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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

Oshkosh Corporation

Mechanical Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$64K - $103K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer, you'll play a key role in designing and developing system components that ... Defense, Vocational, and Access business segments. This is an exciting opportunity to build your ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Mechanical Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$64K - $103K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer, you'll play a key role in designing and developing system components that ... Defense, Vocational, and Access business segments. This is an exciting opportunity to build your ...

CrossFire Group

Mechanical Engineer I

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$41.55/hr

Defense | Heavy Vehicle Engineering HELP DESIGN THE NEXT GENERATION OF HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLES Our Client is seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to support the design, development, analysis, and integration ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

About Oshkosh Defense, an Oshkosh company Oshkosh Defense stands behind those who dedicate their ... The Sr Engineer - Mechanical designs functional, reliable and cost-effective automotive closure ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

About Oshkosh Defense, an Oshkosh company Oshkosh Defense stands behind those who dedicate their ... The Sr Engineer - Mechanical designs functional, reliable and cost-effective automotive closure ...

Amcor

Mechanical Designer

New London, WI

Manufacturing and mechanical aptitude. What We Want From You Associate Degree in Mechanical Design ... contractors. Support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting efforts. Maintain engineering ...

Amcor plc

Mechanical Designer

New London, WI · On-site

What We Want From You • Associate Degree in Mechanical Design, Mechanical Engineering Technology ... stakeholders, vendors, and contractors. • Support installation, commissioning, and ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

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 27, 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 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 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.

Mechanical Engineer

Oshkosh Corporation

Oshkosh, WI • On-site

$64K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

At Oshkosh, we build, serve and protect people and communities around the world by designing and manufacturing some of the toughest specialty trucks and access equipment. We employ over 18,000 team members all united by a common purpose. Our engineering and product innovation help keep soldiers and firefighters safe, is critical in building and keeping communities clean and helps people do their jobs every day.
As a Mechanical Engineer, you'll play a key role in designing and developing system components that keep Oshkosh vehicles performing in the toughest environments. Working alongside experienced engineers, manufacturing teams, and advanced analysis specialists, you'll contribute to innovative solutions that support products across Defense, Vocational, and Access business segments. This is an exciting opportunity to build your engineering career by solving complex technical challenges, collaborating on cutting-edge vehicle systems, and seeing your designs come to life from concept through production.
YOUR IMPACT:
  • Under close supervision, perform basic engineering calculations, investigations, and tasks as assigned according to Oshkosh's internal requirements as well as general industry engineering standards and processes.
  • Support senior engineers in the preparation of basic plans, designs, computation methods, and/or reporting.
  • Under close supervision, work on projects of limited complexity in a support role.
  • Support the design, development, and validation of chassis systems and components including suspension, steering, braking systems, drivetrain components, and wheel hub reductions across multiple Oshkosh business segments.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams, including structural and dynamic analysis teams, to support component development and system performance.
  • Interface with manufacturing facilities primarily in the Oshkosh area to provide production support, support product development, troubleshooting, and implementation of process improvements. Occasional travel may be required.
  • Collaborate as needed with other engineering or business support disciplines internally as well as suppliers externally.
  • Maintain effective communication and documentation 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, durability, manufacturability, and reliability.
  • Perform and direct preparation of layouts, drawings, specifications, and bills of material.
  • Perform engineering analysis to support component selection, tolerancing, and materials that meet requirements.
  • Utilize engineering analysis and simulation tools to evaluate component and system performance while supporting design optimization.
  • Support analysis and resolution of issues reported to Engineering during design or production of products via verbal or written communication.
  • Support preparation of technical proposals, quotations, reports, and presentations.
  • Utilize analytical and mathematical approaches to calculate or model system performance and optimize designs.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Job requires regular in-person attendance for performance of duties

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Accredited Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field along with Internship experience or six (6) or more months of related work experience.

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Accredited Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology.
  • Mechanical knowledge of automotive, off-highway, agricultural, or heavy-duty vehicle systems including suspension, steering, braking, and drivetrain components.
  • Experience with a high-level CAD system such as Creo or CATIA.
  • Experience with casting/machining, fabrication, and tooling design for prototype and production customers.
  • Exposure to engineering analysis tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python, or finite element analysis (FEA).
  • Understanding of GD&T and its application.
  • Understanding of mechanical design principles.
  • Hands-on engineering experience through Formula SAE, Baja SAE, snowmobile, robotics, capstone projects, internships, or similar extracurricular Mechanical engineering programs.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering disciplines and manufacturing teams.
  • Demonstrated growth mindset with a willingness to learn and develop new technical skills.

Pay Range:
$64,500.00 - $103,500.00
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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