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Defense Engineering Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Auria Space

CI/CD Engineer - UI

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 ...

Cornerstone Defense

Software Engineer V

Aurora, CO

$135K - $175K/yr

Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ... Requires a Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and 8 years ...

Cornerstone Defense

Software Engineer VI

Aurora, CO

$175K - $200K/yr

Cornerstone Defense is the Employer of Choice within the Intelligence, Defense, and Space ... Basic Qualifications: * Requires a Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or ...

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All JobsDefense Engineering JobsDefense Engineering Jobs in Colorado

Defense Engineering information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$33

$60

How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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 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 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 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,005 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Data Analyst

Waypoint Human Capital

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Data Analyst
Position Type: Full-time, On-Site
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Clearance: Active Secret Clearance (Top Secret Preferred)
Description:
Waypoint’s client is seeking a Data Analyst to support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Chief Architect's Warfighter/International Integration Office (MDA/CAI). This organization serves as the primary point of contact for wargame requirements development, campaign planning, and analysis, while supporting warfighters and MDA leadership on missile defense engineering and technical issues.
The selected candidate will provide analytical support through modeling, simulation, software development, and data analysis activities that directly contribute to missile defense wargaming, campaign assessments, and operational planning efforts.
Responsibilities:
• Develop and enhance software tools and analytical packages supporting missile defense wargaming and campaign analysis activities.
• Analyze missile defense system capabilities and support development, planning, and execution of MDA wargame event requirements.
• Support modeling and simulation activities used to evaluate missile defense concepts, capabilities, and operational scenarios.
• Apply DoD test and evaluation best practices to support analytical products and campaign planning efforts.
• Assist with data collection, analysis, and visualization efforts supporting wargaming activities and senior leadership decision-making.
• Collaborate with government personnel, engineers, analysts, and warfighters to support analytical objectives.
• Develop technical reports, briefings, and written products for delivery to MDA leadership and operational stakeholders.
• Support working groups, technical meetings, and campaign planning activities related to missile defense operations.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of software solutions that improve analytical processes and data management capabilities.
Required:
• U.S. Citizenship
• Active Secret clearance
• Bachelor’s degree and 7+ years of experience supporting missile defense programs or other related DoD programs
• Ability to travel as required
• Working knowledge of software development using Python, VBA, and/or MATLAB
• Familiarity with DoD modeling and simulation tools such as AFSIM and MDASim
• Knowledge of missile defense threat systems and threat modeling concepts
• Experience supporting data analysis, modeling, simulation, or operational analysis activities
• Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills
Desired:
• Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance
• Experience supporting missile defense programs, large-scale DoD programs, or test analysis efforts
• Experience with software development and integration activities
• Familiarity with wargaming processes, campaign analysis, and operational planning methodologies
• Experience developing technical reports and briefing materials for senior government stakeholders
• Ability to effectively communicate within large working groups and technical forums
• Experience designing and implementing software tools from concept through deployment
• Familiarity with data visualization and business intelligence tools such as Qlik Sense and Power BI
• Experience supporting missile defense modeling, simulation, and operational analysis environments
• Knowledge of DoD test and evaluation methodologies and analytical best practices