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Defense Innovation Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Progressive

Insurance Defense Attorney

Troy, MI · Hybrid

$108K - $119K/yr

As an insurance defense attorney within our No-Fault litigation team, you'll be a part of our motor ... Innovation, Purposes & Values, Work-Life Flexibility, Compensation & Benefits, and Leadership.

Oshkosh Corporation

Defense Chief Engineer

Hudson, MI · On-site

Pratt Miller Defense is a leader in driving innovation, with a talented and dynamic team dedicated to transforming the future of defense solutions. We integrate cutting-edge technologies, develop ...

Ricardo Defense

Integrated Master Scheduler

Troy, MI · On-site

Detroit Defense has a strong history of delivering advanced solutions to the Department of War (DoW). Dive into innovation in Systems Engineering, Combat Vehicle Integration, Digital Transformation ...

Detroit Defense

Integrated Master Scheduler

Troy, MI

Detroit Defense has a strong history of delivering advanced solutions to the Department of War (DoW). Dive into innovation in Systems Engineering, Combat Vehicle Integration, Digital Transformation ...

Detroit Defense

IT Support Technician

Troy, MI

$54K - $62K/yr

Detroit Defense has a long history of delivering advanced solutions to the Department of War (DOW). Dive into innovation in Systems Engineering, Combat Vehicle Integration, Digital Transformation ...

New

Detroit Defense

Proposal Manager

Troy, MI · Hybrid

$135K - $155K/yr

Detroit Defense has a long history of delivering advanced solutions to the Department of Defense. Dive into innovation in Systems Engineering, Combat Vehicle Integration, Digital Transformation ...

Ricardo Defense

Proposal Manager

Troy, MI · On-site

$135K/yr

Detroit Defense has a long history of delivering advanced solutions to the Department of Defense. Dive into innovation in Systems Engineering, Combat Vehicle Integration, Digital Transformation ...

Ricardo Defense

Embedded Software Developer

Troy, MI · On-site

$85K/yr

At Detroit Defense, we deliver mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, protect the warfighter, and enable readiness through innovation, technical excellence, and end-to-end ...

Detroit Defense

Embedded Software Developer

Troy, MI · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

At Detroit Defense, we deliver mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, protect the warfighter, and enable readiness through innovation, technical excellence, and end-to-end ...

Ricardo Defense

Corporate Controller

Troy, MI · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

At Detroit Defense, we deliver mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, protect the warfighter, and enable readiness through innovation, technical excellence, and end-to-end ...

Detroit Defense

Corporate Controller

Troy, MI · On-site

$165K - $200K/yr

At Detroit Defense, we deliver mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, protect the warfighter, and enable readiness through innovation, technical excellence, and end-to-end ...

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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 Michigan? For Defense Innovation jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Innovation jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Innovation jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Defense Innovation jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Defense Innovation job openings:
Defense Innovation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Innovation job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Chief Engineer - Defense Systems & Advanced Vehicle Technologies

Chief Engineer - Defense Systems & Advanced Vehicle Technologies

GLOBAL Recruitment Solutions LLC

Milford, MI • Hybrid

$145K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Location: New Hudson, Michigan
Compensation: $145,000 – $196,000 + Annual Bonus (10-15%)
Work Arrangement: Primarily Onsite (Occasional Remote Flexibility)
Travel: Approximately 10-15%
Security Clearance: Must possess or be eligible to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance

Lead the Future of Defense Innovation

An industry-leading defense engineering organization is seeking a highly experienced Chief Engineer to drive the development of next-generation defense technologies and advanced vehicle systems. This leadership role combines technical strategy, engineering execution, customer engagement, and team development to deliver innovative solutions that support military and national security missions.

This position is ideal for an experienced defense engineering leader with expertise in lethality, survivability, combat vehicle systems, weapon systems integration, and advanced military technologies.

What You'll Do

As Chief Engineer, you will serve as the technical authority and engineering leader for critical defense programs, guiding multidisciplinary teams from concept development through deployment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead technical execution of advanced defense and military vehicle programs.
  • Oversee engineering teams, providing technical leadership, mentoring, and professional development.
  • Drive proposal development, customer engagement, and strategic growth initiatives.
  • Establish technical roadmaps and system architectures aligned with customer requirements and emerging defense needs.
  • Ensure successful delivery of projects with respect to quality, schedule, cost, and customer satisfaction.
  • Review and approve engineering designs, technical specifications, and design changes.
  • Conduct technical trade studies and risk assessments to support key engineering decisions.
  • Collaborate with program management to forecast resources, staffing needs, and technical priorities.
  • Support business development efforts through customer presentations, technical demonstrations, and solution development.
  • Lead technical communications with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
  • Identify emerging technologies and market opportunities that create competitive advantages.
Desired Technical Expertise

Strong candidates will possess experience in several of the following areas:

  • Lethality and Survivability Systems
  • Combat Vehicle Engineering
  • Weapon Systems Integration
  • Fire Control Systems
  • Turret Systems and Ammunition Handling
  • Military Ground Vehicle Development
  • Defense AI and Autonomous Systems
  • Battlefield Systems and Virtual Environments
  • Vehicle Architecture and Integration
  • Systems Engineering
  • Functional Safety and Safety-Critical Software
  • Hybrid and Electrified Vehicle Systems
  • Test & Evaluation (T&E)
  • Verification & Validation (V&V)
  • Systems Safety Engineering
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 15+ years of progressive engineering experience within the defense industry.
  • Demonstrated experience leading complex defense development programs.
  • Strong understanding of defense acquisition processes, government contracts, and military customer requirements.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.
  • Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams and technical execution.
Preferred
  • Advanced degree (MS or higher).
  • Experience with advanced military vehicle platforms and weapon systems.
  • Hands-on experience with fielded military systems.
  • Knowledge of Lean Product Development methodologies.
  • Experience leading cross-functional engineering organizations.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
  • Executive-level technical leadership role with significant influence on future defense technologies.
  • Opportunity to shape next-generation military systems and capabilities.
  • High visibility with defense customers and senior leadership.
  • Strong compensation package with bonus potential.
  • Career growth path into broader technical and organizational leadership roles.

If you're a defense engineering leader passionate about developing innovative solutions that support the warfighter and national security missions, we encourage you to apply.