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Weapon Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer III

New Hudson, MI ยท On-site

$125K - $196K/yr

Weapon Systems * Combat Vehicle Engineering * Fire Control Systems * Turrets and Ammo Handling Systems * Virtual Environments and Battlefield Systems * Defense AI and Software * Proficiency in ...

... weapon systems. * i) Design provisions for the addition of auxiliary systems such as power ... Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited college, university or ...

... weapon systems. * i) Design provisions for the addition of auxiliary systems such as power ... Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited college, university or ...

Weapon Systems * Combat Vehicle Engineering * Fire Control Systems * Turrets and Ammo Handling Systems * Virtual Environments and Battlefield Systems * Defense AI and Software * Proficiency in ...

Provide engineering and project management support to DoD program offices overseeing the ... weapon-related subsystems, and crew workstation computing devices and assess how these systems ...

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Showing results 1-20

Weapon Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$38.4K

$92.7K

$151.2K

How much do weapon engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapon engineer in Michigan is $92,725.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,200.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves bonuses, stock options, or working in high-demand industries with complex projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Weapon Engineers when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Weapon Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from fields such as electronics, software, and mechanical engineering. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these disciplines, as each may use different technical languages and design approaches. Successfully integrating various subsystems into a cohesive weapon system also requires strong project management and adaptability to evolving defense requirements. Building strong relationships and maintaining open, solution-focused dialogue with team members are key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Weapon Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and adherence to defense industry standards and certifications such as ITAR compliance are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help individuals excel in designing and testing complex weapon systems. These skills ensure the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of weapons, which are critical for national security and defense objectives.

What does a weapons engineer do?

A weapons engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains weapon systems, including firearms, missiles, and other military or defense-related technology. They often work with specialized tools, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards. Their work may involve research, materials selection, and ensuring weapon performance and safety.

What does a Weapon Engineer do?

A Weapon Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains weapons systems and related technology. They work on a wide range of projects, including firearms, missiles, explosives, and defense systems, ensuring that these weapons are safe, effective, and reliable. Weapon Engineers may also be involved in research, improving existing technologies, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. They often collaborate with other engineers, military personnel, and government agencies to meet specific defense requirements.

How much money do weapon engineers make?

Weapon engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and security clearance levels. Salaries can be higher in defense contracting and government agencies, especially for those with specialized skills in missile systems, firearms, or military technology.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior weapon engineers, aerospace engineers, and systems engineers with extensive experience and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced degrees, security clearances, and expertise in areas such as defense systems, missile technology, or military hardware design.

What is the difference between Weapon Engineer vs Armament Specialist?

AspectWeapon EngineerArmament Specialist
CredentialsEngineering degree, security clearancesTechnical certifications, security clearances
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilitiesField operations, testing sites
Industry UsageDefense contractors, militaryMilitary units, defense agencies

Weapon Engineers focus on designing, developing, and testing weapons systems, often working in labs or manufacturing. Armament Specialists typically handle the deployment, maintenance, and operational support of weapons in the field. While both roles require technical knowledge and security clearances, Weapon Engineers are more involved in the creation process, whereas Armament Specialists focus on operational use and support.

What are popular job titles related to Weapon Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Weapon Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Weapon Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,725 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Chief Engineer - Defense Systems & Advanced Vehicle Technologies

Chief Engineer - Defense Systems & Advanced Vehicle Technologies

GLOBAL Recruitment Solutions LLC

Milford, MI โ€ข Hybrid

$145K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Location: New Hudson, Michigan
Compensation: $145,000 โ€“ $196,000 + Annual Bonus (10-15%)
Work Arrangement: Primarily Onsite (Occasional Remote Flexibility)
Travel: Approximately 10-15%
Security Clearance: Must possess or be eligible to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance

Lead the Future of Defense Innovation

An industry-leading defense engineering organization is seeking a highly experienced Chief Engineer to drive the development of next-generation defense technologies and advanced vehicle systems. This leadership role combines technical strategy, engineering execution, customer engagement, and team development to deliver innovative solutions that support military and national security missions.

This position is ideal for an experienced defense engineering leader with expertise in lethality, survivability, combat vehicle systems, weapon systems integration, and advanced military technologies.

What You'll Do

As Chief Engineer, you will serve as the technical authority and engineering leader for critical defense programs, guiding multidisciplinary teams from concept development through deployment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead technical execution of advanced defense and military vehicle programs.
  • Oversee engineering teams, providing technical leadership, mentoring, and professional development.
  • Drive proposal development, customer engagement, and strategic growth initiatives.
  • Establish technical roadmaps and system architectures aligned with customer requirements and emerging defense needs.
  • Ensure successful delivery of projects with respect to quality, schedule, cost, and customer satisfaction.
  • Review and approve engineering designs, technical specifications, and design changes.
  • Conduct technical trade studies and risk assessments to support key engineering decisions.
  • Collaborate with program management to forecast resources, staffing needs, and technical priorities.
  • Support business development efforts through customer presentations, technical demonstrations, and solution development.
  • Lead technical communications with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
  • Identify emerging technologies and market opportunities that create competitive advantages.
Desired Technical Expertise

Strong candidates will possess experience in several of the following areas:

  • Lethality and Survivability Systems
  • Combat Vehicle Engineering
  • Weapon Systems Integration
  • Fire Control Systems
  • Turret Systems and Ammunition Handling
  • Military Ground Vehicle Development
  • Defense AI and Autonomous Systems
  • Battlefield Systems and Virtual Environments
  • Vehicle Architecture and Integration
  • Systems Engineering
  • Functional Safety and Safety-Critical Software
  • Hybrid and Electrified Vehicle Systems
  • Test & Evaluation (T&E)
  • Verification & Validation (V&V)
  • Systems Safety Engineering
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 15+ years of progressive engineering experience within the defense industry.
  • Demonstrated experience leading complex defense development programs.
  • Strong understanding of defense acquisition processes, government contracts, and military customer requirements.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.
  • Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams and technical execution.
Preferred
  • Advanced degree (MS or higher).
  • Experience with advanced military vehicle platforms and weapon systems.
  • Hands-on experience with fielded military systems.
  • Knowledge of Lean Product Development methodologies.
  • Experience leading cross-functional engineering organizations.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
  • Executive-level technical leadership role with significant influence on future defense technologies.
  • Opportunity to shape next-generation military systems and capabilities.
  • High visibility with defense customers and senior leadership.
  • Strong compensation package with bonus potential.
  • Career growth path into broader technical and organizational leadership roles.

If you're a defense engineering leader passionate about developing innovative solutions that support the warfighter and national security missions, we encourage you to apply.