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Contract Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Mesa, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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Contract Mechanical Engineer information

See Mesa, AZ salary details

$45.1K

$102.1K

$165.2K

How much do contract mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract mechanical engineer in Mesa, AZ is $102,065.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,900.00 and $125,500.00 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 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 are Contract Mechanical Engineers?

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 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 Mesa, AZ? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Mesa, AZ are:
What cities near Mesa, AZ are hiring for Contract Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Mesa, AZ with the most Contract Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Mechanical Engineer job openings in Mesa, AZ as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,065 per year, or $49.1 per hour.
Lead Mechanical Engineer (Onsite)

Lead Mechanical Engineer (Onsite)

Kforce Technology Staffing

Chandler, AZ

$112.80K - $136.30K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce's clientm, a rapidly growing engineering technology company in Chandler, AZ, is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer/Chief Engineer to lead advanced product development initiatives. This is a 100% onsite role and a direct partnership with the hiring manager.
Position Overview:
The Chief Engineer will lead the design and development of advanced electromechanical systems supporting internally and externally funded R&D programs. This role owns the full product lifecycle, from concept through prototype, testing, and transition to production, with applications across UAVs, ground vehicles, aircraft, and infrastructure security systems. This individual will operate with a high degree of autonomy, provide technical leadership, and mentor a small team of engineers while driving engineering excellence and program success.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the design and development of new products and technologies using SolidWorks
* Own programs from concept through production, including architecture, execution, and delivery
* Oversee prototype builds, qualification testing, and product transition to manufacturing
* Develop and review technical documentation (design reviews, trade studies, test plans/reports, requirements tracking, CDRLs/SDRLs)
* Maintain and improve legacy products, processes, and standard operating procedures
* Support bids, proposals, and business development initiatives
* Establish performance metrics and engineering best practices
* Lead and mentor 2-3 engineers, including task delegation and technical guidance
REQUIREMENTS:
* BS in Mechanical Engineering (or related discipline)
* 10+ years of product development experience, including 5+ years of experience with electromechanical systems
* Strong proficiency with SolidWorks and project/program leadership
* Deep understanding of ASME Y14.100 and ASME Y14.5 (GD&T) standards
* Experience in DoD or defense-related product development (UAVs, ground, marine, or aircraft platforms)
* Demonstrated ability to lead projects, drive execution, and manage full product lifecycle
* Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills
Preferred Qualifications:
* MS in Mechanical Engineering (or related field)
* Experience with composites, electronics integration
* Background in automotive or other regulated manufacturing environments
The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.
We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.
Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.
This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.
Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
By clicking ?Apply Today? you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages or emails from Kforce and its affiliates, and service providers. Note that if you choose to communicate with Kforce via text messaging the frequency may vary, and message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You will always have the right to cease communicating via text by using key words such as STOP.