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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Mechanical Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

Ability to qualify for a US Department of Defense security clearance required. The position is in-person and not remote. Toyon is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support a critical infrastructure ...

Ability to qualify for a US Department of Defense security clearance required. The position is in-person and not remote. Toyon is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support a critical infrastructure ...

Mechanical Engineer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... Nightwing is hiring a Senior Mechanical Engineer for our Springfield, VA location to support ...

Mechanical Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, validate, and support the production of advanced fiber optic and telecommunication products for defense and aerospace applications.

... of Defense, Intelligence, and National Security missions Under a major Intelligence Community ... As the Mechanical Engineer , you will be designing, analyzing, and implementing mechanical systems ...

... of Defense, Intelligence, and National Security missions Under a major Intelligence Community ... As the Mechanical Engineer , you will be designing, analyzing, and implementing mechanical systems ...

Mechanical Engineer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... Nightwing is hiring a Senior Mechanical Engineer for our Springfield, VA location to support ...

We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, validate, and support the production of advanced fiber optic and telecommunication products for defense and aerospace applications.

We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, validate, and support the production of advanced fiber optic and telecommunication products for defense and aerospace applications.

We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, validate, and support the production of advanced fiber optic and telecommunication products for defense and aerospace applications.

... contractors, utilities, and other personnel, to ensure success across various electrical projects ... Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets ...

Showing results 21-40

Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer information

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense contractor mechanical engineer?

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$125K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

U.S. Citizenship Required. Ability to qualify for a US Department of Defense security clearance required.
The position is in-person and not remote.
Toyon is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support a critical infrastructure protection program. In this role, you will work closely with Toyon's engineering team and client stakeholders, supporting the design, analysis, commissioning, and optimization of custom air handling and environmental control systems. This position combines traditional mechanical engineering with building automation, controls programming, and system integration. Job assignments include a range of office and on-site work to meet with stakeholders and oversee implementation of government-approved initiatives.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical, Architectural, or related engineering discipline
  • 5 or more years of experience with HVAC or mechanical system design (AHUs, ducting, fans, motors, or related systems)
  • Understanding of DDC programming, including alarms, trends, sequences of operations, and supervisory control strategies
  • Experience leading mechanical design projects through installation, submittals and system startup

Preferred Skills and Certifications
  • Familiarity with ASHRAE, ISO, ANSI, or similar mechanical/air quality standards
  • Experience with filtration systems or air quality technologies in industrial, commercial or laboratory environments including HEPA/ULPA, activated carbon, UVGI, or other advanced filtration systems
  • Experience with specialized air systems (cleanrooms, BSL labs, high-purity manufacturing, or defense applications)
  • Professional Engineering license, active or ability to reactivate. Toyon may also offer educational assistance for pursuit of PE license.

WE OFFER AN EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE!
  • Competitive Industry Pay
  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical Insurance Premium
  • HSA with Employer Contributions
  • Dental and Vision Coverage Options
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation and Sick leave
  • Company Funded 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plans
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Discretionary Bonus Eligibility

The annual pay range for the Mechanical Engineer position is $125,000 to $165,000.
The posted pay range values provide the candidate with guidance on annual base compensation for the position, at a full time level of effort, exclusive of overtime, bonus, and benefits-related compensation, over a range of qualifications that may fit hiring objectives. Toyon Research Corporation will consider the individual candidate's education, work experience, applicable knowledge, skills and training, among other factors, when preparing an offer of employment.
Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability and Veterans
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Learn more about our company in our latest video, We are Toyon.
The application window for this posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Ref #2677-G