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National Defense Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Columbia City, IN · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

As a Manufacturing Engineer, you play a direct role in national defense by turning engineering designs into repeatable, high-quality production realities. This is a floor-driven, ownership-heavy role ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Columbia City, IN · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

As a Manufacturing Engineer, you play a direct role in national defense by turning engineering designs into repeatable, high-quality production realities. This is a floor-driven, ownership-heavy role ...

Manufacturing Engineer SR

Columbia City, IN

$83K - $114K/yr

As a Manufacturing Engineer, you play a direct role in national defense by turning engineering designs into repeatable, high-quality production realities. This is a floor-driven, ownership-heavy role ...

Manufacturing Engineer SR

Columbia City, IN · On-site

$83K - $114K/yr

As a Manufacturing Engineer, you play a direct role in national defense by turning engineering designs into repeatable, high-quality production realities. This is a floor-driven, ownership-heavy role ...

CSSP Analyst, Senior

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Founded by a Service-Disabled Veteran, we bring mission-driven expertise in engineering support, logistics coordination, and program execution to critical national defense initiatives. As an Equal ...

Production Tank Assemblers

South Bend, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Be part of a team that supports national defense and delivers high-performance systems to our military partners. If you're driven by purpose, precision, and performance, we want to hear from you.

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Showing results 1-20

National Defense information

See Indiana salary details

$5

$30

$76

How much do national defense jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for national defense in Indiana is $30.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $43.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between National Defense vs Military Intelligence?

AspectNational DefenseMilitary Intelligence
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, military or defense-related educationSecurity clearances, intelligence analysis training, military or civilian intelligence certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, military bases, defense facilitiesIntelligence agencies, military units, government offices
Employer & Industry UsageDepartment of Defense, military branches, governmentDefense agencies, intelligence community, military units

National Defense focuses on protecting the country through military operations, policy, and strategic planning. Military Intelligence specializes in gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information to support military decision-making. While both roles serve the defense sector and require security clearances, National Defense has a broader scope, whereas Military Intelligence is more specialized in intelligence activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a national defense role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a National Defense role, you generally need a solid educational background in fields like political science, engineering, or international relations, along with relevant security clearances. Familiarity with intelligence analysis tools, defense communication systems, and sometimes specialized certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or PMP are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork abilities are crucial soft skills for success in high-pressure and collaborative environments. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure national security, effective mission execution, and the ability to adapt to rapidly evolving threats.

What is national defense?

National defense refers to the protection and security of a nation against external threats, such as military attacks or espionage. This typically involves the use of armed forces, intelligence agencies, and strategic planning to safeguard a country's interests and maintain its sovereignty. National defense also includes efforts to prepare for and respond to emergencies, support allies, and participate in international security arrangements. The overall goal is to ensure the safety, stability, and prosperity of the nation and its citizens.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in national defense roles?

Professionals in national defense roles often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, maintaining strict confidentiality, and responding to high-pressure situations. The work environment is typically collaborative, involving coordination with multiple government agencies, military branches, and private contractors. Additionally, national defense roles may require ongoing training and flexible schedules to meet mission-critical objectives, but they also offer unique opportunities for career advancement and skill development within a highly structured system.
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Defense jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for National Defense jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most National Defense job openings:
Infographic showing various National Defense job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,537 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Project Engineer for Rapid Defense Solutions

V2X

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


V2X rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 447 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
Working across the globe, V2X builds smart solutions designed to integrate physical and digital infrastructure from base to battlefield. We bring 120 years of successful mission support to improve security, streamline logistics, and enhance readiness. Aligned around a shared purpose, our $3.9B company and 16,000 people work alongside our clients, here and abroad, to tackle their most complex challenges with integrity, respect, responsibility, and professionalism.
Role Overview: Are you ready to lead the charge in creating cutting-edge, mission-critical solutions? As a Project Engineer supporting the engineering team in Indianapolis, Indiana you'll be at the forefront of rapidly developing and deploying specialized systems for the U.S. government. From modifying aircraft with advanced mission systems to prototyping innovative technologies, you'll drive projects that are agile, high-impact, and critical to national defense. This role offers a rare opportunity to work on multidisciplinary projects in close collaboration with customers and stakeholders, tackling complex challenges with speed, adaptability, and technical excellence. This role offers pathways for leadership growth, mentorship opportunities, and direct contributions to mission success.
Responsibilities
V2X Overview: Working across the globe, V2X builds smart solutions designed to integrate physical and digital infrastructure from base to battlefield. We bring 120 years of successful mission support to improve security, streamline logistics, and enhance readiness. Aligned around a shared purpose, our $3.9B company and 16,000 people work alongside our clients, here and abroad, to tackle their most complex challenges with integrity, respect, responsibility, and professionalism.
Project Engineering at V2X: Project Engineering is a specialized field within engineering that focuses on planning, managing, and executing projects. It combines technical expertise with project management skills to successfully achieve project objectives. Project Engineering demands a robust understanding of the project life cycle and its deliverables. Project engineers possess extensive engineering experience, particularly in the development and execution of engineering projects.
Role Overview: Are you ready to lead the charge in creating cutting-edge, mission-critical solutions? As a Project Engineer supporting the engineering team in Indianapolis, Indiana you'll be at the forefront of rapidly developing and deploying specialized systems for the U.S. government. From modifying aircraft with advanced mission systems to prototyping innovative technologies, you'll drive projects that are agile, high-impact, and critical to national defense. This role offers a rare opportunity to work on multidisciplinary projects in close collaboration with customers and stakeholders, tackling complex challenges with speed, adaptability, and technical excellence. This role offers pathways for leadership growth, mentorship opportunities, and direct contributions to mission success.
Key Responsibilities: As the Project Engineer, you will be responsible for:
Technical Leadership:
  • Lead multidisciplinary teams to develop and deploy innovative solutions that meet mission-critical objectives.
  • Provide technical oversight for projects involving advanced system modifications, platform integrations, and rapid prototyping.

Agile Project Management:
  • Plan, monitor, and execute projects within compressed timelines, ensuring alignment with customer requirements.
  • Manage project schedules, budgets, and risks effectively while delivering quality solutions.

System Integration and Testing:
  • Coordinate the integration of specialized mission systems, sensors, and communication technologies onto various platforms.
  • Oversee validation, verification, and testing to ensure systems perform as intended under operational conditions.

Customer and Stakeholder Collaboration:
  • Work closely with U.S. government agencies, operators, and field users to define requirements and refine solutions.
  • Maintain strong relationships with stakeholders to ensure mission success.

Compliance and Documentation:
  • Ensure all deliverables meet applicable standards, military specifications, and DoD compliance.
  • Create and maintain detailed documentation throughout the life cycle of each project.

Problem Solving and Adaptability:
  • Address technical challenges and operational risks with innovative and adaptable solutions.
  • Manage time-sensitive projects requiring discretion.

Qualifications
Required Skills:
  • Strong background in systems engineering, including requirements management, integration, verification, and validation.
  • Expertise in project planning tools like Microsoft Project and advanced scheduling techniques.
  • Working knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM) and experience in tracking project cost, schedule, and performance metrics.
  • Demonstrated success in leading high-impact technical projects on tight schedules.
  • Proven ability to evaluate technical risks, plan mitigations, and ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget.
  • Ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary technical teams.
  • Strong communication skills to engage stakeholders, present technical information, and facilitate collaboration across teams.
  • Experience mentoring team members and promoting process adherence.
  • Understanding of configuration management and quality management principles to ensure compliance with processes.
  • Ability to synthesize technical and program data to identify and resolve complex challenges decisively.
  • Experience with risk and opportunity management throughout the product lifecycle.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Teams, and communication platforms.
  • Familiarity with Agile methodologies, including backlog creation and management in tools like Azure DevOps.
  • Basic understanding of interpreting technical drawings, specifications, and documentation.
  • Ability to obtain or maintain a U.S. Government Secret Security Clearance.
  • U.S. Citizenship required for security clearance eligibility.

Desired Skills:
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification.
  • Experience in systems engineering (IEEE 15288), project management (PMI PMBOK), standards compliance (ISO 9001, AS9100), agile methodologies, and tools like SAP S4/HANA, Azure, Jira, Windchill, GitHub, and configuration/risk management systems.
  • Experience in integrating mechanical, electrical, software, and communication systems for vehicle platforms.

Education Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field with 6+ years of experience.
  • Master's degree in STEM or MBA preferred.

At V2X, we are deeply committed to both equal employment opportunity, including protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We ensure all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength that comes from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment, aligned with our core Vision and Values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, allows us to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and expand our success in the global marketplace, ultimately enabling us to best serve our clients.
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What V2X employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About V2X

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1945