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Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

YOUR MISSION We are seeking highly motivated Mechanical Test Engineers to support the design, planning, and execution of test campaigns for spacecraft mechanical systems and hardware. You will work ...

Mechanical Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

YOUR MISSION We are seeking highly motivated Mechanical Test Engineers to support the design, planning, and execution of test campaigns for spacecraft mechanical systems and hardware. You will work ...

Mechanical Test Engineer

Horicon, WI · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Mechanical Test Engineer The Mechanical Test Engineer is responsible for planning and executing durability and performance testing of prototype components and complete machines throughout key stages ...

The Mechanical Test Engineering role is responsible for owning the testing procedures used to prove new designs are fit to fly. You will serve as the extreme owner for qualification tests that are ...

We are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer with deep expertise in test development for Thermal Interface Materials (TIMs) and more general Heat Transfer Systems . In this role, you will lead ...

We are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer with deep expertise in test development for Thermal Interface Materials (TIMs) and more general Heat Transfer Systems . In this role, you will lead ...

Mechanical Test Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

The Mechanical Test Engineering role is responsible for owning the testing procedures used to prove new designs are fit to fly. You will serve as the extreme owner for qualification tests that are ...

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Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer information

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$55.5K

$100.6K

$148.5K

How much do contractual mechanical test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual mechanical test engineer in the United States is $100,635.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Contractual Mechanical Test Engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Contractual Mechanical Test Engineers often face challenges such as quickly adapting to new teams, understanding unique testing protocols, and managing tight project timelines. Since contracts may be short-term, it’s crucial to rapidly familiarize yourself with company-specific equipment and standards. Building strong communication with permanent staff and staying organized can help you integrate smoothly and meet deadlines. Additionally, proactively seeking clarification and documenting your work ensures that your contributions are clear and valuable, even after your contract ends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, experience with testing protocols, and at least a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with testing equipment, data acquisition systems, CAD software, and relevant certifications like ASME or ISO standards is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret results and collaborate with project teams. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate testing, compliance with technical standards, and successful delivery of project objectives within tight contractual timelines.

What is the difference between Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectContractual Mechanical Test EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, testing certificationsEngineering degree, design certifications
Work EnvironmentTesting labs, field testingDesign offices, CAD environments
Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotiveProduct development, machinery, automotive
Primary FocusTesting and validation of mechanical componentsDesign and development of mechanical systems

The Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer primarily focuses on testing, validation, and quality assurance of mechanical parts, often working in testing labs or on-site. In contrast, a Mechanical Design Engineer concentrates on designing and developing mechanical systems using CAD tools. Both roles require engineering credentials but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are Contractual Mechanical Test Engineers?

Contractual Mechanical Test Engineers are professionals hired on a contract basis to design, conduct, and analyze tests on mechanical systems and components. Their primary role is to ensure that products meet specific performance, safety, and quality standards. They often work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy, collaborating with design and production teams. Unlike permanent employees, contractual engineers typically work on specific projects or for set time periods, providing specialized expertise as needed.
What cities are hiring for Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Test Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Mechanical Test Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contractual Mechanical Test Engineer jobs include:
Mechanical Test Engineer

Mechanical Test Engineer

True Anomaly

Long Beach, CA

$100K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

YOUR MISSION 

We are seeking highly motivated Mechanical Test Engineers to support the design, planning, and execution of test campaigns for spacecraft mechanical systems and hardware. You will work closely with mechanical design engineers, systems engineers, and production teams to ensure mechanical hardware meets performance, environmental, and mission-critical requirements. In this role, you will develop test plans, execute mechanical system tests, design and build test fixtures and ground support equipment, collect and analyze data, disposition anomalies, and verify that hardware meets all specifications. The position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge spacecraft mechanical technologies in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Define and lead test strategies for mechanical system programs, including requirements verification, procedure development, and execution oversight. 
  • Author and review mechanical test documentation including plans, procedures, readiness reports, and compliance matrices. 
  • Analyze complex mechanical system test data, resolve anomalies, and lead root cause investigations and corrective actions. 
  • Oversee mechanical test campaigns including acceptance testing, functional/performance testing, qualification testing, and integration testing, ensuring full traceability to system requirements. 
  • Design, build, commission, and operate mechanical test fixtures and ground support equipment in support of testing operations. 
  • Interface with program leadership, customers, and regulatory bodies during design reviews and formal mechanical test events. 
  • Ensure compliance with industry and military standards for mechanical test planning and reporting. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace engineering, or related technical discipline. 
  • Years of relevant experience in mechanical systems test engineering for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability systems in line with engineering level. 
  • Knowledge of mechanical system test methodologies including acceptance, functional, and performance testing. 
  • Experience performing mechanical system test campaigns and coordinating multidisciplinary teams. 
  • Strong background in data analysis, systems engineering, and failure analysis for mechanical hardware. 
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and technical documentation skills. 
  • U.S. Citizenship required due to government contracts.  

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE 

  • Master's or higher degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering. 
  • Expertise with data acquisition, test automation, and scripting (LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB) for mechanical test environments. 
  • Hands-on experience with mechanical components including structures, mechanisms, actuators, deployables, and mechanical assemblies. 
  • Familiarity with CAD tools, finite element analysis, and mechanical design principles. 
  • Experience with test standards such as MIL-STD-810, NASA-STD-5018, or other aerospace mechanical test specifications. 
  • Experience working in classified or secure test environments. 
  • Active Secret or Top Secret clearance. 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS 

Base Salary: 

  • Test Engineer 1: $85,000-$105,000
  • Test Engineer 2:  $100,000-$120,000
  • Test Engineer 3: $125,000-$155,000
  • Senior Test Engineer: $140,000-$175,000

Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave 

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Work Location- this a fully onsite position based out of our Long Beach, CA office.
  • Work environment-the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
  • Physical demands-the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite