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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

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Engineering Director

De Pere, WI

... contractors, and industry partners Preferred Knowledge, Experience & Skills Requirements: Minimum 4 years of experience in mechanical engineering with focus on HVAC and plumbing systems 3-5 years of ...

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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$44.4K

$100.4K

$162.5K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor mechanical engineer in Appleton, WI is $100,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $123,400.00 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?

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.
What are popular job titles related to Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI? For Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $100,381 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Senior Engineer - Mechanical (Hybrid)

Oshkosh Corporation

Oshkosh, WI • Hybrid

$73K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

About Oshkosh Defense, an Oshkosh company

Oshkosh Defense stands behind those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. As an industry-leading tactical vehicle manufacturer, every day we strive to meet or exceed our customers' ever-changing needs with next generation defense technologies and advanced systems. We operate with unparalleled commitment to those who depend on our products and services worldwide to perform their missions.

The Senior Engineer - Mechanical designs functional, reliable and cost effective, heavy duty vehicle components. Perform engineering analysis and design or re-design, and development of components into existing and new vehicles. Provide integration and execution support for vehicle and component design.

* This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, with three days in the office and two days working from home each week.

YOUR IMPACT:

  • Under supervision, perform engineering calculations, investigations, and tasks as assigned according to Oshkosh as well as general industry engineering standards and processes.

  • Support more senior engineers in the preparation of plans, designs, computation methods, and/or reporting.

  • Responsible for a project or part of a project of limited complexity.

  • May be responsible for managing multiple projects.

  • Collaborate as needed with other engineering or business support disciplines internally as well as suppliers externally.

  • Provide guidance or mentorship to entry level engineers, designers, or technicians working on a common project.

  • Maintain effective communication with suppliers, internal and external customers, and outside resources concerning technical issues.

  • Enforce the proper use of engineering criteria and drawing standards. Ensure that technical issues are conducted within the framework of company policies and procedures.

  • Evaluate designs for performance, safety, and reliability.

  • Perform and Directs preparation of layouts, drawings, specifications, and bills of material.

  • Perform engineering analysis to support the selection of parts, components, and materials that meet requirements.

  • Provide technical assistance for production support.

  • Analyze and resolve issues reported to Engineering via verbal or written communication.

  • Prepare technical proposals, quotations, reports, and presentations.

  • Create and maintain project documentation for analysis, research, and historical records.

  • Utilize analytical and mathematical approaches to calculate or model system performance and optimize designs.

  • Analyze and resolve issues reported to Engineering and communicate status via verbal or written communication.

  • Other duties as assigned.

  • Regular attendance is required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Accredited Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field with three (3) or more years of related experience.

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Accredited Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.

  • Mechanical knowledge of automotive or heavy-vehicle equipment and related systems.

  • Experience with a high level CAD system.

Pay Range:

$73,200.00 - $117,800.00

The above pay range reflects the minimum and maximum target pay for the position across all U.S. locations. Within this range, individual pay is determined by various factors, including the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, education and skills, as well as the equity of pay among team members in similar positions. Beyond offering a competitive total rewards package, we prioritize a people-first culture and offer various opportunities to support team member growth and success.

Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodation to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to disability for any part of the employment process, please contact us at corporatetalentacquisition@oshkoshcorp.com.

Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer.Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.

Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.

Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.

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