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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sigma Defense

1641 - Mechanical Engineer

Belcamp, MD · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Sigma Defense is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer to work in support of the Army for the ... Defense contracting market of major weapon systems product development and acquisitions is ...

Sigma Defense

1641 - Mechanical Engineer

Belcamp, MD · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Sigma Defense is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer to work in support of the Army for the ... Defense contracting market of major weapon systems product development and acquisitions is ...

Sigma Defense

1641 - Mechanical Engineer

Belcamp, MD

$97K - $117K/yr

Sigma Defense is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer to work in support of the Army for the ... Defense contracting market of major weapon systems product development and acquisitions is ...

Sentradel

Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$105K - $170K/yr

Job Overview We are seeking a mechanical engineer to join the team developing Sentradel's next ... a US defense contractor and this role involves access to export-controlled technical data.

Lunar Resources

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

The Mission We are looking for a Mechanical Engineer who is hungry, obsessed with building, and ... You aren't looking for a stable 9-5 at a legacy defense contractor. You want to build something ...

Lunar Resources

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

The Mission We are looking for a Mechanical Engineer who is hungry, obsessed with building, and ... You aren't looking for a stable 9-5 at a legacy defense contractor. You want to build something ...

NDI Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Lakehurst, NJ · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Department of Defense Security Clearance. * Must possess a Bachelor of Science in Engineering ... S. Small Business Administration Region II, Prime Contractor of the Year Award. NDI's corporate ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs

Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do defense contractor mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor 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 mechanical engineers working as defense contractors?

Mechanical engineers in defense contracting often face the challenge of adhering to strict regulatory standards and security protocols, which can add complexity to the design and manufacturing process. Additionally, projects typically require close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and may involve rapidly adapting to evolving project requirements driven by client needs or new technological developments. Managing tight deadlines while ensuring compliance with military specifications is also a frequent aspect of the role. These challenges are balanced by the opportunity to work on innovative, mission-critical systems and to gain experience with cutting-edge technologies.

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

To excel as a Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, a relevant engineering degree, and often a security clearance. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of defense-specific standards and certifications like ITAR compliance are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills are critical for collaborating on complex defense projects. These competencies ensure the engineer can design reliable, compliant systems that meet stringent defense requirements and function under high-stakes conditions.

What is the difference between Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer vs Defense Industry Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDefense Contractor Mechanical EngineerDefense Industry Mechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly security clearanceBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly security clearance
Work EnvironmentContractor offices, military facilities, project sitesDefense manufacturing plants, military facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily employed by defense contractors serving military clientsEmployed directly by defense agencies or manufacturers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles require similar credentials and often involve working in secure environments. The main difference is that Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineers are employed by private firms providing services to defense clients, while Defense Industry Mechanical Engineers work directly within defense agencies or manufacturing companies. The roles overlap in skills and work settings, but their employment context distinguishes them.

What does a Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer do?

A Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer designs, develops, and tests mechanical systems for military and defense applications. Their work may involve creating components for vehicles, weapons, or support equipment used by armed forces. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure these systems meet strict safety, reliability, and performance standards. Additionally, they must adhere to government regulations and security protocols while handling sensitive information. Their role is critical in advancing defense technologies and maintaining national security.
More about Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs are:
Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 74% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer - Mid -

Mechanical Engineer - Mid -

Elite Technical

Pittsfield, MA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Mechanical Engineer - Jr & Mid

Join a premier federal defense contractor developing the next generation of mission-critical technology for the U.S. Navy. We''''re seeking a Mid-level Mechanical Engineer to become part of an innovative, cross-functional engineering team supporting the Surface Ships Program. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to advanced mechanical systems that help ensure the safety and effectiveness of our nation''''s naval fleet.
What You''''ll Do:
As a Mid-level Mechanical Engineer, you''''ll collaborate with experienced engineers across multiple disciplines to design, develop, test, and deliver mechanical systems for U.S. Navy surface ships. Your work will have a direct impact on cutting-edge defense technologies from concept through installation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for shipboard systems.
- Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings.
- Support prototype development, testing, manufacturing, and system integration.
- Partner with cross-functional engineering teams to solve complex technical challenges.
- Participate in equipment installation and validation on Navy surface ships.
- Identify opportunities to leverage AI and emerging technologies to improve engineering processes and drive innovation.

<>Required Skills

- U.S. Citizenship is required due to government security clearance requirements.
- Ability to obtain a DoD Secret Security Clearance.
- Bachelor''''s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related STEM discipline with 5+ years of relevant experience, or a Master''''s degree with at least 3 years of relevant experience.
- Experience using CAD software to develop mechanical models and engineering drawings.
- Extensive knowledge of manufacturing and fabrication methods, as well as technical, government, and industry standards
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a creative approach to engineering challenges.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills with a passion for working in a team environment.
- A commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and engineering excellence.

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