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Engineering Manager Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Defense Growth

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

THE POSITION Saildrone is seeking a Manager, Defense Growth to join our Department of War (DoW ... Operating in close partnership with Product, Engineering, and Mission Operations teams, we ...

Engineering Manager

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical ... management foundation of a functional engineering group. You will oversee resource planning ...

Minimum BS in Engineering, Economics, Finance, or a related degree * Knowledge of Government ... Program Manager: $90,000 - $120,000 Other Compensation and Benefits * Target Cash Bonus of 5% of ...

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GENERAL MANAGER Defense Engineering-R&D-Manufacturing www.lbicorp.com www.lbifiberglass.com Lead. Build. Grow. We are seeking an experienced, entrepreneurial General Manager to lead the growth and ...

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Engineering Manager Defense information

See salary details

$46.5K

$146.9K

$174K

How much do engineering manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineering manager defense in the United States is $146,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an engineering manager in defense do?

An Engineering Manager in Defense oversees engineering teams that design, develop, and maintain military systems, equipment, or technologies. They coordinate projects, ensure compliance with defense industry standards, and liaise with stakeholders to meet project goals. Additionally, they manage budgets, timelines, and team performance while ensuring security protocols and quality standards are met. Their role is crucial in delivering innovative and reliable solutions to support national defense objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering manager in defense?

To thrive as an Engineering Manager in Defense, you need a strong background in engineering principles, project management, and often a relevant degree such as in electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering, along with security clearance. Familiarity with defense industry standards, systems engineering tools (like DOORS or MATLAB), and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma are typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills are crucial for managing multidisciplinary teams and stakeholder expectations. These competencies ensure the delivery of complex defense projects on time, within budget, and in compliance with strict regulatory and security requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by engineering managers in the defense industry, and how can they be addressed?

Engineering Managers in the defense sector often face the challenge of balancing strict regulatory compliance with innovation and project deadlines. Navigating complex government requirements while ensuring teams remain agile and motivated can be demanding. Building strong communication channels between cross-functional teams, staying updated with evolving defense standards, and fostering a culture of accountability are key strategies to address these challenges. Additionally, effective stakeholder management and continuous professional development help Engineering Managers lead their teams to success in this highly regulated environment.

What is the difference between Engineering Manager Defense vs Engineering Manager Civil?

AspectEngineering Manager DefenseEngineering Manager Civil
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, security clearances often requiredBachelor's or higher in Civil Engineering, licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government facilities, secure sitesConstruction sites, urban planning, infrastructure projects
Employer & IndustryDefense agencies, military contractorsConstruction firms, government agencies, urban development
Common Search & ComparisonDefense projects, military engineering managementConstruction management, infrastructure projects

Engineering Manager Defense and Engineering Manager Civil roles share leadership in engineering projects but differ mainly in industry focus, credentials, and work environment. Defense managers often require security clearances and work on military or government defense projects, while civil managers focus on infrastructure and construction within urban or public sectors.

What cities are hiring for Engineering Manager Defense jobs?

Cities with the most Engineering Manager Defense job openings:

What states have the most Engineering Manager Defense jobs?

States with the most job openings for Engineering Manager Defense jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Engineering Manager Defense jobs?

For Engineering Manager Defense jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Engineering Manager Defense job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,868 per year, or $70.6 per hour.

Engineering Manager

Cincinnati, OH

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What’s your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it’s the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We’re one of the nation’s leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it’s like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: https://www.fairbanksmorsedefense.com/careers

Federal Equipment Company has been a leading supplier for marine deck machinery and specialized weapons and material handling systems. The company, now part of Fairbanks Morse Defense, is rapidly growing.

Position: Engineering Manager

Position Summary

Consistent with our core values, we expect the engineering manager to be a high-energy team leader with unquestioned integrity and a drive to make FEC successful in the implementation of government contracts. This role requires a professional who can utilize their experience to guide their team in designing and producing safe products for our customers in an efficient manner.

The engineering manager will be a working manager that is responsible for leading a team of 5+ senior engineers in development of new products for US DOD and DHS customers. In this role, you will assist in the creation and implementation of standard processes, be involved in long term planning, and contribute to the business strategy. This position reports to the director of engineering.

Principle Duties and Responsibilities

  • Be technical expert of assigned projects. Detailed mechanical design including:
    • 3D Modeling
    • Engineering drawings
    • Design calcs
      • FEA
      • Hand calcs
      • Tolerance Stack Up
    • Tech Manuals
    • Support production
      • Analyze Non-Conformances and troubleshoot issues
  • Lead a team of 5+ senior technical professionals:
    • Personnel management including performance reviews, corrective feedback, hiring, and disciplinary action
    • Responsible for staffing & resource planning
    • Promote adherence to internal company design and development standards
    • Actively track team hours billed against progress milestones to ensure engineering budgets are met
  • Support the leadership team in technical communications with the customer
  • Work in office and may be required to occasionally travel to customer or supplier locations or to meet with internal teams
  • Support bids and proposals as required.

Qualifications, Skills and Educational Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering with a minimum of 10 years of prior related experience. Master’s degree (MS, MENG, or MBA) preferred but not required.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams, including the ability to appropriately balance team and individual workloads and provide feedback for performance coaching
  • Strong root cause analysis and problem-solving ability
  • Experienced with performing finite element analysis. Preference for expertise in nonlinear structural, shock, and vibration simulation
  • Proficient in engineering software. Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk Vault, Ansys preferred.
  • Experienced with product development in highly regulated industries i.e. medical, aerospace, defense
  • Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills
  • Experience interacting with manufacturing, assembly, supply chain, customers, and vendors.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead programs/projects
  • Ability to document, plan, market, and execute engineering tasks
  • Advanced DFM and Risk Assessment experience
  • Strong communications skills (verbal, written and presentation); ability to clearly and concisely express and present information (or data) to non-technical associates, peers, and senior management
  • Highly motivated, self-determined spirit
  • Flexibility to adjust and thrive in an environment with changing requirements, schedules and priorities for multiple projects or assignments
  • Willingness and flexibility to travel up to 10%
  • Proficient in Microsoft products (MS Office & Office 365, MS Project)

This specification is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty that will be required of positions that will be given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his/her supervision. Ability to competently perform all the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, demonstrated commitment to effective customer service delivery, and the ability to work productively as a member of a team or work group are basic requirements of all positions at Fairbanks Morse Defense.

Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled