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Defense Illustrator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oshkosh Corporation

Technical Writer

Oshkosh, WI

$64K - $103K/yr

About Oshkosh Defense, an Oshkosh company Oshkosh Defense stands behind those who dedicate their ... Experience with CAD, Illustration, or Graphics artwork * Self-starter, flexible, and highly ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Technical Writer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$64K - $103K/yr

About Oshkosh Defense, an Oshkosh company Oshkosh Defense stands behind those who dedicate their ... Experience with CAD, Illustration, or Graphics artwork * Self-starter, flexible, and highly ...

Neros Technologies

Marketing Designer

Torrance, CA

$90K - $125K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company building America's drone industrial base. We ... Expert level skill in Figma, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Webflow, and ...

Neros Technologies

Marketing Designer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Who we are Neros is a defense technology company building America's drone industrial base. We ... Expert level skill in Figma, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Webflow, and ...

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Defense Illustrator information

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$32.5K

$59.3K

$96K

How much do defense illustrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense illustrator in the United States is $59,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $68,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is AI taking over illustration jobs?

AI is increasingly used to assist in illustration tasks, but for defense illustrators, human expertise remains essential for complex, accurate, and detailed military and technical drawings. AI tools can enhance productivity but do not fully replace the skill and judgment required in defense illustration work.

How does a Defense Illustrator typically collaborate with engineers and analysts on defense projects?

Defense Illustrators work closely with engineers and analysts to translate complex technical concepts into clear, accurate visual representations such as diagrams, schematics, and technical manuals. Collaboration usually involves participating in project meetings, reviewing technical specifications, and iterating on drafts based on team feedback. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential, as illustrators must ensure accuracy and compliance with industry standards. This teamwork not only helps streamline project workflows but also ensures that critical information is conveyed accurately to end-users, such as military personnel or contractors.

What are Defense Illustrators?

Defense Illustrators are specialized professionals who create visual representations for military and defense-related projects. They produce technical drawings, diagrams, schematics, and visual aids to support the design, analysis, and communication of defense systems and equipment. Their work is essential for conveying complex technical information to engineers, military personnel, and decision-makers. Defense Illustrators often use advanced software tools to create accurate and detailed illustrations that comply with strict security and confidentiality requirements.

Are illustrators still in demand?

Illustrators, including defense illustrators, continue to be in demand for creating technical diagrams, military manuals, and visualizations. The need for skilled artists with proficiency in digital tools like Adobe Illustrator and a strong understanding of technical content sustains employment opportunities in various industries, including defense and aerospace.

What is the difference between Defense Illustrator vs Defense Graphic Designer?

AspectDefense IllustratorDefense Graphic Designer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in illustration, fine arts, or related field; proficiency in digital illustration toolsSimilar credentials; often a degree in graphic design or visual arts; strong portfolio required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, military projectsGovernment agencies, defense contractors, military communication teams
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily used for detailed technical illustrations, concept art, and visualizations in defenseUsed for branding, informational graphics, and visual communication in defense contexts

Defense Illustrators focus on creating detailed technical and conceptual artwork for military and defense projects, often requiring specialized illustration skills. Defense Graphic Designers handle visual communication, branding, and informational graphics within defense organizations. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, their primary focus and output differ, with illustrators emphasizing detailed artwork and designers focusing on visual communication and branding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defense Illustrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Illustrator, you need strong artistic skills, attention to detail, and a background in technical drawing or graphic design, often supported by a relevant degree or military experience. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, CAD programs, and familiarity with secure file handling is typically required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure accurate, secure, and effective visual communication of complex defense concepts and equipment.
Infographic showing various Defense Illustrator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,345 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Technical Writer

Technical Writer

Oshkosh Corporation

Oshkosh, WI

$64K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

249th of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

About Oshkosh Defense, an Oshkosh company
Oshkosh Defense stands behind those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. As an industry-leading tactical vehicle manufacturer, every day we strive to meet or exceed our customers' ever-changing needs with next generation defense technologies and advanced systems. We operate with unparalleled commitment to those who depend on our products and services worldwide to perform their missions.
The Technical Writer role is responsible for developing, writing, and editing content for Operation and Service Manuals, Kit Instructions, and related technical publications in print or electronic media.
YOUR IMPACT
These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive, and other duties may be assigned:
  • Analyze new products and design changes to identify technical manual requirements
  • Coordinate meetings and activities as needed with engineering, service, marketing, and outside suppliers to gather, refine, and validate information to support assigned tasks and responsibilities
  • Develop, write, and revise operation manual, service manual, kit instruction, and bulletin content using publishing and illustrating software, which adhere to documentation guidelines and templates
  • Understand bill of material concept
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and other related engineering design and manufacturing documentation as required.
  • Upload manuals into Windchill and create Change Notices to release documentation to Online Express (insert segment websites)
  • Review applicable Change Notices (CNs) and determine actions needed
  • Ensure work is kept to schedule, style, and quality
  • Coordinate proofing of final copy prior to release
  • Develop instructions for accessory and service kits

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field and two (2) or more years of relevant experience (equivalent to eight (8) years total in education and experience); or an equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the role.
  • *Note: Internal candidates may be considered for this role with fewer years of experience if they have demonstrated high performance in their current position for a minimum of one year, subject to approval by the appropriate skip-level manager and Human Resources.

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to communicate with internal and external customers
  • Customer service oriented and quality focused
  • Ability to work independently or in a team atmosphere
  • Mechanical and spatial aptitude
  • Prior experience with engineering repository software, xml authoring software, and illustration software
  • Experience and proficiency with various web-based software applications including Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, etc.
  • Experience with CAD, Illustration, or Graphics artwork
  • Self-starter, flexible, and highly organized with strong analytical skills

WORKING CONDITIONS
The following represents general working conditions for this office-based role. Specific conditions may vary depending on business needs and individual circumstances.
  • This role is primarily performed in a professional office environment with standard lighting, ventilation, and temperature-controlled settings.
  • Duties are largely sedentary, requiring extended periods of sitting and using a computer and telephone.
  • Visual acuity to operate a computer and read documents is required, along with auditory ability to participate in virtual and in-person meetings.
  • Occasional movement within the office environment is necessary, including walking short distances, standing, or reaching for files.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Pay Range:
$64,500.00 - $103,500.00
The above pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Within this range, individual pay is determined by various factors, including the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, education and skills, as well as the equity of pay among team members in similar positions. Beyond offering a competitive total rewards package, we prioritize a people-first culture and offer various opportunities to support team member growth and success.
Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodation to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to disability for any part of the employment process, please contact us at corporatetalentacquisition@oshkoshcorp.com.
Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.
Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.
Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.

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