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Defense Engineering Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Auria Space offers aerospace and defense engineering services. Founded in 2000, the company is headquartered in Colorado Springs, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late ...

DevOps Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$50.75 - $69.50/hr

Auria Space offers aerospace and defense engineering services. Founded in 2000, the company is headquartered in Colorado Springs, USA, with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late ...

Working across product, engineering, sales, logistics, operations, and mission success, the Air Defense team develops, tests, deploys, and sustains the Anduril Air Defense Family of Systems in ...

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Defense Engineering information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$33

$60

How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense engineering in Colorado is $33.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.25 and $39.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

How much do defense engineers make?

Defense engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in systems design, cybersecurity, or missile defense can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Many positions require security clearances and proficiency with engineering tools like CAD or simulation software.

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 knowledge of engineering principles, materials science, and defense regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Engineering jobs in Colorado?

For Defense Engineering jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,005 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 75 rated research


Job description

Description

Are you interested in exciting opportunities solving the most important challenges defending the United States, our forces, and our allies from air and missile threats?

If so, we’d love to have you join our team!

The Cross-Domain Battle Management Group is seeking innovative and hard-working professionals with a degree in a technical field to work with our Colorado Springs team. Join us to work in an exciting and collaborative environment where we tackle challenging technical national security problems. Our group specializes in bridging the missile defense and space domains, with the objective of building capabilities across the services to increase and maintain the Nation’s superiority in missile defense.

As a Missile Defense Engineer, you will be...

  • Conducting research and development activities creating concepts that identify and fill gaps in the U.S. Defense systems
  • Implementing novel algorithms that redefine the state of the art in our nation's defensive systems
  • Developing sophisticated Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning approaches for solving complex problems
  • Crafting novel data fusion, object tracking, and discrimination improvements for distributed defensive concepts
  • Using modern programming languages to develop and test technical solutions
  • Developing prototype capabilities and working with real-world systems to transition ideas to fielded systems
  • Testing contractor algorithm implementation against government performance requirements
  • Effectively communicating technical recommendations to APL leadership, government sponsors, and the engineering community
  • Contributing to a dynamic group culture that values participation in collaborative teams and activities, and dedication to continual improvement, innovation, and risk-taking

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Data Science, Statistics, or similar degrees.
  • Are skilled in and/or can build programming skills in MATLAB, C++, C, Python, Java, or similar. .
  • Have at least 3 years of experience working with DoD Command and Control systems
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Have working knowledge of configuration management tools.
  • Have domain knowledge of Navy, Missile Defense Agency, or Air Force Command and Control systems.
  • Have a final Top Secret SCI clearance.

#LI-KW1


About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at  .

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact  .

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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