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Ordnance Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Ordnance Engineer information

What is an ordnance engineer?

Ordnance Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the production of weapons, ammunition, explosives, and related military equipment. They work to ensure the effectiveness, safety, and reliability of these systems for use by armed forces. Their roles may involve research, project management, field testing, and collaboration with other engineers and military officials. Ordnance Engineers often require knowledge in mechanical engineering, materials science, and ballistics. They play a critical role in national defense and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ordnance engineer?

To thrive as an Ordnance Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or chemical engineering, physics, and materials science, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, ballistics modeling tools, and knowledge of military standards or safety certifications (such as DoD or ISO) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for designing safe, reliable ordnance systems and ensuring compliance with rigorous safety and performance standards.

What are some common challenges faced by ordnance engineers in ensuring safety during weapons development projects?

Ordnance Engineers often encounter challenges related to maintaining the highest safety standards throughout the design, testing, and manufacturing processes. Handling explosive materials, conducting live-fire tests, and ensuring compliance with strict governmental regulations require meticulous attention to detail and rigorous risk assessments. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including safety officers, quality assurance specialists, and manufacturing personnel—is essential to identify and mitigate hazards. Staying current with evolving safety protocols and technological advancements is also crucial to prevent accidents and ensure reliable performance.

What is the difference between Ordnance Engineer vs Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician?

AspectOrdnance EngineerExplosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in ordnance safetyExplosive ordnance disposal training, certifications in bomb disposal
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and manufacturing of ordnance in labs or factoriesField operations, bomb disposal sites, military or law enforcement settings
Industry UsageMilitary, defense contractors, manufacturingMilitary, law enforcement, specialized bomb disposal units

While both roles involve working with explosive devices, Ordnance Engineers focus on designing and testing ordnance, whereas EOD Technicians specialize in safely disarming and disposing of explosive devices in the field.

What are popular job titles related to Ordnance Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Ordnance Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Ordnance Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Ordnance Engineer job openings:

Energetics Engineer

People First Recruiting

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$57.69 - $72.12/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Energetics Engineer — Aerospace | Metro Detroit, MI

$120,000–$150,000 + annual bonus + signing bonus | Relocation assistance available | Onsite

Design the devices that bring flight-critical systems to life. Our client — a privately-held, well-established aerospace propulsion manufacturer — is hiring an Energetics Engineer with deep expertise in pyrotechnic and energetic components: gas generators, initiators, and igniters.

What you'll do

  • Own energetic components across the full product life cycle — requirements, specifications, and verification from concept through qualification
  • Design and analyze components and propellants, and support their manufacturing
  • Plan and execute development and qualification testing, including data reduction and analysis
  • Prepare and present test plans, reports, and supporting documentation
  • Interpret government regulations, requirements, procedures, and safety standards for energetic devices

What you bring

  • 10+ years in development and qualification of energetic components
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant discipline (Chemistry, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical Engineering; Project Management)
  • Working knowledge of requirements verification and validation (V&V)
  • Familiarity with ammunition and explosive certification processes
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills with sharp attention to detail
  • Clear written communication and solid document-preparation skills
  • U.S. citizenship (required); ability to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance if needed — selected candidates may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information

Why this role

This is a stable, privately-held company with a long-tenure engineering culture — no defense-prime layoff cycles. You'll have real ownership of flight-critical energetic-device development from design through qualification, with strong compensation, a signing bonus, and paid relocation.

Our client is a drug-free workplace; new hires are subject to pre-employment drug testing. Our client is an equal opportunity employer — all qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status.

You should be proficient in:

  • energetic
  • Explosives
  • Ordnance
  • Propellant
  • Pyrotechnics
  • Warhead

Machines & technologies you'll use:

  • aerospace
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