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Defense Engineering Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

As a Missile Defense Engineer, you will be... * Conducting research and development activities ... Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Computer ...

Auria Space

Software Developer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

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 ...

Auria Space

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 ...

Auria Space

Senior Network Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

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 ...

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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 Jul 27, 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 does a defense engineer do?

A defense engineer designs, develops, and tests military systems, equipment, and technology 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. Their work supports national security and defense capabilities.

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 roles such as aerospace, systems, or cybersecurity engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or with government contracts. These positions often require security clearances, leadership responsibilities, and expertise in complex systems or technologies.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

In defense engineering, senior roles such as aerospace, systems, or electrical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually. These positions often require security clearances, leadership responsibilities, and proficiency with complex tools and systems.

What engineers make $500,000?

In defense engineering, senior roles such as aerospace or systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. High-level managerial or executive positions in defense companies may also achieve this compensation level.
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:
What job categories do people searching Defense Engineering jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Engineering jobs in Colorado are:
Defense Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,005 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Warfighter Integration Engineer

Waypoint Human Capital

Colorado Springs, CO

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Warfighter Integration Engineer
Position Type: Full-time, On-Site
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Clearance: Active Secret Clearance (TS or TS/SCI desired)
Description:
Waypoint’s client is seeking a Warfighter Integration Engineer to support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Chief Architect's Architecture Concept Evaluation Office (MDA/CAC). This role focuses on wargame requirements development, campaign planning and analysis, missile defense systems integration, and future capability assessments supporting next-generation warfighters.
The selected candidate will serve as a key contributor to missile defense wargaming efforts, providing technical expertise to support the planning, execution, analysis, and reporting of operational and strategic wargame activities.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide wargame subject matter expertise to MDA/CAC in the development of wargame event requirements, post-wargame analysis, and reporting — including pinnacle out briefs and Commander's games.
  • Shape MDA wargame planning and execution events, workshops, and capstone events through practical wargame experience.
  • Provide expertise in wargame doctrine and best practices employed by the Joint Staff, Combatant Commands, Services, and Defense Agencies.
  • Facilitate external wargame engagement, including creation of future capability development modules.
.
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in STEM with 7+ years of experience supporting missile defense or related defense programs.
  • Active Secret clearance.
  • Experience in DoD large-project systems engineering with specific focus on wargame development and execution, systems analysis, future capabilities (S&T), and defense engineering.
  • Ability to plan and execute wargame support, develop clear written products, and present technical matters to MDA senior leaders and warfighters.
  • Experience leading working group meetings with 50+ attendees in support of MDA/CAC wargame campaigns

Desired:
  • Experience with M&S tools and their application to wargaming — MDASim or AFSim (highly desired).
  • Ability to facilitate large wargame group discussions and/or perform adjudication tasks.
  • Strong public speaking and professional report-writing skills with embedded graphics.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
  • Master's degree in a STEM field.