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Ricardo Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Project Manager

Troy, MI · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Detroit Defense has delivered innovative engineering and technology solutions to the Department of War (DoW), driving advancements in systems engineering, combat vehicle integration, digital ...

Systems Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Detroit Defense is seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to serve as the Technical Lead for a newly developed product for our military customer. This is a high ...

Detroit Defense has a long history of delivering advanced solutions to the Department of War (DOW). Dive into innovation in Systems Engineering, Combat Vehicle Integration, Digital Transformation ...

Product Line Director

Troy, MI · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Detroit Defense is seeking a Product Line Director, Vehicle Modernization to own the definition, configuration discipline, and roadmap execution of the Vehicle ...

Ricardo Defense information

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$11

$24

$60

How much do ricardo defense jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for ricardo defense in the United States is $24.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Ricardo Defense?

Ricardo Defense is a division of Ricardo, a global engineering, environmental, and strategic consultancy company. Ricardo Defense specializes in providing engineering, technology, and support solutions to defense and security clients, including military vehicle engineering, integration, and sustainment services. Their work includes designing, testing, and upgrading vehicles and systems to improve safety, performance, and mission effectiveness for armed forces. The company collaborates with government agencies and defense contractors to deliver innovative solutions for complex defense challenges.

What types of projects can I expect to work on at Ricardo Defense, and how do these projects involve cross-functional collaboration?

As a member of the Ricardo Defense team, you will likely engage in a variety of projects focused on engineering solutions for defense applications, such as vehicle systems, mission-critical software, and modernization initiatives. These projects often require close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, project managers, and client representatives from government and military sectors. You can expect to contribute to both the technical development and the integration of solutions, frequently working alongside experts in mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering. This collaborative structure provides excellent exposure to complex challenges and offers opportunities for professional growth within the defense industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at Ricardo Defense, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Industry Professional at Ricardo Defense, you need expertise in engineering, project management, and defense industry standards, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with military or defense projects. Familiarity with CAD software, defense regulations like ITAR, and quality management systems such as ISO 9001 is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These skills are vital for ensuring the delivery of innovative, compliant, and mission-critical defense solutions.

What is the difference between Ricardo Defense vs Ricardo Engineer?

AspectRicardo DefenseRicardo Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, security clearance (if applicable)Engineering degree, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government projects, secure facilitiesDesign labs, R&D centers, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense and aerospace sectorsAutomotive, aerospace, and engineering consulting
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Ricardo Defense focuses on defense-related projects, including military vehicle and weapon systems, requiring security clearances and specialized knowledge. Ricardo Engineer covers a broader engineering scope, working on automotive, aerospace, and industrial projects. While both roles require engineering degrees, Ricardo Defense positions often demand additional security credentials and experience in defense environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path within Ricardo's diverse engineering divisions.

What does Ricardo Defense do?

Ricardo Defense is a division of Ricardo that provides engineering, development, and manufacturing services for defense and military applications. It specializes in areas such as vehicle systems, weapons, and simulation, often requiring technical expertise and security clearances for employees.
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What job categories do people searching Ricardo Defense jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Ricardo Defense jobs are:

Infographic showing various Ricardo Defense job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,854 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

$100K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Detroit Defense is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the development of projects that support the nation's defense.
Detroit Defense has delivered innovative engineering and technology solutions to the Department of War (DoW), driving advancements in systems engineering, combat vehicle integration, digital transformation, cybersecurity, IT, data analytics, and software development. In this role, you will lead cross-functional engineering teams, oversee project execution, and ensure the successful delivery of high-reliability systems while maintaining compliance with industry standards.
If you're passionate about engineering, leading complex technical programs, and making a meaningful impact on national security, Detroit Defense offers an opportunity for rapid professional growth-Behind the Mission. Beyond the Challenge.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist in preparation of responses to customer opportunities, including white papers, proposals, rough order of magnitude estimates and responses to customer requests for information.
  • Manage scope, budget, schedule, and EVMS reporting; communicate program status to upper management and stakeholders via Program Management Reviews and other formal and informal methods.
  • Develop and maintain project documentation, including status reports, risk registers, and technical requirement specs.
  • Work unplanned program issues to a best solution, including development of plans-forward, escalation and increased resources, as required; resolve conflicts, demands, and priorities on assigned programs.
  • Identifies and coordinates with key level horizontal and vertical stakeholders between program major activities, teams, suppliers, partners and customers; coordinate inputs from support organizations including engineering, contracts, finance, pricing, and others as needed.
  • Occasionally travel to domestic or international customer sites (15%)

Requirements
  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited College or University in a relevant field of study
  • A Minimum of five years of experience in project management
  • PMP and/or PMI-ACP Certification (Highly Recommended)
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a US Secret Security Clearance.

Detroit Defense offers an impressive compensation and benefits package including:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits
  • Company Paid Life and AD&D
  • Company Paid Short Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending & HSA Accounts
  • Legal & ID Shield Services
  • 401k with Company Match
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid Time Off ( PTO)

Why Detroit Defense:
At Detroit Defense, we deliver mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, protect the warfighter, and enable readiness through innovation, technical excellence, and end-to-end lifecycle support.
Remaining steadfast in our core values of Trustworthy, Mission Driven, Creative, and Agile we are a complex systems integrator for the U.S. Government, Detroit Defense provides solutions to meet the technical and programmatic challenges faced by our customers. Our proven success in multi-domain cross-platform system-of-systems integration results in fielded capability for warfighters. From R&D to production, fielding, and sustainment, Detroit Defense provides services and solutions to Empower Those That protect Us.
Veterans Encouraged to Apply: Detroit Defense proudly supports those who have served. We welcome applicants with military experience, including those transitioning to civilian careers. Your leadership, adaptability, and mission-focused mindset are valued here.
Detroit Defense is a proud recipient of the 2022, 2023 & 2024 Hire Vets Gold Medallion Award.
Detroit Defense is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity or gender expression), age, mental or physical disability, creed, ancestry, citizenship, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, medical condition, genetic trait or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
Salary Description
$100,000 to $110,000