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Contract Engineering Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Thielsch Engineering

Contract Recruiter

Cranston, RI · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Our multi-disciplined engineering and technical staff specialize in failure analysis, engineering design, process optimization, and condition assessment. Our work demonstrates how creative ...

RISE GROUP INC

Contract Recruiter

Cranston, RI · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Our multi-disciplined engineering and technical staff specialize in failure analysis, engineering design, process optimization, and condition assessment. Our work demonstrates how creative ...

Leidos

Engineering Technician III

Newport, RI · On-site

$26.03/hr

Leidos Defense has an opening for an Engineering Technician III supporting our NATSC contract in Newport Rhode Island. The candidate, under the direction of the Engineering Manager and Production ...

Leidos

Engineering Technician III

Newport, RI

$26.03/hr

Leidos Defense has an opening for an Engineering Technician III supporting our NATSC contract in Newport Rhode Island. The candidate, under the direction of the Engineering Manager and Production ...

Leidos

Engineering Technician III

Newport, RI · On-site

$26.03/hr

Description Leidos Defense has an opening for an Engineering Technician III supporting our NATSC contract in Newport Rhode Island. The candidate, under the direction of the Engineering Manager and ...

Varsity Tutors

Structural Engineering Tutor

Providence, RI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

What We Look For In a Structural Engineering Tutor * Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

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All JobsContract Engineering JobsContract Engineering Jobs in Rhode Island

Contract Engineering information

See Rhode Island salary details

$29

$47

$96

How much do contract engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract engineering in Rhode Island is $47.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.24 and $49.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is contract engineering?

Contract engineering refers to the practice of hiring engineers on a temporary or project-specific basis, rather than as permanent employees. Contract engineers work for a set period or until a particular project is completed, often through staffing agencies or as independent contractors. This arrangement allows companies to access specialized skills and expertise as needed while providing engineers with flexibility and exposure to diverse projects. Contract engineers typically handle tasks such as design, development, testing, and project management across various industries.

How does a contract engineer typically balance multiple projects and ensure timely delivery of each contract?

Contract Engineers often manage several projects simultaneously, requiring strong organizational and time-management skills. They regularly coordinate with clients, suppliers, and internal teams to track progress, address issues early, and adjust timelines as needed. Utilizing project management tools and maintaining clear documentation helps them prioritize tasks and deliverables effectively. Open communication and proactive problem-solving are key strategies to meet contract milestones and client expectations.

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

To thrive as a Contract Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, contract management, and project coordination, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience in contract administration. Familiarity with contract management software, project management tools (such as MS Project or Primavera), and industry regulations is essential. Strong negotiation, communication, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for effectively managing client and vendor relationships. These skills ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in compliance with contractual and technical requirements.

Do contract engineers make more money?

Contract engineers often earn higher hourly rates than full-time employees due to the temporary nature of their work and the need for specialized skills. However, they may have less job security and benefits, and total annual income can vary based on project availability and experience. Factors such as industry, location, and certifications also influence earning potential for contract engineers.

What does a contract engineer do?

A contract engineer is responsible for managing engineering projects on a temporary basis, often focusing on specific tasks such as design, testing, or implementation. They typically work with project teams, adhere to deadlines, and may require knowledge of engineering software and industry standards. Their role involves ensuring project requirements are met efficiently within the contract terms.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Engineering jobs in Rhode Island?

For Contract Engineering jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Engineering jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Engineering jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Contract Engineering jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Contract Engineering job openings:

Contract Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Engineering job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,675 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Manager - Defense Contracts & Technical Engineering

Guill Tool & Engineering

West Warwick, RI

$85K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Defense Contracts & Technical Engineering Manager
Position Type: Full-time.
Job Description:
We are seeking a dynamic, results-driven individual to lead a multifunctional team responsible for interpreting, executing, and managing government and commercial defense contracts from initial quote through final delivery. This high-impact role requires knowledge of both FAR, DFARS, and NAVSEA procurement standards in addition to a strong background in manufacturing processes. This position entails direct involvement in contract quoting, proposal development, and customer relationship management, as well as overseeing the deployment of robust process documentation to support lean, efficient production processes in a high-mix, low-volume machining environment.
The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in both government contracting and technical manufacturing, combined with solid business acumen, exceptional process management skills, and a customer-oriented mindset. This role will be instrumental in driving operational excellence while contributing to revenue generation and contract growth.
Key Responsibilities:
Sales & Contract Management:
  • Contract Award Support: Serve as a key participant in contract negotiations and award discussions with customers, ensuring accurate representation of capabilities and requirements.
  • Quoting & Proposal Development: Lead or support the preparation of technical and cost proposals, including manufacturing process estimates, labor routing, and pricing strategies. Identify contractual risks early in the bidding process to ensure all quality, safety, and special material (e.g., Level I/SUBSAFE) requirements are integrated into the project plan.
  • Customer Relationship Management: Act as a primary point of contact (POC) for customers regarding contract requirements, clarifications, and performance updates.
  • Revenue Forecasting: Collaborate with sales and finance to provide accurate forecasts and track contract pipeline, awards, and execution status.

Manufacturing Process Compliance & Documentation:
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all documentation and processes comply with relevant government regulations (FAR/ DFARS/ ITAR/NAVSEA), contractual requirements, and AS9100 quality standards.
  • Contract Modifications: Manage and implement changes resulting from contract modifications, ensuring timely updates to documentation and internal systems/processes.
  • Process Standardization: Develop, implement, and maintain departmental standard operating procedures (SOPs) that ensure consistent review and execution of defense contracts. Support procurement and process engineering activities by interpreting contractual requirements and accurately and efficiently communicating this information to all respective process groups.

Leadership and Operational Oversight:
  • Cross-Functional Leadership: Foster Guill Tool's company values: technical rigor, exceptional product quality, and continuous improvement- by facilitating collaboration between multiple process groups, including production.
  • Workflow Optimization: Support cost reduction initiatives and identify opportunities to improve throughput, efficiency, and product quality without jeopardizing the integrity of contractual deliverables and internal process compliance.
  • Quality Support : Maintain accurate documentation and records, and support internal, 3rd party/ regulatory audits, and AS9100 quality assurance initiatives.

Qualifications:
Education:
  • A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Business Operations, or a related field. An MBA or advanced business training is a plus.

Experience:
  • Minimum 5-7 years in a manufacturing and government contracting environment.
  • At least 2 years in a leadership role managing technical and/or sales functions.
  • Proven experience in quoting, proposal preparation, and contract lifecycle management

Desired Skills:
  • Strong understanding of technical drawings, tight-tolerance machining (±.0001), and manufacturing process routing.
  • In-depth knowledge of government contract regulations (FAR/DFARS/ITAR/ NAVSEA) and the federal acquisition process
  • Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (Epicor experience a plus), quoting software, CRM platforms, and navigating customer & government agency portals.
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and time and project management abilities.

ITAR Security Requirement:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and capable of obtaining a Secret Security Clearance.

About Guill Tool & Engineering:
Established in 1962, we are a Level I/SUBSAFE defense contractor committed to providing precision machined components and assemblies at an economical cost to support the U.S. Navy Submarine Industrial Base and related defense industries We are ITAR registered, AS9100 certified, and NIST SP800-171 compliant.
Guill Tool & Engineering is also recognized as a technology leader in the design and manufacture of plastic extrusion tooling worldwide. We offer custom-designed extrusion heads in addition to replacement tip & die tooling for numerous applications, including medical, wire and cable, and industrial.
We maintain a technically capable workforce committed to the continued success of our customers by providing high-quality extrusion tooling and defense components.

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