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Defense Engineer Jobs in Manchester, NH (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer

Andover, MA ยท On-site

$82.21/hr

Mechanical Engineer LOCATION: Andover, MA PAY RATE: $82.21/hour We are a national aerospace and ... Aerospace / Defense / Aviation * Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna) * Perks: Bonus ...

This is an exciting opportunity to work on advanced defense programs while collaborating with engineering, manufacturing, and cross-functional teams in a highly technical environment. If you're an ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Manchester, NH ยท On-site

$138K - $169K/yr

An electrical engineering background with experience in military and defense markets is ideal, but ... other technical expertise will be considered. The ideal candidate can work in a collaborative ...

Professional experience in the aerospace/defense industry is desired. * Professional experience in ... Our clients engineer a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that ...

Professional experience in the aerospace/defense industry is desired. * Professional experience in ... Our clients engineer a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that ...

The Panther Group is seeking an experienced RF Engineer to support a leading aerospace and defense manufacturer in Chelmsford, MA. This is an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge RF and ...

Manufacturing Engineer II

Hudson, NH ยท On-site

$73K - $95K/yr

As a Manufacturing Engineer in the Defense and Aerospace industry, your primary responsibility will be to develop and improve manufacturing processes and systems to ensure the efficient and cost ...

Manufacturing Engineer II

Hudson, NH ยท On-site

$73K - $95K/yr

As a Manufacturing Engineer in the Defense and Aerospace industry, your primary responsibility will be to develop and improve manufacturing processes and systems to ensure the efficient and cost ...

Manufacturing Engineer II

Hudson, NH

$73K - $95K/yr

As a Manufacturing Engineer in the Defense and Aerospace industry, your primary responsibility will be to develop and improve manufacturing processes and systems to ensure the efficient and cost ...

Showing results 21-40

Defense Engineer information

See Manchester, NH salary details

$35.9K

$103.4K

$160.1K

How much do defense engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense engineer in Manchester, NH is $103,373.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,137.00 and $128,205.00 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 are popular job titles related to Defense Engineer jobs in Manchester, NH?

For Defense Engineer jobs in Manchester, NH, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Engineer jobs in Manchester, NH look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Engineer jobs in Manchester, NH are:

Infographic showing various Defense Engineer job openings in Manchester, NH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,373 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

CNC Programmer - Aerospace & Defense

Costello/April Design, Inc.

Exeter, NH โ€ข On-site

$27 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

The CNC Programmer develops complete machining solutions for precision aluminum components used in the aerospace and defense industries. This position is responsible for planning machining strategies, designing workholding and fixturing, creating CNC programs and setup documentation, and supporting production to ensure safe, efficient, and repeatable manufacturing processes. Successful candidates enjoy solving manufacturing challenges, collaborating across departments, and continuously improving quality and productivity.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Review customer and internal drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements to develop accurate and efficient machining strategies.
  • Design workholding, fixturing, and custom tooling to support safe, repeatable and efficient CNC machining processes.
  • Develop CNC programs, setup documentation, and associated manufacturing documentation required to support a repeatable manufacturing process.
  • Select cutting tools, machining strategies, and operation sequences to optimize quality, cycle time and manufacturability.
  • Create detailed manufacturing drawings for custom tooling and workholding using SolidWorks.
  • Develop probing routines and macro programs to support machining, inspection, and process automation as required.
  • Support CNC machining operations during setup, prove-out, and production by troubleshooting machining issues and implementing program improvements.
  • Maintain CNC programs, documentation, and revision history in accordance with company standards.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives through process optimization, legacy program improvements, and cycle time reduction.
  • Collaborate with CNC Machining, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and fellow CNC Programmers to develop robust manufacturing processes and drive successful project execution.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

  • 3+ Years of CNC milling programming using CAM Software
  • SolidWorks, or parametric modeling software
  • GD&T Interpretation and blueprint reading
  • Microsoft Office
  • Process planning, setup documentation, and manufacturing documentation.
  • Strong verbal and written communication
  • Ability to work in team environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot machining processes.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:

  • CAMWorks
  • Mazak and FANUC controller experience
  • Aerospace machining experience
  • CNC Lathe programming
  • Macro programming
  • Renishaw probing

WHAT WE OFFER:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Additional 40 hours of Sick Time
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Competitive 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions
  • Education reimbursement program for professional development
  • Climate-controlled facility
  • Subsidized vending and on-site break areas
  • Complimentary coffee and refreshments
  • Clean, modern work environment with advanced equipment and technology
  • Opportunities for career growth within a stable, growing aerospace manufacturing organization

ABOUT HEICO:ย 

Heico has a history of success. Since its founding over 40 years ago The Heico Companies has grown from a single business to over 80 separate companies through a strategic acquisition policy, and by reinvesting its earnings into internal growth and new prospects. Historically talented at restoring distressed companies, Heico now strategically targets acquisitions that will complement its ever-growing portfolio of companies in manufacturing, construction, and industrial services.

ย These four core operations are organized into groups: Metal Processing Group, Construction Solutions Group, Applied Solutions Group, and Industrial Technologies Group. Once acquired, new Heico companies are assigned to a group and run on a stand-alone basis, allowing for great independence as well as the opportunity to share knowledge about markets, production processes, and management practices across other Heico groups and companies. Each Group has its own corporate team.

ย Heico continues to seek out new opportunities and maintain its standard of success. The Heico Companies has remained a privately held company since its creation and maintains a majority ownership in each of its operations, which generates more than $3.3 billion dollars in revenues. Many of our businesses are certified Woman-owned Business Enterprises (WBE).

ย More information about the holding company and overall organization can be found at www.heicocompanies.com.