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Defense Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ROUSH

Director of Defense Engineering

Warren, MI · On-site

The Director, Defense Engineering will provide technical leadership across all engineering teams in the Defense organization. The role will lead technology transfer and collaboration between the ...

ROUSH

Director of Defense Engineering

Warren, MI · On-site

The Director, Defense Engineering will provide technical leadership across all engineering teams in the Defense organization. The role will lead technology transfer and collaboration between the ...

Roush

Director of Defense Engineering

Warren, MI · On-site

The Director, Defense Engineering will provide technical leadership across all engineering teams in the Defense organization. The role will lead technology transfer and collaboration between the ...

Belcan

Defense - Program Manager Senior III

Warren, MI · On-site

$56.36 - $73/hr

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

Oshkosh Corporation

Defense Chief Engineer

Hudson, MI · On-site

... defense, and mobility industries providing clients with product engineering and low-volume ... Our range of research & development, engineering, prototype manufacturing, test & validation, and ...

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$11

$27

$50

How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 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:

Defense Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,198 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Director of Defense Engineering

ROUSH

Warren, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Roush rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

At Roush, we fuse technology and engineering to provide product development solutions to customers in a diverse range of industries. Widely recognized for providing engineering, testing, prototype, and manufacturing services to the transportation industry, Roush also provides significant support to the aerospace, defense and theme park industries. With over 2,400 employees in facilities throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and South America, our unique combination of creativity and tenacity activates big ideas on a global stage. We want motivated, ambitious people who put the needs of our customers first, bring creativity to their work and will do whatever it takes to achieve success. If you share our passion for providing innovative solutions to complex challenges, we want you on our team.
At Roush, we work alongside the best and brightest to do incredibly cool things you wouldn't believe. At Roush, you are part of building the future.
As the Director of Defense Engineering, you will:
The Director, Defense Engineering will provide technical leadership across all engineering teams in the Defense organization. The role will lead technology transfer and collaboration between the Defense group and other parts of the engineering business unit in the organization. The role will guide teams through engineering development, maintain team capabilities and competencies, and engage with customers on multiple design-led programs. The Director, Defense Engineering will understand the business and manage multiple clients and locations in a dynamic environment. This role is located in Warren, MI.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide leadership and direction for engineering team.
  • Focus on staff development strategies that supports the business plan and strategic direction.
  • Create an environment supportive of positive employee engagement.
  • Manage engineering operations including capacity planning, utilization, resource assignment, process management, and engineering metrics.
  • Provide leadership and direction on quotations and project reviews to assure that targets and
  • project budget costs are met.
  • Identify engineering focus areas to improve or streamline the development process and execution of
  • engineering initiatives, and eliminate non-value-added activities at all levels of the engineering.
  • Support business development actions, proposal development and Defense strategy direction.
  • Support financials for Defense business including projections, forecasting, reconciliation, and
  • presentation to management.
  • Oversee management and performance expectations of managers, supervisors and leaders through
  • performance feedback.
  • Lead continuous process improvement efforts and reinforce quality systems to ensure production quality.

To be considered for the Director of Defense Engineering, you will need:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience leading engineers performing system design, electrical, mechanical, and software in the automotive or defense, with a minimum of 4 years in the defense industry.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience managing business financials (profit, loss & sales margins).
  • U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident allowing for International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
  • compliance.
  • Experience in CAD/CAM/CAE and PLM supported process improvement and re-engineering in
  • engineering and manufacturing processes
  • Experience in system engineering and software development tools and methodologies
  • Ability to understand staffing demand and supply data metrics.
  • Strong problem solving and analytical skills, and ability to effectively manage multiple projects.
  • Ability to make recommendations and provide guidance to effectively meet program staffing
  • requirements.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Word and Excel), and effective communication
  • skills, both written and verbal.

A successful candidate may also have:
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance up to Top Secret
  • Master's degree in engineering or MBA.
  • Experience working with the US Department of Defense
  • Design and Contract specifications

Our full-time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, earned sick time, STD, LTD, 401K, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation, and paid holidays.
To apply for this position and view all of our other career opportunities at Roush, click here: https://jobs.roush.com/us/en/
Visit our website: www.roush.com
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RoushCareers
Roush is an EO employer - Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories. If you need reasonable accommodation for our employment application process due to disability, please contact
Roush Talent Acquisition at (734) 779-7087.

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