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Defense Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Senior Defense Software Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$114K - $151K/yr

The Defense Senior Software Engineer is accountable for the development of software for both internal Roush projects and external customers. The role will perform requirements gathering, software ...

Senior Defense Software Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

The Defense Senior Software Engineer is accountable for the development of software for both internal Roush projects and external customers. The role will perform requirements gathering, software ...

Systems Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Detroit Defense is seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to serve as the Technical Lead for a newly developed product for our military customer. This is a high ...

Systems Engineer

Troy, MI

$125K - $145K/yr

Description Detroit Defense is seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to serve as the Technical Lead for a newly developed product for our military customer. This is a high visibility position that ...

Sr. System Engineer - GM Defense IT

Warren, MI · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

GM Defense IT is seeking a Sr. System Engineer to support critical GM Defense work by leading and executing systems engineering activities across secure and regulated environments. This role will ...

Sr. System Engineer - GM Defense IT

Warren, MI · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

GM Defense IT is seeking a Sr. System Engineer to support critical GM Defense work by leading and executing systems engineering activities across secure and regulated environments. This role will ...

Sr. System Engineer - GM Defense IT

Warren, MI · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

GM Defense IT is seeking a Sr. System Engineer to support critical GM Defense work by leading and executing systems engineering activities across secure and regulated environments. This role will ...

Showing results 21-40

Defense Engineer information

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 Michigan are hiring for Defense Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Defense Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution.

Software Project Lead-Defense

Oshkosh Corporation

Hudson, MI • On-site

$92K - $154K/yr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

288th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About Pratt Miller, an Oshkosh company
Pratt Miller is a product development company in motorsports, defense, and mobility industries providing clients with product engineering and low-volume production solutions. Our range of research & development, engineering, prototype manufacturing, test & validation, and low-rate production capability help our customers bring their high-quality products to market faster.
Pratt Miller is seeking a qualified Software Project Lead to join our team, supporting a variety of software projects across the defense industry. This position will contribute to the development of software solutions, working in a collaborative team environment to deliver high-quality products throughout the full product lifecycle. The Software Project Lead will collaborate closely with engineering and manufacturing teams, as well as with external partners, to ensure successful delivery of software solutions in defense engineering projects. A successful candidate will be a self-starter with strong technical expertise and a focus on continuous improvement.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & SKILLS:
Typical responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Implement, verify, and deliver software solutions individually or as part of a team.
  • Collaborate with project teams to support software solutions across defense initiatives.
  • Promote adherence to process, patterns, practices, and technologies for delivering solutions.
  • Collaborate with the Technical Lead to identify the technology and skills needed for solution delivery.
  • Participate in requirements gathering sessions with stakeholders to provide insights into potential solutions.
  • Work effectively with both internal and external teams, including remote partners.
  • Ensure the execution of code reviews, design reviews, and product requirement discussions.
  • Use agile methodologies to manage workflows and improve team productivity.
  • Demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, tackling challenges with minimal guidance and demonstrating an entrepreneurial mindset.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
  • Advanced degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 5+ years of experience in software engineering or related field.
  • Experience in the defense or aerospace industry is a plus but not required.
  • Familiarity with Agile frameworks and working in engineering prototype environments.
  • Experience with Agile practices in the delivery of technical software solutions.
  • Knowledge of software engineering practices, including CI/CD, unit testing, and version control.
  • Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform) and simulation tools is a plus.
  • Knowledge of defense-specific requirements and experience with DoD projects is a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Position requires occasional or frequent moderate physical activity.

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:
  • Daytime schedule Monday-Friday with flexibility to work longer hours and weekends during peak project deliverable durations or offsite testing trips.
  • Work will be onsite in New Hudson, MI
  • Monthly travel may be required and will vary based on project requirements.

Pay Range:
$92,600.00 - $154,400.00
The above pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Within this range, individual pay is determined by various factors, including the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, education and skills, as well as the equity of pay among team members in similar positions. Beyond offering a competitive total rewards package, we prioritize a people-first culture and offer various opportunities to support team member growth and success.
Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact our talent acquisition team by email
Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.
Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.
Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.

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