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$12

$29

$53

How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense engineering in Arizona is $29.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $35.38 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

In defense engineering, senior engineers such as aerospace, systems, or electrical engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and security clearances can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand sectors or with leadership roles. These positions often require specialized knowledge, advanced degrees, and certifications, and may involve working on complex projects or managing teams.

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, and why are they important?

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.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In defense engineering, senior roles such as defense program managers, chief engineers, or high-level consultants can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, security clearances, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and extensive industry experience, and may include bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives.

What engineers make $500,000?

In defense engineering, senior roles such as systems engineers, program managers, and lead engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. These positions often require security clearances, leadership abilities, and expertise in areas like missile defense, cybersecurity, or aerospace systems.
What are popular job titles related to Defense Engineering jobs in Arizona? For Defense Engineering jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Engineering jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Engineering jobs in Arizona are:
Defense Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,154 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Manufacturing Engineer IV (MANUF005837)

Manufacturing Engineer IV (MANUF005837)

SARGENT AEROSPACE & DEFENSE

Tucson, AZ

$125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

SARGENT AEROSPACE & DEFENSE
With continual growth comes opportunity and Sargent has an immediate opening for a Manufacturing Engineer ME IV to join our Marine Hydraulics team.
Responsibilities
  • Ensure safety is the foundation of daily work through vigilance and accountability
  • Model safe behavior at all times
  • Promote a culture of Continual Improvement by utilizing Lean Six Sigma methodologies to drive quality improvements, reduce manufacturing cost, minimize waste and improve efficiency
  • Supports the ME team at all levels & operations with required technical and general support
  • Interpret and maintain manufacturing process documentation (i.e. routers, RWPs)
  • Evaluate and disposition non-conforming product
  • Provide technical data for front end business activities
  • Evaluate supplier issues and provide technical guidance
  • Perform Engineering analysis to determine Root Cause and implement Corrective Actions
  • Identify new technologies to improve process capability, and increase process controls
  • Review engineering designs and documentation for manufacturability
  • Define manufacturing processes and maintain detailed manufacturing instructions for complex manufacturing product
  • Design tooling & fixtures for manufacturing and validation of product
  • Coordinate the acquisition and implementation of capital equipment/expenditures
  • Implement process documentation and provide training for production personnel
  • Actively participate in the engineering change process
  • Other duties and responsibilities as assigned

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field plus 7 years as a Manufacturing Engineer OR a Master's degree in Engineering and 5 year of related technical experience OR an Associate degree in Engineering or related technical field plus 9 years of manufacturing engineering related experience OR in lieu of a degree, minimum of 12 years of manufacturing engineering related experience and high school diploma or GED
  • Read and interpret assembly drawings, procedures and ensure blue print compliance
  • Advanced Knowledge and utilization of GD&T, schematics and relevant test and inspection equipment
  • Advanced Knowledge and utilization of solid modeling
  • Expert Knowledge and utilization of Lean and Six Sigma Principles
  • Demonstrated and documented cost savings projects - annual savings 125k
  • Demonstrated hands on abilities through employment or personal projects
  • Attendance and punctuality at work are essential functions of this position
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen

Preferred Qualifications
  • 15 years of experience in hydraulic systems
  • Experience in a Manufacturing Aerospace, Defense or other regulated industry
  • Experience in the implementation/utilization of Lean and Six Sigma Principles
  • Lean/six sigma (black) belt certification

Join the Sargent Legacy in Securing Our Future
RBC Bearings Incorporated (NYSE: RBC/RBCP) is a leading international manufacturer of highly engineered precision bearings, components and essential systems for the industrial, defense and aerospace industries. Founded in 1919, the Company is primarily focused on producing highly technical and/or regulated bearing products and components requiring sophisticated design, testing and manufacturing capabilities for the diversified industrial, aerospace and defense markets. RBC currently has 56 facilities, of which 37 are manufacturing facilities in ten countries and the market capitalization is approximately $6.2 billion.
In 2015, RBC acquired Sargent Aerospace and Defense.
Founded in 1920, Sargent Aerospace & Defense leverages 100 years of expertise as a premier global supplier of precision engineered customized components that directly contributes to the safe operation of countless commercial and military aircraft, rotorcraft, submarines and land-based vehicles.
At Sargent, our mission is to secure our future by making the challenging a reality. We achieve this by delivering high quality products and services that meet customer requirements and exceed customer expectations through employee development, customer focus and continual improvement.
Sargent's continuing investment in people, assets, technology, and process quality ensures excellence and is integral to the company's commitment to customers and their end-users. As we grow, we will continue to root our culture through our core values of Integrity, Respects & Values People, Customer Focus, Teamwork, Results Focus and Continual Improvement.
Company Benefits Include:
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Bonus platforms
  • Holidays/Vacation/Sick Time
  • 401k Savings & Investment Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement

  • Medical/Dental/Vision Plans
  • HSA/FSA
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • Accident/Hospital/Critical Care Plans
  • Pet Insurance

  • Gym & Rideshare Incentives
  • Legal Insurance/Identity Theft
  • ½ day Fridays

Dedication to our core values. Our must haves...
  • Integrity - We do the right thing the right way. Our ideal candidate is ethical, honest in all interactions, delivers good news and bad, and follows through on commitments. Key Skills & Abilities is fair, credible, confidential, fiscally responsible and accountable for decisions and actions.
  • Respects and Values People - We encourage and bring out the potential of others. Our ideal candidate embraces diversity, recognizes and supports the accomplishments, talents and development of others. Key Skills & Abilities is committed to the building of strong relationships and creates an environment of trust and mutual respect.
  • Customer Focus - We act with excellence in each and every interaction. Our ideal candidate builds strong internal/external customer relationships and goes above and beyond to deliver high quality products and services on time, every time. Key Skills & Abilities is responsive with strong customer service skills, product and job knowledge to provide excellent customer satisfaction.
  • Teamwork - We are better together. Our ideal candidate is inclusive, engaged and collaborative, sharing information, ideas and experiences to accomplish goals, improve decision making and leverage capabilities. Key Skills & Abilities is a dependable team player, demonstrated through attendance and punctuality, works well with others and has strong communication skills (both oral & written) to keep all stakeholders informed.
  • Results Focus - We focus on the outcome, not the obstacle. Our ideal candidate must have a strong work ethic with a results/performance driven track record in a fast paced, changing and challenging environment. Key Skills & Abilities is adaptable, works with a sense of urgency and high level of initiative and demonstrates a commitment to quality with attention to detail.
  • Continual Improvement - We encourage and drive innovation. Our ideal candidate must be naturally curious, passionate and never satisfied with the status quo. Key Skills & Abilities is innovative and has a problem-solving mindset that provides and implements CI ideas.

We offer competitive compensation and excellent benefits including Medical, Dental, and company matched 401k plan.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.
EEO/AA/F/M/VET/DISABLED

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