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Contract Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

Oshkosh, WI Job Type: 12-Month Contract Pay Rate: $49 - $60/hour Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:00 PM, with some flexibility for 8:00 AM-5:00 PM or 9:00 AM-6:00 PM Industry: Defense | Heavy ...

New

Mechanical Engineering Manager

De Pere, WI

$100K - $138K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; Master's degree preferred. * 7 + ... Contract. Any resumes submitted from unapproved vendors will be considered unsolicited, and Durr ...

Posted today

Bassett Mechanical is a 3rd generation family-owned company that provides custom-built industrial ... Designs in the contract phase will be detailed. Design activities will include heating and cooling ...

Bassett Mechanical is a 3rd generation family-owned company that provides custom-built industrial ... Designs in the contract phase will be detailed. Design activities will include heating and cooling ...

Design Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Jor-Mac Company is a contract manufacturer of metal fabrications and assemblies. We provide On ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline. * Proven ...

Mechanical Assembler

Oshkosh, WI

$17.50 - $22/hr

A portfolio of highly engineered power transmission components and subsystems efficiently transmits ... In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement or similar contract and approval from HR to ...

Mechanical Assembler

Oshkosh, WI

$17.50 - $22/hr

A portfolio of highly engineered power transmission components and subsystems efficiently transmits ... In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement or similar contract and approval from HR to ...

Mechanical Assembler

Oshkosh, WI

$17.50 - $22/hr

A portfolio of highly engineered power transmission components and subsystems efficiently transmits ... In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement or similar contract and approval from HR to ...

Mechanical Assembler

Oshkosh, WI

$17.50 - $22/hr

A portfolio of highly engineered power transmission components and subsystems efficiently transmits ... In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement or similar contract and approval from HR to ...

Mechanical Assembler

Oshkosh, WI

$17.50 - $22/hr

A portfolio of highly engineered power transmission components and subsystems efficiently transmits ... In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement or similar contract and approval from HR to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Mechanical Engineer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$44.4K

$100.4K

$162.5K

How much do contract mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract mechanical engineer in Appleton, WI is $100,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $123,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract mechanical engineer do?

Contract mechanical engineers are independent contractors who work directly with their own clients on projects. You find these professionals in a broad range of industries, including robotics, medical devices, and manufacturing. As a contract mechanical engineer, you design a product or machine according to your client's specifications, analyze the blueprints to ensure they are accurate, test a model to identify any potential issues, and repair them as necessary. Your job duties typically involve the extensive usage of specialized computer programs, such as CAD for technical drawings. Depending on the project, you may collaborate with other engineers on different aspects of the plans to ensure they do not conflict with other parts of the project.

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

To thrive as a Contract Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant engineering degree, often complemented by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), finite element analysis tools, and project management systems is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and time management skills help you excel in diverse project environments and collaborate effectively with clients and teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering high-quality engineering solutions on time and within budget in a contract-based setting.

What is a contract mechanical engineer?

Contract Mechanical Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test mechanical devices and systems, but work on a contractual basis rather than as permanent employees. They may be hired for specific projects or periods by companies needing specialized expertise. Their responsibilities can include creating technical drawings, overseeing manufacturing processes, and ensuring products meet quality standards. Contract roles offer flexibility and variety in work, but may not provide the same benefits or job security as permanent positions.

What are some common challenges faced by contract mechanical engineers when working on short-term projects?

Contract Mechanical Engineers often need to quickly adapt to new team dynamics and project requirements, as short-term assignments can vary widely in scope, tools, and expectations. They may face challenges such as limited onboarding time, integrating with established teams, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential to succeed, as contract engineers must rapidly build rapport with colleagues and deliver results within tight deadlines. Additionally, proactively seeking feedback and clarifying project goals early can help navigate these challenges and ensure project success.

What is the difference between Contract Mechanical Engineer vs Contract Mechanical Designer?

AspectContract Mechanical EngineerContract Mechanical Designer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, possibly PE licenseBachelor's degree in Mechanical Design, CAD certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentEngineering firms, manufacturing, product developmentDesign studios, manufacturing, product development
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across engineering and manufacturing sectorsCommon in design and product development sectors
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for engineering roles involving analysis and designCompared for roles focused on detailed design and CAD work

Contract Mechanical Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and testing mechanical systems, requiring engineering credentials. Contract Mechanical Designers primarily work on creating detailed CAD models and drawings, often with design certifications. Both roles are vital in manufacturing and product development, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI?

For Contract Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Contract Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Contract Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Mechanical Engineer job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, and 54% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $100,381 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer I

CrossFire Group

Oshkosh, WI

$41.55/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

MECHANICAL ENGINEER I

Location: Oshkosh, WI
Job Type: 12-Month Contract
Pay Rate: $49 - $60/hour
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:00 PM, with some flexibility for 8:00 AM-5:00 PM or 9:00 AM-6:00 PM
Industry: Defense | Heavy Vehicle Engineering

HELP DESIGN THE NEXT GENERATION OF HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLES
Our Client is seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to support the design, development, analysis, and integration of components and systems for advanced heavy-duty vehicle applications.

This opportunity is well suited for a mechanical engineer with strong CAD skills and an interest in vehicle systems, controls, robotics, autonomy, or electric vehicle technology. You'll work alongside experienced engineers while gaining hands-on exposure to complex vehicle development programs.

The Mechanical Engineer I will support engineering design, analysis, drawings, bills of material, system routing, production issues, and the integration of new and redesigned components into vehicle platforms.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Design and develop functional, reliable, and cost-effective heavy-duty vehicle components.
  • Create and modify engineering designs using CATIA or similar high-level CAD software.
  • Prepare layouts, drawings, specifications, and bills of material.
  • Perform engineering calculations and analysis to support component and system designs.
  • Support the selection of parts, components, and materials based on engineering requirements.
  • Evaluate designs for performance, safety, reliability, and manufacturability.
  • Assist senior engineers with design plans, calculations, technical documentation, and reporting.
  • Support system and component routing within vehicle platforms.
  • Review and interpret FEA analysis and results.
  • Participate in DFMEA activities to identify and address potential design risks.
  • Provide technical assistance to manufacturing and production teams.
  • Investigate and resolve mechanical and system-level engineering issues.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams, suppliers, customers, and other technical disciplines.
  • Prepare technical proposals, reports, quotations, and presentations.
  • Apply analytical and mathematical methods to evaluate system performance and optimize designs.
  • Communicate engineering issues, findings, and project status to appropriate stakeholders.
  • Support vehicle development projects from design through implementation.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field from an accredited institution.
  • Internship experience or at least six months of related engineering experience.
  • Experience with CATIA or a similar advanced CAD platform.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to develop and interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation.
  • Understanding of engineering design principles and manufacturing processes.
  • Ability to perform basic engineering calculations and analysis.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with cross-functional engineering and manufacturing teams.
STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates will stand out with experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Controls and robotics
  • Systems engineering
  • System routing
  • FEA analysis review and interpretation
  • DFMEA
  • Autonomous vehicle technology
  • Electric vehicle systems
  • Automotive engineering
  • Heavy-duty trucks or military vehicles
  • Vehicle components and mechanical systems
  • CATIA or other high-level CAD systems
  • Production and manufacturing support
POSITION DETAILS
This is a 12-month, full-time contract opportunity located onsite in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
Pay Rate: $49 - $60/hour
Hours: 40 hours per week
Primary Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM-4:00 PM
Schedule Flexibility: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM or 9:00 AM-6:00 PM may also be considered
Travel: None anticipated
This position supports programs subject to ITAR requirements. Candidates must be U.S. citizens.

#IND1
#ZR

Company Description

Using the best business practices obtained from many years of experience in Business, Law, and Recruiting and Staffing, the Founders at CrossFire Group (“CrossFire”) started in downtown Royal Oak, MI more than a decade ago. With backgrounds in Information Technology (IT) and the Legal Industry, CrossFire began placing by IT and Legal Professionals in contract and direct-hire positions throughout the Midwest.

Since our founding, CrossFire has grown into a full-service Human Capital Solutions Organization. We are proud of now providing full services beyond recruiting and staffing. Our portfolio of services includes HR supply chain management, human resources consulting, and many customized Human Resource related services.