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Contract Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

Bassett Mechanical

HVAC Project Engineer

Kaukauna, WI · On-site

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

HVAC Project Engineer

Kaukauna, WI · On-site

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 ...

The Jor-mac Company Inc

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 ...

Regal Rexnord

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 ...

New

Regal Rexnord

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 ...

New

ARMORWORKS ENTERPRISES INC

WELD ENGINEER (GB)

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$34.75 - $48/hr

Review welding requirements during quotation and contract review. * Support Engineering and ... Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline. * Equivalent combination of education and ...

M2S Group

Reliability Engineer

Appleton, WI · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Maintain a working knowledge of the labor agreement to support contract commitments and effective ... Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related ...

Appvion, LLC

Reliability Engineer

Appleton, WI

$100K - $125K/yr

Maintain a working knowledge of the labor agreement to support contract commitments and effective ... Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related ...

Appvion, Inc.

Reliability Engineer

Appleton, WI · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Maintain a working knowledge of the labor agreement to support contract commitments and effective ... Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related ...

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All JobsContract Mechanical Engineer JobsContract Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

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 7, 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.

More about Contract Mechanical Engineer jobs
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 job categories do people searching Contract Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI 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:
Contract Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Mechanical Engineer job openings in Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,908 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Intern - Mechanical Engineer (Spring 2027)

Plexus Corp.

Neenah, WI • On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

About us: At Plexus, our vision is to help create the products that build a better world. Driven by a passion for excellence, we partner with leading Aerospace/Defense, Healthcare/Life Sciences and Industrial companies to design, manufacture and service some of the world's most transformative products, including advanced surgical systems, diagnostic instruments, healthcare imaging equipment, mission critical aerospace systems, and electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions. Visit Plexus.com to learn more about our unwavering commitment to our vision.
When we invest in our people, we invest in building a better world.
With a vision rooted in the wellbeing and inclusive engagement of our team members, our customers, their end users and our communities, people are the heart of what we do and who we are. It is our values that unite us and guide us in everything that we do, including how we operate, behave and interact to foster a workplace where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.
Our values include: Growing our People, Building Belonging, Innovating Responsibly, Delivering Excellence and Creating Customer Success.
As a team member, you will engage in impactful work through global collaboration and the use of emerging technologies, join an inclusive culture where every team member is valued and working toward a greater purpose, and be empowered to reach your full potential through various development programs designed to accelerate your growth.
Plexus offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support team members' wellbeing, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, retirement savings, and opportunities for professional development. We also prioritize work-life balance and offer a variety of perks to enhance the team member experience. For more information, visit our US benefits website at usbenefits.plexus.com. Our commitment to pay range transparency fosters an equitable workplace, where everyone can feel valued. This is an internship position (Non-Exempt Salary); the hourly range is stated below. The rate offered within this range will be based upon the geographic location, work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level. Hourly Rate:
$23 - $27/hr.
OVERVIEW
Perform challenging and diverse product development efforts, providing mechanical engineering design services and support throughout all stages of the product development life cycle.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop mechanical components and system concepts that satisfy the customer's requirements.
  • Create and modify 3D models and 2D drawings under the guidance of senior engineers, ensuring accuracy and adherence to design standards.
  • Assisting in the building and assembly of prototypes, including tasks like cutting, drilling, using a mill or lathe, and assembling components, while following safety procedures.
  • Performing simple tests on materials or prototypes, recording data accurately, and assisting in the organization and presentation of test results.
  • Complete preliminary analysis on tolerance stack ups, thermal or structural under the guidance of senior engineers, ensuring accuracy and adherence to design specifications.
  • Attending meetings, contributing ideas, and taking notes, while learning from experienced engineers and gaining exposure to the product development process.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Student working toward a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering for the entire duration of internship.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum Sophomore or Junior level status
  • GPA: 3.0 or higher is preferred
  • Experience with Creo Parametric and/or SolidWorks is desired

This document does not represent a contract of employment and is not intended to capture every possible assignment the incumbent could be asked to perform.
We are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities or special requirements. If you need an application accommodation, please contact us by email at GHQ.TA@plexus.com. Please include your contact information and clearly describe how we can help you. This email is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Some offers of employment are contingent upon successfully passing a drug screen and/or background check.

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