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Ordnance Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

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Ordnance Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$51.5K

$128.5K

$167.8K

How much do ordnance engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for ordnance engineer in Detroit, MI is $128,484.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,800.00 and $147,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Detroit, MI?

For Ordnance Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ordnance Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Ordnance Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Ordnance Engineer jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Ordnance Engineer job openings:

Ordnance Engineer jobs near you

Ordnance and Initiation Systems Engineering Specialist

People First Recruiting

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Ordnance and Initiation Systems Engineering Specialist

Where: Metro Detroit, MI (Onsite)
Pay: $120,000–$150,000 base + annual bonus + signing bonus
Relocation: Assistance available

Challenge

Own the energetic hardware that lights off aerospace propulsion. Lead the cradle-to-qualification journey for pyrotechnic components—gas generators, initiators, and igniters—at a privately held propulsion manufacturer known for stability and long engineering tenures.

You will
  • Drive full life-cycle ownership: define requirements, write specifications, and establish verification strategies from concept through qualification.
  • Design and analyze energetic components and propellants; collaborate with manufacturing to support scalable production.
  • Plan, execute, and evaluate development and qualification tests; perform data reduction and analysis.
  • Produce and deliver test plans, reports, and documentation packages for stakeholders and reviews.
  • Interpret government regulations, requirements, procedures, and safety standards for energetic devices.
What it takes
  • 10+ years of experience developing and qualifying energetic components.
  • BS+ in Chemistry, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical Engineering; candidates with Project Management backgrounds considered.
  • Applied understanding of requirements verification and validation (V&V).
  • Exposure to ammunition and explosive certification processes.
  • Rigorous analytical mindset, strong organization, and attention to detail.
  • Excellent written communication and documentation skills.
Why you’ll thrive here

Focus on impactful engineering without defense-prime layoff cycles. You’ll own high-consequence hardware, see designs through qualification, and be rewarded with competitive compensation, a signing bonus, and paid relocation.

Domain strengths & tools
  • Domain: energetic, Explosives, Ordnance, Propellant, Pyrotechnics, Warhead
  • Machines & technologies: aerospace
Compliance

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

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.