1

Defense Engineering Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 41-60

Defense Engineering information

See Alabama salary details

$11

$28

$52

How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense engineering in Alabama is $28.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $34.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a defense engineer do?

A defense engineer designs, develops, and tests military systems, equipment, and technologies such as weapons, communication systems, and defense infrastructure. They often work with specialized tools, adhere to strict safety and security standards, and may require security clearances and knowledge of engineering principles, materials, and systems integration.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in defense engineering, and how can they be managed?

Defense Engineering professionals often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technology requirements, strict regulatory compliance, and the need to maintain confidentiality on sensitive projects. Managing these challenges requires adaptability, strong communication skills for cross-functional collaboration, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Building strong relationships with team members and staying current with industry best practices can help engineers effectively navigate these complexities and contribute to successful project outcomes.

What is defense engineering?

Defense engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on designing, developing, and maintaining systems, equipment, and technologies used by the military and defense organizations. This includes everything from vehicles, weapons, and protective equipment to advanced communication and surveillance systems. Defense engineers work to ensure these technologies are reliable, effective, and meet strict safety and regulatory standards. They often collaborate with government agencies, private contractors, and multidisciplinary teams to address evolving security and defense challenges.

What is the difference between Defense Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectDefense EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, security clearances often requiredBachelor's or higher in mechanical engineering, professional licensure optional
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agencies, secure facilitiesManufacturing plants, research labs, design firms
Industry UsageMilitary, defense technology, aerospaceAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy

Defense Engineering and Mechanical Engineering share foundational engineering principles, but Defense Engineering focuses on developing military and security systems within secure environments, often requiring security clearances. Mechanical Engineering has a broader application across industries like automotive and aerospace, with less emphasis on security. Both roles demand strong technical skills, but Defense Engineering emphasizes specialized knowledge related to defense technology and security protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense engineer?

To thrive as a Defense Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, systems integration, and security protocols, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and security clearance. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, project management systems, and compliance with defense industry standards such as ITAR or DoD regulations is essential. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of defense systems while meeting strict regulatory and operational requirements.
Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,481 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

SENIOR MISSILE DEFENSE INTEGRATION ENGINEER

Ignite Fueling Innovation

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Igniters operate in the world's most demanding environment. Igniters are self-motivated, mission-driven, and relentless in solving the Warfighters' hardest problems. We move fast, think differently, and execute with precision to tackle high-stakes challenges across AI/ML, space and missile defense intelligence, EMSO, advanced analytics, and programmatic domains.

As an employee-owned SDVOSB headquartered in Huntsville, AL, our team delivers mission-critical impact for the Army, Air Force, Space Force, MDA, NASA, DIA, and FBI. Ignite exists to outpace the threat and deliver results that matter in the moments that count. Ignite is currently seeking a Senior Missile Defense Integration Engineer to join our team.

In this role you will provide Systems Engineering Technical Assistance to the Ground-based Midcourse Dense (GMD) Product Office under the Teams-Next Missile Defense Systems Engineering (TN-MDSE) contract managed by the Missile Defense Agency.Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Develop and modify fielding, modification, and integration procedures for elements of the GMD Weapon System Coordinate with Prime contractor development, and contractor/Government fielding and configuration management teams to generate, implement, and monitor configuration management in support of the GMD Weapon System Integration (WSI) Program Office Support planning, coordination, and execution of GMD WSI test activities Support and lead multi-disciplinary Technical Interchange Meetings (TIM) and Working Groups (WG) with missile defense Government and Industry partners Coordinate and support execution of TIMs and/or WGs in the absence of Government Product Office Chairs. Document activities, actions, and Executive Summaries of structural analysis TIMs and WGs. Job Requirements and Qualifications: Required Qualifications Active Secret Clearance required MS STEM degree and 12+ years of related professional experience in mechanical/aerospace structural analysis Demonstrated experience with Ground-based Missile Defense interceptors, launch or ground systems Demonstrated experience testing complex military weapon systems (Test Management and/or Test Conductor experience Highly Desired) Ability to work independently and as part of an integrated Govt/Industry multi-disciplinary team Excellent written and oral communication skills

Desired Qualifications Active Top Secret Clearance or eligibility for TS upgrade as required Demonstrated experience with Missile Defense Agency managed weapon systems Demonstrated experience with complex weapon system checkout procedures. Security Clearance Requirements: Must have an active Secret Security Clearance Education Requirements: Master's DegreeResponsibilities include, but are not limited to: Develop and modify fielding, modification, and integration procedures for elements of the GMD Weapon System Coordinate with Prime contractor development, and contractor/Government fielding and configuration management teams to generate, implement, and monitor configuration management in support of the GMD Weapon System Integration (WSI) Program Office Support planning, coordination, and execution of GMD WSI test activities Support and lead multi-disciplinary Technical Interchange Meetings (TIM) and Working Groups (WG) with missile defense Government and Industry partners Coordinate and support execution of TIMs and/or WGs in the absence of Government Product Office Chairs. Document activities, actions, and Executive Summaries of structural analysis TIMs and WGs.

Job Requirements and Qualifications: Required Qualifications Active Secret Clearance required MS STEM degree and 12+ years of related professional experience in mechanical/aerospace structural analysis Demonstrated experience with Ground-based Missile Defense interceptors, launch or ground systems Demonstrated experience testing complex military weapon systems (Test Management and/or Test Conductor experience Highly Desired) Ability to work independently and as part of an integrated Govt/Industry multi-disciplinary team Excellent written and oral communication skills. Desired Qualifications Active Top Secret Clearance or eligibility for TS upgrade as required Demonstrated experience with Missile Defense Agency managed weapon systems Demonstrated experience with complex weapon system checkout procedures. Security Clearance Requirements: Must have an active Secret Security Clearance Education Requirements: Master's Degree.