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Defense Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Defense Engineering information

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$12

$31

$57

How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense engineering in the United States is $31.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

More about Defense Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Defense Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Defense Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Engineering jobs include:
Senior Solutions Engineer - Aerospace and Defense

Senior Solutions Engineer - Aerospace and Defense

Xometry

Denver, CO • Hybrid

$101K - $150K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Xometry is seeking an experienced and charismatic engineer for a critical customer-facing Senior Solutions Engineer role. This role supports Sales by providing perspective, feedback, and sharing knowledge learned from the front lines of the aerospace and defense engineering and manufacturing community. This role is a unique blend of customer engagement, technical expertise, and project management. Solutions Engineering will report into the Pre-Sales Engineering community, which is dually led by Sales and Operations.

This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic and growing company at the forefront of digital manufacturing. If you are a successful, experienced, team-focused engineer with digital fluency and a sincere enthusiasm about the aerospace industry, this could be the right role for you.

Responsibilities:

Customer Engagement and Sales:

  • Partner with Account Executives to drive account growth and retention
  • Discover, illuminate, digest, organize and execute major projects
  • Join Account Executives in onsite visits with customers when appropriate
  • Proactively identify and address potential manufacturing challenges (including DFM)
  • Stay informed about upcoming customer projects and initiatives to ensure alignment with Xometry's capabilities
  • Gather customer insights and feedback to inform sales strategies

Pre-Sales Engineering:

  • Assist Pre-Sales Engineering with knowledge gathering, digestion, and ultimately compiling correct and competitive quotes
  • Combine customer knowledge, Xometry partner knowledge, and Xometry system knowledge to rapidly address customer needs and shepherd projects to delivery
  • Provide project management and oversight on complex opportunities

Qualifications:

  • 10+ years of relevant experience in aerospace and defense engineering and manufacturing roles
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is required
  • Experience using Xometry's services from a customer perspective.  Partner perspective is a bonus.
  • Deep familiarity with the methods, materials, culture and products of organizations such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Blue Origin, Anduril, General Dynamics, Moog, SpaceX
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing principles, including drawings and GDT
  • Particularly strong experience in CNC machining.  Composites, Plastics, Harnesses and Sheet Metal Fab are bonuses
  • Familiarity with ISO9001, AS9100d, ITAR, NIST and other common and critical compliance and certification requirements
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.  This must extend into remote/digital environments.
  • Ability to travel to customer and/or partner sites as needed.  25%-35% travel is typical.
  • Mountain or Pacific home time zone preferred
  • Experience with CRM systems such as Salesforce
  • Proficiency in Google Suite and Microsoft Office Suite

The estimated base salary range for new hires into this role is $101,000- $150,000 annually + commission depending on factors such as job-related skills, relevant experience, and location. We also offer a competitive benefits package, including 401(k) match, medical, dental and vision insurance; life and disability insurance; generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, floating and fixed holidays, maternity and bonding leave; EAP, other wellbeing resources; and much more.

#LI-Hybrid


Xometry logo

About Xometry

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Xometry (NASDAQ: XMTR) powers the industries of today and tomorrow by connecting the people with big ideas to the manufacturers who can bring them to life. Xometry's digital marketplace gives manufacturers the critical resources they need to grow their business while also making it easy for buyers at Fortune 1000 companies to tap into global manufacturing capacity.

Industry

Software development

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Gaithersburg, MD, US

Year founded

2013