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Defense Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WilmerHale

Senior AI Defense Engineer

Miamisburg, OH · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

AI Defense Engineering - Evaluate and operationalize security controls, guardrails, and enforcement mechanisms for AI services (e.g., input/output filters, policy enforcement layers, content safety ...

Wilmerhale

Senior AI Defense Engineer

Miamisburg, OH · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

AI Defense Engineering - Evaluate and operationalize security controls, guardrails, and enforcement mechanisms for AI services (e.g., input/output filters, policy enforcement layers, content safety ...

Wilmerhale

Senior AI Defense Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$129K - $177K/yr

AI Defense Engineering - Evaluate and operationalize security controls, guardrails, and enforcement mechanisms for AI services (e.g., input/output filters, policy enforcement layers, content safety ...

WilmerHale

Senior AI Defense Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$124K - $170K/yr

AI Defense Engineering - Evaluate and operationalize security controls, guardrails, and enforcement mechanisms for AI services (e.g., input/output filters, policy enforcement layers, content safety ...

WilmerHale

Senior AI Defense Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$129K - $177K/yr

AI Defense Engineering - Evaluate and operationalize security controls, guardrails, and enforcement mechanisms for AI services (e.g., input/output filters, policy enforcement layers, content safety ...

WilmerHale

Senior AI Defense Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$129K - $177K/yr

AI Defense Engineering - Evaluate and operationalize security controls, guardrails, and enforcement mechanisms for AI services (e.g., input/output filters, policy enforcement layers, content safety ...

WilmerHale

Senior AI Defense Engineer

Miamisburg, OH

$102K - $140K/yr

AI Defense Engineering - Evaluate and operationalize security controls, guardrails, and enforcement mechanisms for AI services (e.g., input/output filters, policy enforcement layers, content safety ...

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Defense Engineering information

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How much do defense engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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 does a defense engineer do?

A defense engineer designs, develops, and tests military systems, equipment, and technology 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. Their work supports national security and defense capabilities.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

In defense engineering, senior roles such as aerospace, systems, or cybersecurity engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or with government contracts. These positions often require security clearances, leadership responsibilities, and expertise in complex systems or technologies.

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, 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

In defense engineering, senior roles such as aerospace, systems, or electrical engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually. These positions often require security clearances, leadership responsibilities, and proficiency with complex tools and systems.

What engineers make $500,000?

In defense engineering, senior roles such as aerospace or systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. High-level managerial or executive positions in defense companies may also achieve this compensation level.
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:
What job categories do people searching Defense Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Engineering jobs are:
Defense Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,624 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Engineering Manager - Electrification

ND DEFENSE LLC

Madison Heights, MI • On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Engineering Manager — Electrification helps to establish and lead ND Defense’s high voltage electrification engineering team, driving the design, development, integration, and validation of electric powertrain systems, battery storage systems, and high voltage architectures for defense ground vehicles and Electric Ground Mobility (EGM) platforms. This role owns the technical direction for electrification programs from concept through production, ensuring designs meet stringent defense performance, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.

The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in high voltage systems engineering with proven leadership of multidisciplinary engineering teams. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires the ability to lead technical executions, mentor and grow engineers, and a forward-looking propensity to leverage AI and agentic technologies to optimize engineering workflows and program execution.

Essential FunctionsTechnical Leadership
  • Lead the design and development of high voltage electrical systems (400V–800V+ DC) for defense ground vehicle platforms, including battery systems, power distribution, motor drives, inverters, DC-DC converters, exportable power, and charging infrastructure.
  • Define high voltage architecture, system schematics, wire harness routing, and component specifications in compliance with MIL-STD requirements and applicable SAE standards.
  • Own the technical review process for electrification programs, including design reviews (PDR, CDR), DFMEA, and design validation test planning.
  • Establish and enforce high voltage safety protocols aligned with SAE J1766, ISO 6469, MIL-STD-1275, MIL-STD-461 (EMI/EMC), and applicable NAVSEA or Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) requirements.
  • Drive resolution of complex electrical integration challenges across mechanical, thermal, software, and vehicle systems engineering disciplines.
People Leadership
  • Manage, mentor, and develop a team of electrical, systems, and integration engineers focused on electrification programs.
  • Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular performance reviews, and build individual development plans aligned with organizational growth.
  • Lead hiring efforts to build high voltage engineering capability, including identifying talent gaps and developing staffing plans.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-accountability engineering culture grounded in technical rigor and continuous improvement.
Program Execution
  • Partner with program management to define scope, schedule, cost, and technical milestones for electrification programs.
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams (mechanical, thermal, software, manufacturing, quality) to deliver integrated electrification solutions on time and within budget.
  • Serve as the primary technical point of contact for customer engagements on electrification programs, including design presentations, technical interchange meetings, and proposal support.
  • Support business development and capture efforts by contributing to technical proposals, white papers, and technology roadmaps for high voltage electrification capabilities.
Standards, Compliance, and Continuous Improvement
  • Ensure all electrification designs comply with applicable military standards, customer specifications, and ND Defense’s AS9100-based QMS.
  • Stay current on emerging electrification technologies, battery chemistries, power electronics, and defense-sector EGM trends (e.g., Army Modernization Priorities, GVSC electrification roadmap).
  • Drive lessons-learned processes and design standardization across electrification programs to improve reuse, reduce cost, and accelerate delivery.

AI & Process Optimization

  • Identify and implement opportunities to apply AI and agentic technologies to streamline engineering processes, automate routine program management tasks, and improve decision-making efficiency.
  • Stay current on emerging AI tools and methodologies relevant to defense engineering and program execution, and champion their adoption where appropriate.


Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 8+ years of progressive experience in high voltage electrical systems design and development, with at least 3 years in a technical leadership or engineering management role.
  • Direct, hands-on experience with high voltage powertrain architectures (400V–800V+ DC), including battery management systems (BMS), traction inverters, electric motors/generators, DC-DC converters, and high voltage distribution.
  • Working knowledge of relevant standards: MIL-STD-1275 (vehicle power characteristics), MIL-STD-461 (EMI/EMC), MIL-STD-810 (environmental), SAE J1772/J3068 (charging), ISO 6469 (EV safety).
  • Experience managing engineering teams of 5+ through full product development lifecycles (concept through production).
  • Proficiency with electrical design tools such as CATIA Electrical, Capital Harness, Zuken, Altium, or equivalent.
  • Strong understanding of GD&T, DFMEA, DVP&R, and structured problem-solving methodologies (8D, A3, root cause analysis).
  • U.S. Citizenship required. Must be eligible for and able to obtain/maintain a DoD security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, or Systems Engineering.
  • Experience in defense ground vehicle programs (e.g., JLTV, AMPV, RCV, OMFV, or similar Army/Marine Corps vehicle platforms).
  • Familiarity with Army GVSC electrification initiatives, Tactical Wheeled Vehicle (TWV) modernization, or TARDEC legacy programs.
  • Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), SysML, or DOORS for requirements management.
  • Active DoD Secret clearance.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Systems Engineering Professional).
  • Experience with ITAR-controlled programs and technical data handling.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
  • Office and engineering lab environment with occasional time on the manufacturing floor and at customer/test sites.
  • Ability to work near high voltage equipment and in test environments with appropriate PPE and safety protocols.
  • Travel up to 20%, including customer sites, test facilities, supplier locations, and ND Defense’s West Point, MS manufacturing facility.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally.


ND Defense LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. ND Defense reserves the right to modify this description at any time. All duties are subject to reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities.