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Defense Innovation Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

BAE Systems

Mgr II- Eng Mfg

Louisville, KY · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

At BAE Systems, Inc., we pride ourselves on being a global defense company that values innovation, teamwork, and community involvement. As a leading provider of defense, security, and commercial ...

Sleep Number Corporation

Delivery Driver

Louisville, KY · On-site

$20.75/hr

Backed by almost 40 years of innovation, Sleep Number has helped more than 16 million people ... Department of Defense ID or other acceptable identification) Make quality sleep your passion by.

AUS Inc

Security Officer Patrol Partner

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.70/hr

Join Allied Universal as an Unarmed Patrol Officer at a dynamic aerospace and defense location ... In this role, you will be part of a team that values agility, reliability, innovation, and ...

New

BWXT

$70K - $103K/yr

BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear ...

BWXT

$70K - $103K/yr

BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear ...

BWXT

BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear ...

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Defense Innovation information

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in Defense Innovation roles?

Professionals in Defense Innovation often navigate the complex intersection of military needs, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements. One common challenge is balancing the rapid pace of technological change with lengthy procurement and approval processes. Additionally, collaboration across multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, military personnel, and government stakeholders—requires strong communication and adaptability. Navigating security protocols and maintaining confidentiality while fostering innovation can also be demanding, making flexibility and creative problem-solving essential for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Defense Innovation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Defense Innovation, you need expertise in systems engineering, technology development, and analytical problem-solving, often supported by a background in STEM fields and experience with defense protocols. Familiarity with project management tools, rapid prototyping platforms, and relevant security clearances is typically required. Strong collaboration, adaptability, and strategic thinking are critical soft skills to excel in this evolving landscape. These competencies are essential for driving technological advancements and delivering effective solutions to complex defense challenges.

What is Defense Innovation?

Defense innovation refers to the development and application of new technologies, strategies, and processes within the defense sector to enhance national security and military effectiveness. It involves adapting cutting-edge advancements—such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems—to address evolving threats and challenges. Defense innovation is crucial for maintaining a technological edge, improving operational capabilities, and ensuring that military organizations can effectively respond to current and future security needs.

What is the difference between Defense Innovation vs Defense Analyst?

AspectDefense Innovation

AspectDefense Innovation

Defense Innovation focuses on developing new technologies and strategies to enhance national security, often involving research, prototyping, and collaboration with tech firms. Defense Analysts evaluate existing defense programs, analyze military data, and provide strategic insights. While both roles support defense objectives, Defense Innovation emphasizes creating future solutions, whereas Defense Analysts focus on assessing current systems. Candidates often need similar security clearances and technical backgrounds, but their daily tasks differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Innovation jobs in Kentucky? For Defense Innovation jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Innovation jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Innovation jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Defense Innovation jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Defense Innovation job openings:
Defense Innovation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Innovation job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Manufacturing Engineering Manager-Louisville,Kentucky

BAE Systems

Louisville, KY

$136K - $231K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

Job Description
At BAE Systems, Inc., we pride ourselves on being a global defense company that values innovation, teamwork, and community involvement. As a leading provider of defense, security, and commercial solutions, we offer a dynamic and challenging work environment that fosters growth, learning, and professional development. Our employees are our greatest asset, and we're committed to creating a culture that encourages collaboration, creativity, and excellence.
Manufacturing Engineer Manager Job Description
The BAE Systems, Inc. Combat Mission Systems business unit is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Manufacturing Engineer Manager to lead and develop a team as well as oversee and improve the manufacturing processes in our Louisville, KY facility. In this role, you will have responsibility for one of our Product Value Streams of naval defense industry products while fostering a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and quality. You will be collaborating cross-functionally with design, procurement, and production, and interfacing directly with vendors and the customer.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership and Management
  • Manage and develop a team of manufacturing engineers and technicians to ensure efficient production processes.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and quality.
Manufacturing Engineering
  • Develop and implement manufacturing processes, procedures, and documentation for large and heavy defense industry products.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, procurement, and production, to ensure smooth production flow.
  • Monitor and analyze production data and metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions as needed.
Quality and Safety
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and industry standards to maintain a safe and environmentally friendly work environment.
  • Collaborate with the Quality team to develop and implement quality control processes into manufacturing to ensure products meet customer and regulatory requirements.
  • Ensure a safe working environment by identifying and mitigating potential hazards.
Continuous Improvement
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement changes to increase efficiency, reduce waste, improve quality, and drive operational performance.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement lean manufacturing principles and tools.
Additional Responsibilities
  • Manage and oversee the implementation of new equipment, technologies, and automation systems to enhance manufacturing capabilities and efficiency.
  • Develop and manage the manufacturing engineering budget, ensuring optimal allocation of resources and cost control.
  • Collaborate with suppliers and vendors to source and evaluate new technologies, materials, and equipment to improve manufacturing processes and reduce costs.
  • Provide technical support and guidance to resolve complex manufacturing issues, troubleshoot problems, and optimize production output.
If you're a motivated and experienced manufacturing leader looking for a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field and 10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • At least 4 years of demonstrated progressive leadership with the following three areas of expertise or a mix of all 3:
  • Strong knowledge of welding processes, including shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW).
  • Experience with assembly processes, including fixture design and development.
  • Strong understanding of electrical / mechanical / or hydraulic systems
  • Experience with CAD software, such as CATIA, SolidWorks, or Autodesk Inventor.
  • Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, such as SAP or Oracle or similar.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
  • Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) or Certified Professional Engineer (PE).
  • Experience in the defense industry or similar highly regulated sector.
  • Experience with Industry 4.0 Technologies, Oracle, and Manufacturing Enterprise Systems (MES)
  • Process Ownership
  • Experience developing, implementing, or optimizing welding and assembly processes
  • Experience ensuring weld quality and integrity through process development, testing, and validation.
  • Experience optimizing assembly processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a team towards achieving goals and objectives.
  • Proven ability to Lead and manage a cross functional manufacturing engineering team, providing guidance, mentoring, and training to ensure the team's success and professional growth.
  • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to analyze complex situations and develop effective solutions.
  • In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, including assembly methods, machining, fabrication, and automation.
  • Proficiency in lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and budgets.
  • Familiarity with regulatory requirements and compliance in manufacturing operations
  • Strong analytical skills, with the ability to analyze data and metrics to drive process improvements and optimization.
  • Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt). #LI-Onsite #LI-JR1

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $136000 - $231200
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems Platforms & Services
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
The Platforms & Services (P&S) sector under BAE Systems, Inc does the big stuff: the armored combat vehicles, naval guns, missile launchers, and ship repair...just to name a few. Our employees take pride in the work they do and why they do it. They are on the front lines every day, building our products to protect the lives of those who serve. We may be biased, but we think P&S does some of the coolest work around, and we think you will too.

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