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Defense Engineering Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

UNEW Inc.

Sales Engineer - Aerospace & Defense

Stuart, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

UNEW Inc. provides world-class aerospace and defense inspection services, including dimensional inspection, reverse engineering, first article inspection, production inspection, third-party ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDefense Engineering JobsDefense Engineering Jobs in Florida

Defense Engineering information

See Florida salary details

$9

$23

$42

How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense engineering in Florida is $23.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $28.37 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.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Defense Engineering jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Engineering jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Defense Engineering jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Defense Engineering job openings:

Defense Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,040 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Systems Engineer (Top Secret Clearance Required)

St. Michael's Inc

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

READY TO JOIN OUR TEAM?
Are you an experienced Systems Engineer with a background supporting Department of Defense acquisition programs? Do you enjoy solving complex engineering challenges while helping deliver advanced capabilities to America's Special Operations Forces? If so, we invite you to join our team supporting U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), Special Operations Forces Acquisition, Technology & Logistics (SOF AT&L).
ABOUT THIS ROLE
St. Michael's is seeking an experienced Senior Systems Engineer to provide engineering and technical support across one or more SOF AT&L Program Executive Offices. This position supports the engineering, integration, testing, evaluation, and lifecycle management of advanced defense systems from concept development through fielding and sustainment.
The successful candidate will work closely with Government engineers, program managers, budget analysts, contractors, and operational stakeholders to evaluate technical solutions, assess engineering risks, support acquisition decision-making, and ensure engineering efforts meet mission requirements.
LOCATION
Tampa, FL, on site
WHO YOU ARE
Security Clearance
  • U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.

Certification in one of the following (or ability to obtain if contractually permitted) in Engineering, Program Management, or Test & Evaluation career field:
  • DAWIA Practitioner (Level II equivalent)
  • DAWIA Advanced (Level III equivalent)

Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or another closely related technical discipline.

Required Experience
  • Minimum of ten (10) years supporting Department of Defense engineering or acquisition programs.
  • Experience supporting systems engineering, systems integration, or engineering program management.
  • Experience supporting engineering efforts throughout the acquisition lifecycle.
  • Experience evaluating engineering designs, technical documentation, and system performance.
  • Experience supporting engineering reviews, technical assessments, and program decision-making.
  • Experience developing executive briefings and technical reports.
  • Experience coordinating with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Experience supporting engineering surveillance, design reviews, testing, production, and system integration.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Technical Knowledge Working knowledge of:
  • Systems Engineering principles
  • DoD acquisition processes
  • Defense Acquisition System
  • Engineering change proposals
  • Configuration management
  • Technical risk management
  • Systems integration
  • Test planning and evaluation
  • Cost estimating
  • Engineering documentation
  • Technical performance measures
  • Program planning and budgeting

Preferred Experience supporting one or more of the following is highly desirable:
  • Maritime systems
  • Naval engineering
  • Undersea systems
  • Surface vessels
  • SOF acquisition programs
  • Science & Technology (S&T)
  • Research & Development (R&D)
  • Technology transition
  • Engineering surveillance
  • Technology road mapping
  • Prototype development
  • Systems certification and qualification
  • Computer-aided design tools

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide systems engineering support throughout the acquisition lifecycle.
  • Evaluate engineering concepts, technical approaches, and system designs.
  • Support development of engineering plans, schedules, budgets, and technical strategies.
  • Review engineering documentation, specifications, engineering change proposals, waivers, deviations, and technical recommendations.
  • Support Government engineering authorities during design, development, testing, production, and sustainment activities.
  • Participate in technical reviews and engineering working groups.
  • Analyze engineering performance metrics and recommend corrective actions.
  • Support market research and technical evaluations.
  • Provide technical input to acquisition planning and contract modifications.
  • Prepare executive briefings and engineering status reports.
  • Coordinate engineering activities across Government and contractor organizations.
  • Identify engineering risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
  • Support continuous process improvement initiatives and engineering best practices.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
At St. Michael's, we believe in rewarding hard work and supporting the people who keep our country safe. As an employee-owned company, you can share in our success through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). We also offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k)-retirement plan; paid time off; and professional development support. Join a company with a conscience - one that invests in your well-being and professional growth. See all our benefits here: St. Michael's Benefits.
This position will remain open until filled.
St. Michael's is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Vet.
Reasonable Accommodation - If you need a reasonable accommodation when you apply for a position on our website, please contact us at 703-463-9463 or HumanResources@stmichaelsinc.com
When calling, please ask to speak with Human Resources.
When sending an email, please include "Reasonable Accommodation" in the subject line of the email.

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