Ordnance and Initiation Systems Engineering Specialist

People First Recruitment; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing bonus

Relocation assistance

Annual bonus

Job summary

People First Recruitment is seeking an Ordnance and Initiation Systems Engineering Specialist in Metro Detroit, onsite. Base salary $120,000–$150,000 with annual bonus and signing bonus; relocation assistance available.

Lead the full life cycle for energetic components, from concept to qualification, and ensure compliance with safety standards. You will own requirements, design verification strategies, and collaborate with manufacturing to scale production while interpreting government

Qualifications

• Must have 10+ years developing and qualifying energetic components.
• Applied understanding of requirements verification and validation (V&V).
• Excellent written communication and documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Own the cradle-to-qualification development for energetic components and propellants.
• Define requirements, write specifications, and verify through qualification tests.
• Plan, execute, and evaluate development and qualification tests; produce reports and documentation.

Skills

V&V understanding

Written communication

Analytical mindset

Detail oriented

Education

BS in Chemistry

BS in Mechanical Engineering

BS in Aerospace Engineering

Job description

Ordnance and Initiation Systems Engineering SpecialistWhere: Metro Detroit, MI (Onsite)Pay: $120,000–$150,000 base + annual bonus + signing bonusRelocation: Assistance availableChallengeOwn 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 willDrive 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 takes10+ 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 hereFocus 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 & toolsDomain: energetic, Explosives, Ordnance, Propellant, Pyrotechnics, WarheadMachines & technologies: aerospaceComplianceU.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 informationOur 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.