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Defense Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Weld Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$34.25 - $47.25/hr

Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it ... Title: Weld Engineer Reports To: Manufacturing Engineer Manager Job Summary: We are seeking a ...

Weld Engineer

Cincinnati, OH

$34.25 - $47.25/hr

Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it ... Title: Weld Engineer Reports To: Manufacturing Engineer Manager Job Summary: We are seeking a ...

FEC Weld Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$34.25 - $47.25/hr

Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it ... The Weld Engineer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining welding ...

Quality Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it ... Quality Engineer Job Profile/Summary The Quality Engineer will be responsible for inspection ...

Showing results 41-60

Defense Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$33.4K

$96.2K

$149K

How much do defense engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense engineer in Ohio is $96,187.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,844.00 and $119,292.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

How much do defense engineers get paid?

Defense engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in systems, cybersecurity, or missile defense can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.
Infographic showing various Defense Engineer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,187 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

FEC Electrical Engineer

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it's the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it's like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: https://www.fairbanksmorsedefense.com/careers
Position Title: Electrical Engineer
Reports To: Director of Engineering
Position Summary:
Federal Equipment Company has been a leading supplier for marine deck machinery and specialized weapons and material handling systems. Through the years the company has emerged into an internationally recognized organization with extensive expertise in marine design/engineering and manufacturing of critical shipboard systems. The company, now part of Fairbanks Morse Defense, is rapidly growing and in need of a Principal Engineer. This position is responsible for ensuring technical excellence in engineering deliverables and thus customer satisfaction throughout the Engineering deliverables to internal and external customers.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Technical review authority for all FEC military products
  • Facilitates design review processes
  • Assists Business Development in preparing estimates, proposals, and customer negotiation
  • Assists Program Managers with risk assessment and mitigation strategies
  • Technical mentorship for junior engineers
  • Serve as lead engineer for small number (1-3) high profile projects
  • Assist senior management with advisement on strategic decisions i.e. capital equipment, growth markets
  • Maintain/build working relationship with counterparts at key customers
  • Subject matter expertise in technical discipline

Qualifications, Skills and Educational Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
  • Graduate Degree (technical or business) preferred
  • 10+ years' experience in designing and manufacturing machinery
    • Preference for naval deck machinery i.e. elevators, winches, hoists, cranes, doors, hull closures, hatches in support of naval shipbuilding
  • Expert proficiency in detailed engineering design of electromechanical products
  • Familiarity with MIL specifications, 3D CAD, PLM, PLC and VFD programming, and testing.
  • Project/Program management experience preferred.
  • Must possess a high level of verbal and written communications skills along with interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment.
  • Must possess strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Results-oriented with willingness to take responsibility and initiative.
  • Demonstrated leadership and problem-solving capabilities.
  • Able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Proficient in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Strong work ethic with the ability to maintain a positive attitude in a fast-paced, growth environment.
  • Proven ability to establish effective working relationships at all levels.
  • Excellent organizational, analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Note: This position requires access or potential access to Unclassified Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information, which is Not Releasable to Foreign Nationals (NOFORN) data. Therefore, to meet NOFORN requirement, you will have to provide proof of US Citizenship and attest that you do not have dual citizenship. Acceptable proof of US Citizenship is a US Passport, US Birth Certificate or Naturalization Certificate.
This specification is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty that will be required of positions that will be given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his/her supervision. Ability to competently perform all the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, demonstrated commitment to effective customer service delivery, and the ability to work productively as a member of a team or work group are basic requirements of all positions at Fairbanks Morse Defense.
Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled