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Mechanical System Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ND DEFENSE LLC

Brake System Engineer

Madison Heights, MI · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related discipline. * 3+ years of experience in braking system design or vehicle chassis systems engineering, including hands ...

General Motors

Controls System Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Mechanical concepts involving machine designs, process requirements involved in manufacturing ... programming, Ethernet, and Devicenet networks; design and troubleshoot electrical controls systems ...

General Motors

Controls System Engineer

Warren, MI

$78K - $101K/yr

Mechanical concepts involving machine designs, process requirements involved in manufacturing ... programming, Ethernet, and Devicenet networks; design and troubleshoot electrical controls systems ...

Aampower

Sr. System Engineer - Swaybar

Detroit, MI

$103K - $141K/yr

... mechanism, Clutch, etc. * Supports System packaging, sizing analyses & design tools for selecting ... Creates engineering documentation and project deliverables such as DFMEA, DFM/DFA, GD&T dimension ...

Altair Engineering

System Engineer - HPC

Troy, MI · On-site

Transforming the Future with the Convergence of Simulation and Data Systems Engineer - HPC Do you ... with mechanical design to expand product value, develop AI, simulation, and data-driven digital ...

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All JobsMechanical System Engineer JobsMechanical System Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Mechanical System Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$55.3K

$96.1K

$132.5K

How much do mechanical system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical system engineer in Michigan is $96,142.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $114,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Mechanical System Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical System EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping and integrating mechanical systems within larger projectsCreating detailed mechanical component and product designs
Work EnvironmentSystems integration, testing, and validation in manufacturing or engineering firmsDesign studios, CAD modeling, and prototype development
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, CAD certifications

Mechanical System Engineers focus on integrating and managing entire mechanical systems, while Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on designing specific components. Both roles often collaborate but serve different stages of product development and system integration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mechanical System Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical System Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, system design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and industry certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) are often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure efficient design, implementation, and maintenance of complex mechanical systems, leading to reliable project outcomes and innovation.

What does a Mechanical System Engineer do?

A Mechanical System Engineer designs, develops, and oversees the installation and maintenance of complex mechanical systems in various industries. Their work often involves integrating mechanical components with electrical and software systems to ensure the overall functionality and efficiency of machines or equipment. They may be responsible for tasks such as performing simulations, analyzing system performance, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Mechanical System Engineers play a critical role in industries like automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy. Their expertise ensures that mechanical systems operate safely, reliably, and efficiently.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior roles in software or systems engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in senior management or executive levels within large organizations.

What does a mechanical systems engineer do?

A mechanical systems engineer designs, analyzes, and maintains complex mechanical systems such as HVAC, manufacturing equipment, or robotics. They use engineering principles, CAD software, and testing to ensure systems operate efficiently, safely, and meet project specifications. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of thermodynamics, mechanics, and control systems are essential in this role.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior mechanical system engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in design and analysis, and often working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or energy can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires advanced degrees, professional certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Earning $200,000 annually as a mechanical engineer is possible but typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, working in high-paying industries such as aerospace or energy, or holding senior management or specialized roles. Most mechanical engineers earn between $70,000 and $120,000 per year, with top earners in certain sectors reaching higher salaries.

What are some common challenges Mechanical System Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Mechanical System Engineers often collaborate closely with electrical, software, and civil engineers on multidisciplinary projects. A common challenge is ensuring effective communication between teams, as each discipline may use different technical language and have varying priorities. Managing integration issues and aligning timelines across departments can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, Mechanical System Engineers typically participate in regular cross-functional meetings and use collaborative project management tools to ensure alignment and successful project delivery.
What are popular job titles related to Mechanical System Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Mechanical System Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical System Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical System Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Mechanical System Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Mechanical System Engineer job openings:
Mechanical System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical System Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,142 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Brake System Engineer

ND DEFENSE LLC

Madison Heights, MI • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

ND Defense designs, builds, and manufactures an array of military and commercial products including tactical wheeled vehicles, heavy trucks, and products for multiple other verticals. As our Braking System Engineer, you will work on a wide variety of vehicles across multiple programs.

This is a role for someone who is energized by variety rather than worn down by it. Priorities shift, programs compete for attention, and the ability to pivot without losing momentum on the projects already underway is what makes this job work.

What You'll Do

  • Design and integrate braking systems across drive-by-wire conversions and new-vehicle programs, balancing performance, redundancy, and program timelines that do not always wait for perfect information.
  • Juggle multiple braking subsystems, supplier relationships, and test schedules at once, reprioritizing as program needs change.
  • Bring creative problem-solving to ABS/ESC integration, fail-safe design, and on-vehicle issues that do not have an off-the-shelf answer.
  • Help build and refine the processes, standards, and documentation this role runs on; you will often be writing the playbook, not just following it.
  • Get hands-on during prototype builds and on-vehicle validation, solving fit and assembly issues in real time on the shop floor.
  • Look for ways AI tools and automation can take routine analysis or documentation off your plate so you can focus on the engineering that needs a person.

You'll Thrive Here If You...

  • Like working on a wide variety of braking and chassis projects at once and can pivot quickly when priorities shift.
  • Enjoy creative problem-solving and look forward to meeting tough challenges head on.
  • Take initiative, stay driven, and adapt well to a fast-paced, demanding environment.
  • Are comfortable working within processes and standards that are still being built or refined and want to help shape them rather than wait for them to be finished.
  • Are okay with some unknowns and ambiguity and would rather be part of finding the solution than have every answer handed to you.
  • Get excited about AI tools and look for cutting-edge ways to use them to work smarter.
  • Bring a positive, team-oriented attitude to the table, even when the day gets demanding.

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related discipline.
  • 3+ years of experience in braking system design or vehicle chassis systems engineering, including hands-on work with pneumatic brake systems and ABS/ESC integration. Experience with heavy trucks is preferred.
  • Comfortable reviewing and interrogating 3D CAD models and assemblies (e.g., Creo, NX, CATIA) to make fast, sound engineering calls.
  • Knowledge of functional safety requirements and fail-safe design strategies (e.g., ISO 26262) is a plus.
  • Genuine interest in using AI tools to work smarter; not required on day one, but adoption of AI tools over time is expected.
  • Must be a U.S. Person as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.62): a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual.

ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined by 22 CFR §120.62 (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual).


ND Defense LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.