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Tactical Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

The Trim Engineer leads the development of one or more trim programs, providing direction and ... Understands and contributes to A3's, A4's, tactical plans and issues lists. * Provide key point of ...

Deliver permanent corrective actions and architectural recommendations rather than tactical ... Senior Engineer Exp: Prac. In 2 coding lang. or adv. Prac. in 1 lang.; guides. * 10+ years in IT ...

Space, Tactical Missiles, Aviation, Intelligence, Cyber, Automotive, Logistics The Engineer in this role will work directly with automotive customers to develop and install Dynetics automotive test ...

Space, Tactical Missiles, Aviation, Intelligence, Cyber, Automotive, Logistics The Engineer in this role will work directly with automotive customers to develop and install Dynetics automotive test ...

Network Security Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$95K - $131K/yr

Company Description Network Engineer with 3 to 5 years of experience that has strong firewall, IP ... Effective interpersonal and consulting skills to be used to align customer needs to tactical and ...

Chief Engineer, EVSA

Warren, MI · On-site

$180 - $205/hr

Enhanced Vehicle Situational Awareness (EVSA) Chief Engineer Reports To: EVSA Program Manager ... Experience with Army combat or tactical vehicle platforms. * Camera, sensor, or electro‑optical ...

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Tactical Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$58.9K

$110.5K

$201K

How much do tactical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for tactical engineer in Detroit, MI is $110,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,700.00 and $131,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tactical engineer?

A Tactical Engineer is a professional who specializes in providing technical support and engineering solutions in high-pressure, often military or law enforcement, operational environments. Their work involves designing, implementing, and maintaining equipment, systems, and infrastructure to ensure mission success and safety. Tactical Engineers may be tasked with tasks such as fortification construction, explosive ordnance disposal, communications setup, and rapid problem-solving during operations. They work closely with operational teams to adapt engineering principles to field conditions, making their role vital in both planning and real-time scenarios.

How does a tactical engineer typically collaborate with other teams during mission planning and execution?

Tactical Engineers work closely with both operational teams and technical specialists to ensure mission objectives are achieved efficiently and safely. They often participate in cross-functional briefings, provide technical assessments, and advise on the deployment of specialized equipment. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Tactical Engineers must translate technical solutions into actionable strategies for field teams. Their collaborative input is crucial during both the planning phase and real-time operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tactical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tactical Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, problem-solving, and operational planning, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with military technologies, tactical communication systems, and certifications such as Security Clearance are commonly required. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication are vital soft skills for success in dynamic and high-pressure environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring mission effectiveness, safety, and efficient technical support in tactical operations.

What is the difference between Tactical Engineer vs Combat Engineer?

AspectTactical EngineerCombat Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, military or specialized certificationsEngineering degree, military engineering certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary operations, field deployments, strategic planningMilitary combat zones, construction sites, demolition tasks
Industry UsageMilitary, defense, governmentMilitary, defense, engineering units

Both Tactical Engineers and Combat Engineers work within military settings, often sharing similar credentials and environments. Tactical Engineers focus on strategic planning and technical support, while Combat Engineers are more involved in construction, demolition, and field operations. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify their roles in military engineering projects.

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

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

Tactical Vehicle Armor Designer - GM Defense

Warren, MI • Hybrid


General Motors
Transportation Equipment Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 307 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 45 rated automakers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Hybrid: This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to either Warren, MI or Milford, MI three times per week, at minimum.

The Role

GM Defense is looking for a highly performing Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design, integration, and optimization of armor for tactical vehicles. In this role, you will design robust structural components, integrate mission-critical sub-systems, and ensure platforms meet strict performance and survivability standards. You will utilize Siemens NX to balance complex size, weight, power, and cooling budgets while collaborating closely with manufacturing teams.

You will be responsible for developing math and design solutions to meet subsystem and component requirements in a fast-paced environment on government programs as well as special projects.This activity requires creativity, initiative and independent problem-solving skills while supporting cross functional teams for issue resolution. This role requires an individual with drive and passion to embrace technology while becoming an expert in Engineering Best Practices, Manufacturing Requirements, highly skilled in NX, Teamcenter, VisMockup and the Windows Office. This person is expected to adhere to all ITAR requirements (International Traffic in Arms Regulations).

What You'll Do

  • Siemens NX 3D CAD Design: Create advanced 3D models, complex large assemblies, and detailed manufacturing drawings for armor components, chassis/body modifications, and supporting vehicle sub-systems.

  • Survivability Integration: Design full vehicle armor systems, installation kits, blast-mitigating components, and spall liner integrations.

  • SWaP-C Tracking: Manage weight distribution, payload capacity, and center of gravity calculations.

  • DFM/DFA: Apply Design for Manufacturing and Assembly principles for welding, heavy machining, and sheet metal fabrication.

  • Develop Standard Modeling Methods and Processes

  • Perform to Design Standards and Best Practices

  • Demonstrate application of design operations and processes (Standard modeling, Clearance Analysis, etc.)

  • Facilitate and participate in Design Reviews, both scheduled and informal workstation reviews, as required

  • Document and maintain material, mass, and other part specifications within the NX file

  • Support CAE with studies to improve designs

  • Complete, analyze and apply NX Analysis results for solutions of their subsystem / components

  • Support the Global Vehicle Development Process and the math fidelity for each cycle

  • Independently integrate component subsystem design into systems

  • Perform appropriate studies/alternatives and participates in recommendations for program direction

  • Keep abreast of current product developments and trends in area of responsibility

  • Support lessons learned, updating best practices and learning sessions with program teams

  • Proactively communicate effectively with all stakeholders

  • Complete system/subsystem parts to meet timing requirements with quality

  • Actively identify new areas for learning and take advantage of learning opportunities

  • Support current product change management processes

What You'll Need (Required Qualifications)

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

  • 7+ years of mechanical design experience, specifically within defense, armored vehicles, heavy commercial vehicles, or tactical equipment.

  • High proficiency in Siemens NX (UG NX) or related CAD for large assembly management and parametric modeling.

  • Strong understanding of high-strength steels, military-grade aluminum, composites, and ballistic materials.

  • Expert knowledge of ASME Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing standards.

  • Proficiency in NX, Teamcenter, VisMockup, specifications, and data management.

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.

  • High level of Interpersonal skills to work effectively with others including global partners.

  • Working knowledge of CAE and eGD&T.

  • Knowledge of product design concepts and manufacturing processes (i.e. injection molding, stamping, casting, extrusion, machining, etc.).

  • Working knowledge of manufacturing processes to support Vehicle Development.

  • Ability to work independently to solve highly complex problems and lead teams to consensus when needed.

  • Understand Specification and Release terms and systems.

  • Candidate must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, asylee or refugee).

#GMD

#LI-LP2

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate. The position is subject to export control restrictions and requires the successful candidate to be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, asylee or refugee).

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Benefits Overview

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All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

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About General Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908


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