ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Weapons Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Zobility

Vehicle Chief Engineer

New Hudson, MI · On-site

$145K - $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 ...

Zobility

Chief Engineer III

New Hudson, MI · 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 ...

asrcfh

Mechanical Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI

... 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 ...

asrcfh

Mechanical Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI

... 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 ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Defense Chief Engineer

Hudson, MI · On-site

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

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWeapons Engineer JobsWeapons Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Weapons Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$62.2K

$79.2K

$94K

How much do weapons engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for weapons engineer in Michigan is $79,184.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,300.00 and $87,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Weapons engineering is a field that values skills, experience, and continuous learning over age. Many engineers start or transition into the profession later in life, and relevant technical skills, certifications, and a strong work ethic are often more important than age. Age should not be a barrier to pursuing a career in engineering if you meet the necessary qualifications and stay current with industry developments.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior weapons engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and security clearances, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, often including bonuses and profit sharing. High-level roles in defense contractors or aerospace companies tend to offer these compensation levels for engineers with advanced expertise in systems design, missile technology, or cybersecurity within the defense industry.

What are common challenges Weapons Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary defense projects?

Weapons Engineers often collaborate with specialists in electronics, materials science, software, and systems engineering. One common challenge is integrating complex subsystems to ensure reliability and safety, while meeting strict military specifications. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as projects usually involve cross-functional teams and tight deadlines. Staying updated with evolving technologies and regulations is also crucial for success in this field.

What Does a Weapons Engineer Do?

As a weapons engineer, you design test, analyze, update, and improve military weapons systems, such as missile defense systems, fighter jets, body armor, and conventional weapons. Your duties depend on the type of industry in which you work. Many weapons systems are now very complex, requiring numerous systems and parts. For example, a fighter jet involves input from aerospace engineers or guidance systems design experts and optical engineers. However, many of your responsibilities are the same across industries. You work with teams of engineers in consultation with military experts to identify weaknesses in weapons and prepare prototypes before beginning full production.

What are weapons engineers and what do they do?

Weapons engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain military weapons and defense systems. Their work involves applying principles of mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering to create advanced weaponry such as missiles, firearms, and defense technologies. Weapons engineers often collaborate with government agencies and defense contractors to ensure that their designs meet safety, reliability, and regulatory standards. They may also be involved in research and development to innovate new technologies for national security. This career requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and adherence to strict ethical and legal guidelines.

What does a weapon engineer do?

A weapon 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 to ensure functionality and safety of weapon systems.

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

To thrive as a Weapons Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or aerospace engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and defense industry standards or certifications is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help you excel in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, innovative, and compliant development of advanced weapon systems in a highly regulated field.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior weapons engineers, aerospace engineers, and systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in defense, aerospace, or high-tech industries. These roles often require advanced degrees, security clearances, and leadership responsibilities.

What is the difference between Weapons Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectWeapons EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, specialized training in weapon systems, security clearancesBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly a Professional Engineer (PE) license
Work EnvironmentDefense labs, military facilities, research centersManufacturing plants, design firms, industrial settings
Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, military technologyAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy

Weapons Engineers focus on designing, developing, and testing weapon systems within defense and military sectors, often requiring security clearances. Mechanical Engineers work across various industries, designing and analyzing mechanical systems. While both roles involve engineering principles, Weapons Engineers specialize in weaponry and defense applications, whereas Mechanical Engineers have broader applications in general machinery and product design.

More about Weapons Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Weapons Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Weapons Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Weapons Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Weapons Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Weapons Engineer jobs in MI? For Weapons Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Weapons Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weapons Engineer job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 64% In-person, 29% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,184 per year, or $38.1 per hour.
Chief Engineer - Defense Systems & Advanced Vehicle Technologies

Chief Engineer - Defense Systems & Advanced Vehicle Technologies

GLOBAL Recruitment Solutions LLC

Milford, MI • Hybrid

$145K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Location: New Hudson, Michigan
Compensation: $145,000 – $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.