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Defense Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Calling All Defense Engineers: Your Next Mission Starts Here. You've spent your career solving ... Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development * Test & Validation

New

Program Manager Senior - Defense

Warren, MI · On-site

$108K - $109K/yr

The Senior Program Manager is responsible for leading larger and more complex technical programs within the Defense Engineering Department. Activities include managing customer communications ...

New

Your defense expertise can make an impact here. At GM Defense , we're combining the speed ... Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development * Test & Validation

Your defense expertise can make an impact here. At GM Defense , we're combining the speed ... Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development * Test & Validation

Your defense expertise can make an impact here. At GM Defense , we're combining the speed ... Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development * Test & Validation

Your defense expertise can make an impact here. At GM Defense, we're combining the speed ... Performance Engineering * Software Engineering * Product Development * Test & Validation

Performance Engineer Intern

Auburn Hills, MI

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

This position is intended to provide meaningful exposure to a professional aerospace and defense engineering environment while maintaining appropriate supervision and work scope for an intern. The ...

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Defense Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$27

$50

How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense engineering in Michigan is $27.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $33.12 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,198 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Technical Lead, Mechanical Systems/Defense Engineering

Novi, MI • On-site

Rolls-Royce plc
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$122K - $199K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Rolls-Royce rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title: Technical Lead, Mechanical Systems/Defense Engineering

Working Pattern: Full time Working location: Novi, MI/Hybrid - 3 Office Days/Week) Relocation assistance will be provided if applicable.

Why Rolls-Royce? At Rolls-Royce we are proud to be a business that has truly helped to shape the modern world and are committed to always being a force for progress; powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere. By joining Rolls-Royce, you’ll have the opportunity to create world-class power and propulsion solutions, pushing your problem-solving and ingenuity, to deliver real impact that puts safety first. You’ll be given responsibility and the opportunity to grow in our high-performance culture. This is Infinite Potential. And it’s your chance to really shine and contribute to one of the world’s most recognized brands and a beacon for engineering excellence.

Position Summary

We have an exciting opportunity for a Technical Lead to join the US Mechanical Systems team in our new Novi, Michigan site! The Novi site team provides mechanical design, integration, and stress analysis for our mature engine lines’ components and modules. As the Technical Lead you will be accountable for managing a team of 15 to 25 Mechanical Systems Engineers covering a variety of skill sets working on US Defense Programs, as well as serve as the local lead for Defense Engineering. It is an excellent opportunity to add to your people and program leadership skills and understand how to develop the capability of a team.

What you will be doing
  • Provide technical leadership and personnel management to the assigned team and ensure compliance with processes throughout the life cycle activity, including performance management reviews
  • Play an active role in load/capacity planning for the assigned team and work with the wider Mechanical Systems function to ensure suitable and capable people are available to complete program deliverables.
  • This includes engagement with our mature engine programs to understand their work packages and assign suitable individuals to them
  • Allocate staff to agreed work packages and lead the delivery of Novi-assigned technical activities
  • Represent Defense Engineering at the Novi site
  • Lead and drive efficiency through process review, teamwork and implementing continuous improvement and operational best practices
Basic Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, with 5+ years of experience, OR Master’s degree in Engineering, with 3+ years of experience, OR JD/PhD in Engineering with a concentration in aerospace design

In order to be considered for this opportunity, you must be a US Citizen

Preferred Requirements
  • Minimum of 5+ years’ direct experience in Design methods and processes involving Gas Turbine engines
  • Demonstrates sound engineering judgement showing knowledge of the Defense Customers and Programs
  • Capable of building high performing teams and effecting a positive shift in attitudes and behaviors
  • Functional knowledge and awareness of engineering design and integration
  • Experience with Rolls-Royce standards and specifications
  • Familiarity in Lifecycle Viewer, NX, and Teamcenter
  • Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), and tolerance stacks
  • A deep understanding of specialist subjects and proven ability to influence key decisions
  • Understanding of Intellectual Property and Export Control requirements
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills to work effectively in a team environment; willingness to accept responsibility and take initiative; ability to plan and coordinate assigned work with other groups; and drive to finish assigned tasks on schedule
  • An excellent command of the English language for both written and oral communications

Our vision is to ensure that the quality and dynamism that shaped our history continues into our future. It’s a bold pursuit, and we never stop striving to go further, faster, and better. We lead progress, creating the technologies that move us forward. If you’re driven to grow, to learn, and to make a lasting difference, this is where you belong.

Rolls-Royce is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristics. We are committed to providing a respectful and non-discriminatory workplace where individuality is valued and everyone can thrive.

Infinite Potential Closing Date: September 25, 2026

Pay Range Pay ranges for remote employees are based on the state where the employee resides and may vary from the posted range. $122,741 - $199,454-Annually Location: Novi, MI

Benefits
  • Eligible employees may have the opportunity to enroll in other benefits, including health, dental, vision, disability, life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance
  • a flexible spending account
  • a health savings account
  • a 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Time Off
  • certain paid holidays
  • paid parental and family care leave
  • tuition reimbursement
  • and a long-term incentive plan

The options available to an employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as date of hire, employment type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Rolls-Royce pioneers cutting-edge technologies that deliver the cleanest, safest and most competitive solutions to our planet’s vital power needs.

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About Rolls-Royce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing and engine, turbine, and power transmission equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

London, ENG, GB