1

Defense Engineer Jobs in Manchester, NH (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer - NPI & Test Development 603 Manufacturing | Precision Cable & Electro-Mechanical ... Space, Aerospace & Defense Compliance * Support programs requiring IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 ...

Process Engineer - NPI & Test Development 603 Manufacturing | Precision Cable & Electro-Mechanical ... Space, Aerospace & Defense Compliance * Support programs requiring IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 ...

Senior FPGA Engineer

Manchester, NH ยท On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

In this role, the engineer will lead FPGA design, simulation, integration, and debugging efforts for complex electro-optical systems primarily used in defense applications. Experience Required * 10+ ...

Lead Hardware Engineer - Remote

Concord, NH ยท On-site

$108K - $150K/yr

Lead Hardware Engineer - Remote Curtiss-Wright is growing and has multiple openings for experienced Lead Hardware Engineer to join our Defense Solutions Group. This role involves leading the design ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Plaistow, NH ยท On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Spartronics- Senior Manufacturing Engineer- Hands On Plaistow, NH | Electronics Manufacturing | Aerospace & Defense Focus Work Hours: Monday-Thursday 6:30am-4pm, Friday ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Plaistow, NH ยท On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Spartronics- Senior Manufacturing Engineer- Hands On Plaistow, NH | Electronics Manufacturing | Aerospace & Defense Focus Work Hours: Monday-Thursday 6:30am-4pm, Friday 7-11am About Spartronics ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Plaistow, NH ยท On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Spartronics- Senior Manufacturing Engineer- Hands On Plaistow, NH Electronics Manufacturing Aerospace & Defense Focus Work Hours: Monday-Thursday 6:30am-4pm, Friday 7 ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Plaistow, NH ยท On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Spartronics- Senior Manufacturing Engineer- Hands On Plaistow, NH | Electronics Manufacturing | Aerospace & Defense Focus Work Hours: Monday-Thursday 6:30am-4pm, Friday ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 8, 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.

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.

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 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,373 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

603 Process Engineer

Trexon

Hudson, NH โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Process Engineer - NPI & Test Development
603 Manufacturing | Precision Cable & Electro-Mechanical Assembly
603 Manufacturing is seeking a highly organized, technically capable Process Engineer to join our New Product Introduction (NPI) team. This role is responsible for developing robust manufacturing processes, creating standardized production documentation, supporting new product introductions, and owning cable and wire harness electrical test development.
The successful candidate will become the primary owner of Cirris CH2 test programming and validation. Prior Cirris experience is beneficial but not required for candidates with strong process engineering and electrical test fundamentals.
This position works closely with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, and customers supporting high-reliability aerospace, defense, and space programs.
What You'll Do
  • Lead the introduction of new cable assemblies, wire harnesses, and electro-mechanical assemblies into production.
  • Review engineering drawings, schematics, BOMs, and customer specifications.
  • Develop manufacturing processes that support repeatability, quality, and throughput.
  • Participate in first-piece and prototype builds, documenting lessons learned and process improvements.
  • Identify tooling, fixturing, and equipment requirements for new programs.
  • Create and maintain manufacturing work instructions, visual aids, process documentation, and standardized templates.
  • Establish process controls, inspection points, and quality checkpoints.
  • Document first article builds, process validations, and manufacturing best practices.
Electrical Test Development
  • Develop and maintain electrical test procedures for cable and wire harness assemblies.
  • Create and validate Cirris CH2 test programs based on engineering drawings, schematics, netlists, and customer requirements.
  • Support continuity, isolation, hipot, resistance, and component verification testing.
  • Troubleshoot test failures and support root cause investigations.
  • Maintain revision control of test programs and associated documentation.
  • Standardize test development methodologies across product families.
Space, Aerospace & Defense Compliance
  • Support programs requiring IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 workmanship standards and Space Addendum requirements.
  • Interpret customer flow-down requirements and special process requirements.
  • Develop documentation supporting traceability, configuration control, and audit readiness.
  • Support First Article Inspections (FAI) and customer audits.
  • Ensure manufacturing and test processes meet customer quality and reliability expectations.
Continuous Improvement
  • Drive improvements in manufacturing efficiency, documentation quality, testing methods, and process controls.
  • Reduce process variation and improve manufacturing repeatability.
  • Support corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives.
Qualifications
Required
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Electronics Technology, or related field.
  • 3+ years of manufacturing engineering, process engineering, test engineering, or NPI experience.
  • Experience with cable assemblies, wire harnesses, or electro-mechanical assemblies.
  • Ability to interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and engineering drawings.
  • Experience developing manufacturing processes, work instructions, and production documentation.
  • Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.
  • Excellent technical documentation and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing teams.
Preferred
  • Experience supporting aerospace, defense, or space programs.
  • Familiarity with electrical test equipment and automated cable/harness testing systems.
  • Experience with Cirris CH2 or similar cable and harness test platforms.
  • IPC/WHMA-A-620 certification or demonstrated experience.
  • Experience with AS9100 quality systems.
  • Familiarity with First Article Inspection (AS9102).
  • Understanding of configuration management and revision control.
  • Experience with ERP, PLM, or MES systems.
  • Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience.
What Success Looks Like
  • New products transition efficiently from prototype to production.
  • Manufacturing documentation is standardized, complete, and easy to follow.
  • First-piece builds are thoroughly documented and captured for future production.
  • Electrical test programs are accurate, reliable, and released on schedule.
  • Processes consistently meet customer quality, traceability, and reliability requirements.
  • Production teams have the tools and documentation needed to build it right the first time.
Why 603 Manufacturing?
We support customers operating in environments where failure is not an option. Our products support aerospace, defense, and space applications that demand exceptional workmanship, process control, and attention to detail. If you are passionate about developing manufacturing processes, building robust test systems, and helping launch high-reliability products, we would like to talk with you.
About 603 Manufacturing
Located in Hudson, NH, 603 Manufacturing, a Trexon company, opened for business in 1998. We are an awarded manufacturer of cable assemblies and electro-mechanical assemblies. 603 Manufacturing is truly a diversified contract manufacturer, servicing the Defense, Aerospace, Industrial, Medical & Commercial industries. We offer a comprehensive benefit package including a 9/80 work schedule.
603 Manufacturing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. 603 Manufacturing is an E-Verify Participant. Pre-employment drug/alcohol/background screening is required.

Trexon logo

About Trexon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Macedonia, OH, US

Year founded

2021