/SPY-1, SPS-49, SPQ-9B, illumination radars, signal processors, antenna arrays).
  • Strong ability to apply GD&T and ASME Y14 drafting standards.
 

 REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

  • Associate degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field OR equivalent hands-on engineering drafting experience.
  • 3+ years drafting mechanical and/or electrical components for defense, aerospace, naval, or radar systems.
  • Experience creating drawing packages supporting manufacturing, repair, or sustainment activities.
 

 DESIRED / PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

  • Prior experience supporting NAVSEA, PEO IWS, NSWC, defense contractors, or Fleet sustainment programs.
  • Experience drafting components related to antenna arrays, signal processors, radar cabinets, or shipboard power systems.
  • Background or familiarity with 2M repair standards, test stations, or electronics refurbishment is highly desirable.
  • Experience producing drawings from legacy Navy technical data or incomplete documentation (reverse engineering).
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance (Top Secret preferred for some radar programs).
 

 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. Citizenship required due to DoD contract obligations.
  • Ability to handle sensitive and classified information per Navy and DoD requirements.
  • Ability to support occasional travel to shipyards, government test sites, or radar facilities for walkdowns or data collection.

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