How to Become a Defense Engineer
Defense engineers apply their knowledge of engineering specialties such as electrical, mechanical or systems engineering to designing defense equipment and maintaining existing equipment. Wayne State University notes on its website that the work performed by defense engineers is important because it protects members of the armed forces during training and deployment. Post-secondary study is necessary if you want to find employment as a defense engineer.
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Instructions
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Prepare for undergraduate study while in high school. The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that high school students who want to major in engineering need a solid preparation in math and science. Successful applicants to engineering programs typically complete courses in algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus, as well as chemistry, physics and biology. Prospective engineering majors should also take courses in English and the humanities.
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Earn a bachelor's degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that while a bachelor's degree in engineering can usually be finished in four years, certain students need an additional semester or year to complete their studies. The first half of an undergraduate engineering program includes introductory courses in science, math and engineering. During the second half of the program, students focus on their specialty of choice. As engineering majors, students take laboratory courses, where they get hands-on practice implementing the principles learned in class.
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Enroll in a graduate-level program. Lawrence Technological University's website states that engineers who wish to work in the defense industry need specialized training to be competitive in the job market. Graduate-level training, in the form of a certificate or master's degree, teaches engineers skills specific to defense engineering. In a certificate program, engineers take courses in federal procurement, defense engineering systems and defense project management. In a graduate degree program, such as the one offered at Wayne State University, students take core courses in project development and embedded systems, along with electives in areas such as battle management systems and military vehicle dynamics.
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Obtain a PE license. Engineers who "directly serve the public" must get a PE, or professional engineer, license, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports. This credential is awarded to engineers who graduate from a program approved by ABET and pass two exams.
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Join an engineering association. You may apply for membership in the society for your engineering specialty --- for example, the American Society of Civil Engineers if you're a civil engineer. These societies can be a valuable source of employment information, via online job boards and networking with other members.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're seeking federal employment as a defense engineer, the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests visiting USAJOBS, the government's official employment information system.
