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Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$94 - $96/hr

Minneapolis, Minnesota Type: 12 month Contract Compensation: $94.00 - $96.00 hourly Contractor Work Model: Onsite System One is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer on a 12 month contract located ...

Overview MECHANICAL ENGINEER (USCG): Bowhead is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to fill the role of ... Travel (potential for overnight) to meet with CEU Juneau staff and review contract performance is ...

Contract to Hire Length: Six months plus Client located in Gaithersburg, Maryland is seeking a Mechanical Engineer for a contract to hire position. Responsibilities include the design and ...

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$56K - $84K/yr

You will serve as a Mechanical Engineer in the Military Sealift Command (MSC), Engineering ... Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days ...

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Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do contract retired mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract retired mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by contract retired mechanical engineers when joining new projects?

Contract retired mechanical engineers often face the challenge of quickly adapting to different organizational cultures and processes, as each project may use unique tools or methodologies. Additionally, they may need to stay current with new technology or regulations that have evolved since their last full-time role. Collaborating with diverse teams, including younger engineers and cross-functional departments, is also a key aspect, requiring strong communication and flexibility. However, their extensive experience is highly valued for mentoring and solving complex engineering problems.

What is a contract retired mechanical engineer?

A contract retired mechanical engineer is a professional who, after retiring from a full-time engineering career, takes on temporary or project-based work in the mechanical engineering field. These engineers use their extensive experience to consult, mentor, or contribute to specific projects for companies on a contractual basis. This role allows them to stay active in the industry, share their expertise, and work with flexible schedules without the commitments of permanent employment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract retired mechanical engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, extensive industry experience, and a relevant engineering degree, often supported by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with CAD software, engineering analysis tools, and project management systems is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability help you consult effectively and mentor less experienced engineers. These skills ensure you can deliver high-value expertise, solve technical challenges, and contribute efficiently on a project basis.

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

AspectContract Retired Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
CredentialsOften holds PE license, extensive experienceTypically holds a degree in mechanical engineering, may have some certifications
Work EnvironmentConsulting, project-based, flexibleDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageFreelance or consulting roles in various industriesDesign departments in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace

The main difference is that Contract Retired Mechanical Engineers bring extensive experience and often hold professional licenses, working on consulting or project basis, while Mechanical Designers focus on creating detailed designs, typically with formal education and working within design teams. Both roles are essential in engineering projects but differ in scope and experience level.

More about Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Retired Mechanical Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Retired Mechanical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Contract Retired Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

The Air Force Civilian Service

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$76K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Air Force Civilian Service rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 98 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Come be a part of something big! Smart Minds, Cool Jobs and Awesome Rewards! Fueled by innovation, talent and ambition, the Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) is seeking civilian professionals prepared to deploy war-winning capabilities for the United States Air Force.
The Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) is looking for a Full-Time Mechanical Engineer NH-0830-03 to work at the 50th Civil Engineer Squadron at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado Springs, CO.
The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a professional mechanical engineer, performing design, project programming and construction management/monitoring duties in support of a military installation.
This position can close at any time. Apply Now!
Salary Range: $76,463 - $118,204. Does not include locality pay
Recruitment & Relocation incentives may be available.
Value of Position (VOP): If your current basic salary is within the band, but above the stated VOP, your basic salary will not be reduced if you are selected for the position.
AcqDemo positions are exempt from the 180 day restriction in 5 USC 3326, Appointments of retired members of the armed forces to positions in the Department of Defense, when filled using AcqDemo-specific direct hire authorities. This clarification will materially accelerate hiring actions involving recently retired active-duty service members.
Recruitment and Relocation Incentive may be offered.
Position not eligible for telework or remote work.
Up to 25% Travel requirements.
AFCS Benefits:
Paid Time Off:
11 Federal Holidays each year
13 sick leave days earned per year (accumulative)
Paid Vacation Time:
13-26 days per year based on length of employment
Health Insurance:
No waiting period to qualify for you and your family
Retirement:
Immediate coverage by the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
Basic Benefits Plan
Social Security
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), similar to a 401(k) (Automatically receive 1% agency contributions and up to 5% matching)
Conditions of Employment:
U.S. Citizenship Required
Obtain & maintain a Secret security clearance
This position is designated as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Drug Testing Program. Illegal drug use by employees in sensitive positions presents a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety. It is required that you (a) refrain from the use of illegal drugs and (b) if requested, submit to urinalysis testing.
May be required to work overtime on an unscheduled or emergency basis.
The employee must meet the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) requirements applicable to the duties of the position. The selected will have up to 24 months to meet the applicable mandatory experience, education, and training requirements.
Required to handle and safeguard sensitive and/or classified information in accordance with regulations to reduce potential compromise.
May be required to travel by military or commercial aircraft in the performance of TDY assignments.
Education requirements:
Degree accredited by ABET in Mechanical Engineering -- OPM Mechanical Engineering Series 0830
Duties:
Performs planning and design work for substantial multi-phase new construction, renovations, and improvement projects for real property facilities, including utility systems, utilizing a professional knowledge of mechanical engineering.
Manages projects for new construction, renovations, and improvements to real property facilities and maintains surveillance over construction contractors utilizing a professional knowledge of mechanical engineering and knowledge of other engineering disciplines to ensure overall compliance with contracted specifications, schedules, etc.
Plans, programs, budgets, and executes required projects in support of assigned programs. Performs work in facilities operations and maintenance (O&M) functions. Provides consulting services and project coordination.
Collects data and evaluates factors which affect the application of concepts, principles, theories, and methods required to observe, examine, measure, analyze, map, and describe physical and technical features and phenomena.
Performs work in facilities operations and maintenance (O&M) functions. Supports or serves as Activity Management Plan (AMP) Manager responsible for developing short- and long-range facilities and infrastructure priorities and requirements. Facility and infrastructure requirements prioritized based on risk to mission, life cycle replacement, and return on investment taking into account both manpower and financial resources required to sustain the asset.
Complies with health, safety, and environmental rules and procedures and performs work in a manner that enhances the safety of the work environment.
Plans, programs, budgets, and executes required projects in support of assigned programs. Uses cost estimating tools to produce government estimates, program projects, and compete for funding in Air Force corporate processes. Assesses validity, feasibility, and impacts (economic, environmental, etc.) of projects and base development actions, and integrates with overall installation plans.
Click the apply button to complete an application and upload resume (PDF or Word Doc) and/or additional documents (Transcripts, certifications, Vet Docs (DD214), SF-50).
To receive additional information about current and future job openings with AFCS via email notification, please subscribe at www.AFciviliancareers.com and sign up to "Get Career Updates."
AFCS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. U.S. citizenship required. Must be of legal working age.

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