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Defense Engineering Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer III

Arlington, TX · Hybrid

$54 - $72.75/hr

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on ... Analyzes and decomposes system requirements collaboratively with other engineering disciplines.

New

Kratos Defense

Project Engineer

Arlington, TX · On-site

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on ... Facilitates coordination of cross-functional engineering teams for internal engineering activities ...

Kratos Defense

Project Engineer

Arlington, TX · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on ... Facilitates coordination of cross-functional engineering teams for internal engineering activities ...

Kratos Defense

Systems Engineer

Arlington, TX · On-site

... systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of turbine engine technology programs in aerospace and defense. This position is full-time and requires the ability to ...

Kratos Defense

Systems Engineer

Arlington, TX · On-site

... systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of turbine engine technology programs in aerospace and defense. This position is full-time and requires the ability to ...

Defense Unicorns

Platform Engineer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$123K - $166K/yr

Collaborate with mission stakeholders, partner organizations, and Defense Unicorns engineering teams to identify technical requirements and resolve platform challenges Travel Expectations ...

Kratos Defense

Systems Engineer

Arlington, TX · On-site

... systems engineering technical contribution and leadership in support of turbine engine technology programs in aerospace and defense. This position is full-time and requires the ability to ...

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$12

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How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense engineering in Texas is $29.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $35.38 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 Texas?

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

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

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Defense Engineering jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Defense Engineering job openings:

Defense Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,139 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Technical Sales & Business Development Manager (Commercial Space)

Houston, TX • On-site, Remote

Aegis Aerospace, Inc.
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Aegis Aerospace, Inc.external

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Technical Sales amp; Business Development Manager (Commercial Space)
Location: Webster, TX (Houston area)
Relocation Assistance: Not available at this time
Remote/Telework: No – Onsite required
Clearance Required: None
Employment Type: Full-time, Salaried, Exempt
Work Schedule: Day Shift
Travel: Travel to customer meetings, conferences, and industry events is required
Position Summary:
Aegis Aerospace is seeking an experienced Technical Sales amp; Business Development Manager to support our Space Flight Systems (SFS) organization at our Webster, Texas worksite in the greater Houston area. The SFS team implements Aegis Aerospace’s commercial Space Testing as a Service (STaaS) line of business, which enables customers to obtain spaceflight heritage for new products, reduce risk associated with emerging technologies, and conduct scientific research in space and on the surface of the Moon. This position will identify and develop new business opportunities, cultivate strategic customer relationships, and manage the sales process for Aegis Aerospace’s commercial spaceflight, payload-integration, and engineering services. The successful candidate will combine aerospace-industry knowledge with consultative sales experience and the ability to translate complex technical capabilities into compelling solutions for government, commercial, academic, and research customers.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute sales and business-development strategies that support revenue growth for Aegis Aerospace’s commercial space services.
  • Identify, qualify, and pursue new business opportunities within the civil, commercial, defense, academic, and research space markets.
  • Establish and maintain relationships with prospective and existing customers, including government agencies, aerospace prime contractors, commercial space companies, technology developers, and research institutions.
  • Conduct detailed customer needs assessments and translate technical, operational, schedule, and mission requirements into viable service solutions.
  • Communicate the value of Aegis Aerospace’s spaceflight, payload-integration, testing, and engineering capabilities in clear and understandable terms.
  • Manage the sales cycle from prospecting and initial customer engagement through solution development, proposal preparation, negotiation, and contract award.
  • Work closely with engineering, operations, program management, contracts, and executive leadership to develop technically sound and commercially competitive solutions.
  • Develop proposals, presentations, capability statements, statements of work, pricing inputs, and other customer-facing materials.
  • Deliver presentations and briefings to technical, executive, and customer audiences.
  • Maintain an accurate opportunity pipeline in the company’s designated CRM, including sales forecasts, customer activity, follow-up actions, and opportunity status.
  • Support targeted marketing initiatives, including website content, social media messaging, customer communications, and lead-generation campaigns.
  • Represent Aegis Aerospace at customer meetings, industry conferences, trade shows, technical forums, and networking events.
  • Monitor relevant market activity, customer priorities, competitive developments, and emerging commercial space opportunities.
  • Coordinate the transition of awarded work from business development to the responsible program, engineering, and operations teams.
  • Provide regular reporting to leadership regarding pipeline health, sales performance, customer engagement, and forecasted revenue.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, aerospace, marketing, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
  • Five or more years of experience in technical sales, business development, capture management, account management, or a related customer-facing role.
  • Professional experience within the aerospace, spaceflight, defense, engineering services, or another highly technical industry.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage a full sales cycle, from lead generation and qualification through proposal development and contract award.
  • Ability to understand technical products and services and communicate their value to both technical and nontechnical audiences.
  • Experience developing customer relationships and identifying opportunities for new or expanded business.
  • Strong proposal-writing, presentation, negotiation, and customer-engagement skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple customers, opportunities, and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with engineering, operations, program management, contracts, marketing, and executive leadership.
  • Experience using a customer relationship management system.
  • Ability and willingness to travel as required.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and able to successfully complete any required government background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Direct experience selling commercial spaceflight, payload-integration, satellite, launch, testing, engineering, or mission-support services.
  • Knowledge of payload development, integration, testing, launch, and on-orbit operations.
  • Familiarity with the International Space Station, Low-Earth Orbit, free-flying spacecraft, lunar missions, or microgravity research.
  • Established professional relationships within NASA, the aerospace and defense industry, commercial space companies, research institutions, or major technology organizations.
  • Experience developing business with customers such as NASA, aerospace prime contractors, commercial technology companies, or government research organizations.
  • Experience responding to requests for information, requests for proposals, and other formal acquisition opportunities.
  • Familiarity with government and commercial contracting processes.
  • Experience developing technical marketing content, social media messaging, or lead-generation campaigns.
  • Technical or engineering degree.
  • Previous experience working directly with engineers, scientists, researchers, program managers, and senior executives.
Compensation
The anticipated base salary range for this position is $100,000–$140,000 annually. The final offer will be determined based on the candidate’s relevant experience, education, technical knowledge, demonstrated sales and business-development capabilities, and internal equity. This position is also eligible for Aegis Aerospace’s standard employee benefits package.
About Aegis Aerospace
We are a woman-owned space and technology company headquartered in Houston, TX. Our primary objective is to support the Department of Defense and NASA in achieving their missions to defend the security of our country, reach new heights and to discover the unknown. We employ some of the brightest, most experienced engineering and technology experts in the U.S.
To learn more about Aegis Aerospace, visit our website at http://www.AegisAero.com
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