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Mechanical Engineer Defense Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

STS Technical Services

Mechanical Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

STS Technical Services is seeking experienced Mechanical Engineers to support product design ... defense, and industrial sectors. We connect engineers and technical professionals with roles that ...

Keel

Mechanical Engineer

Saginaw, MI · On-site

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent experience in the field and knowledge of ...

Keel

Mechanical Engineer

Saginaw, MI · On-site

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent experience in the field and knowledge of ...

Keel

Mechanical Engineer

Saginaw, MI

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent experience in the field and knowledge of ...

Keel - Michigan

Mechanical Engineer

Saginaw, MI · On-site

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent experience in the field and knowledge of ...

Salient Motion

Mechanical Engineer

Saginaw, MI

... and Defense. If you're excited about disrupting legacy industries, and passionate about motor ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical or related engineering discipline * 2+ years of experience with the ...

Salient Motion

Mechanical Engineer

Saginaw, MI · On-site

... and Defense. If you're excited about disrupting legacy industries, and passionate about motor ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical or related engineering discipline * 2+ years of experience with the ...

Campbell Grinder

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Spring Lake, MI · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

... defense, and machinery industries. We are seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer with a specialty in the design and development of CNC grinding machines to join our dynamic team. Position ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer Defense JobsMechanical Engineer Defense Jobs in Michigan

Mechanical Engineer Defense information

See Michigan salary details

$39.7K

$89.7K

$145.1K

How much do mechanical engineer defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer defense in Michigan is $89,668.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $110,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical engineer defense?

A Mechanical Engineer in the defense industry designs, develops, and tests mechanical systems for military applications. Their work may involve creating weapons, vehicles, aircraft, or advanced defense systems while ensuring compliance with safety and government regulations. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to improve performance, durability, and efficiency in high-stress environments. Security clearances are often required, and projects may involve classified or sensitive information.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a mechanical engineer defense, and how does the role interact with other departments?

A Mechanical Engineer Defense typically spends their days designing and evaluating mechanical components or systems used in military equipment, running simulations, preparing technical documentation, and performing tests on prototypes. Collaboration is frequent with cross-functional teams such as electrical engineers, systems engineers, project managers, and manufacturing specialists to ensure seamless integration of components and compliance with stringent defense standards. Effective communication across departments is key, as projects often involve coordinating complex requirements and adhering to tight deadlines. This dynamic environment provides exposure to advanced technology and opportunities to contribute to national security while working alongside skilled professionals from diverse technical backgrounds.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineer defense, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer in the defense sector, a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with mechanical design and manufacturing processes are essential. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or AutoCAD), finite element analysis tools, and security clearance requirements is often necessary. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure the engineer can design, test, and deliver reliable systems in a highly regulated and collaborative defense environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer Defense jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer Defense jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineer Defense jobs in Michigan?

For Mechanical Engineer Defense jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Defense jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Defense jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Defense jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Mechanical Engineer Defense job openings:

Mechanical Engineer Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Defense job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,668 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI • On-site

Horstman Inc
Machinery Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Horstman Incexternal

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer

Department: 400

Reports To:Director of Engineering

FLSA: Salary - Exempt

Prepared By:Human Resources

HORSTMAN

Horstman is a developer of high-performance independent suspension systems for both the defense industry and commercial markets. Horstman has a pedigree of developing innovative suspension solutions for both tracked and wheeled vehicles since the 1920’s. Horstman is looking for driven technical engineers, interested in helping Horstman stay at the forefront of suspension technology for the next 100 years.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF POSITION

The Mechanical Engineer (Project or Design Assignment) is a flexible engineering role supporting project-focused responsibilities and detailed design activities. Based on workload and customer program requirements, the engineer may lead project execution or perform hands on CAD design, analysis, and documentation.

PRIMARY FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIESResponsibilities may include:
  • Lead engineering projects from concept through production, including requirements management, design reviews, and schedule tracking.
  • Develop concept designs, feasibility studies, system trade analyses, and define performance targets aligned with customer needs.
  • Design and package suspension systems, including new components, hydraulic

    • features, structural parts, and integration of existing Horstman technologies into new vehicle platforms.

  • Create and maintain 3D CAD models, detailed manufacturing drawings with

    • GD&T, and Bills of Materials using SolidWorks, Creo, and MRP tools.

  • Perform stress calculations, basic structural/FEA analyses, and select materials, hardware, seals, bearings, gears, and other components.
  • Coordinate prototyping, testing, validation, corrective actions, and support

    • manufacturing with released drawings, workflows, ECRs, and supplier interaction.

  • Manage engineering data, file structures, and changes within SolidWorks PDM.
  • Present project updates, technical data, and test outcomes to customers and internal teams, communicating milestones, risks, and next steps.
  • Collaborate with senior engineering staff to develop new concepts and refine

    • existing designs.

    BASIC REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor’s or Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 57+ years of engineering experience in design, project engineering a combination of both preferred.
  • Strong CAD modeling and drawing skills (SolidWorks).
  • Knowledge of mechanical systems for heavy commercial or defense vehicle

    • applications. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Proficiency in

    MS Office.

  • Ability to work effectively in either projectfocused or designfocused roles

    • depending on assignment.

    PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience with suspension systems for wheeled or tracked vehicles.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic power units, valves, tubing, hoses, and fittings.
  • Experience with milspec hardware, procurement, and related process specifications. Material experience (stainless, tool steels, titanium, aluminum).
  • Stress analysis experience and familiarity with manufacturing processes.
  • Experience with damping valve tuning or systemlevel performance testing.
    • WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • Occasional travel required (local, national, international)
  • May be exposed to various outdoor weather conditions including but not limited to heat, cold, wind, rain and humidity
  • Occasional exposure to work near moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles; risk of vibration
  • Moderate noise level when working in shop environment

Apply