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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Navarro Inc.

Mechanical Engineer (3915)

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Navarro Research & Engineering is an award-winning federal contractor dedicated to partnering with ... Department of Defense. Position Summary The Mechanical Engineer will support the design and ...

Navarro Inc.

Mechanical Engineer (3915)

Oak Ridge, TN · Remote

Navarro Research & Engineering is an award-winning federal contractor dedicated to partnering with ... Department of Defense. Position Summary The Mechanical Engineer will support the design and ...

Navarro Inc.

Mechanical Engineer (3915)

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Navarro Research & Engineering is an award-winning federal contractor dedicated to partnering with ... Department of Defense. Position Summary The Mechanical Engineer will support the design and ...

Mesa Accosiates

Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... defense, aerospace, industrial, commercial, and municipal entities. We specialize in power ... Mesa Associates is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our team, working closely with our ...

Napakiak Ventures

Mechanical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$148K - $168K/yr

NEC is seeking a Mechanical Engineer-PE with experience in piping systems and fluid transfer ... Review Contractor Proposals (Architectural Engineering and/or Construction) to ensure alignment ...

Napakiak Ventures

Mechanical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

NEC is seeking a Mechanical Engineer-PE with experience in piping systems and fluid transfer ... Review Contractor Proposals (Architectural Engineering and/or Construction) to ensure alignment ...

Pae

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site +1

$99K - $131K/yr

Senior Mechanical Engineer Amentum is a global leader in advanced engineering and innovative solutions, supporting critical missions across defense, intelligence, energy, and civilian sectors. Our ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$43.5K

$98.4K

$159.2K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor mechanical engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $98,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,900.00 and $120,900.00 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 Oak Ridge, TN?

For Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN 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 Oak Ridge, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,356 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Edgewater Technical Associates

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Edgewater Technical Associates is seeking qualified candidates for a Mechanical Engineer opportunity in Oak Ridge, TN.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join a multidisciplinary engineering team supporting the development of specialized industrial process systems. This role will be responsible for the mechanical design, analysis, and documentation of equipment and integrated systems used in demanding industrial environments. The successful candidate will work closely with process, controls, electrical, and project engineers to develop designs from conceptual phases through detailed engineering and construction support.
The position requires strong mechanical design skills, experience developing fabrication and assembly drawings, and the ability to work within a regulated, quality-driven engineering environment.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and develop mechanical systems, equipment, piping, and support structures for industrial process applications.
  • Create and maintain 3D models, fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, installation drawings, and bills of material.
  • Perform engineering calculations and analyses related to fluid systems, heat transfer, pressure systems, and mechanical equipment.
  • Develop equipment layouts and coordinate system integration with process, electrical, controls, and project engineering teams.
  • Prepare engineering documentation including specifications, calculations, design reports, and construction packages.
  • Review vendor drawings and technical submittals to ensure compliance with project requirements.
  • Support design reviews, safety evaluations, construction activities, equipment installation, startup, and commissioning.
  • Ensure designs comply with applicable codes, standards, quality requirements, and safety regulations.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, procurement, and field personnel to resolve technical issues and support project execution.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • Minimum 5 years of mechanical design experience in industrial, process, manufacturing, energy, chemical, nuclear, or related engineering environments.
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD software.
  • Experience developing fabrication, assembly, and installation drawings.
  • Knowledge of piping and mechanical system design principles.
  • Familiarity with engineering calculations related to fluid systems, heat transfer, pressure systems, and mechanical equipment.
  • Understanding of applicable engineering codes and standards, including ASME, ANSI, ASTM, and related industry standards.
  • Experience reviewing and incorporating vendor-supplied equipment documentation.
  • Strong technical writing, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative engineering team environment.

Other Job Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship
  • DOE Q Security Clearance

If you are interested in being considered for this position and your resume clearly outlines your relevant experience for this position, please follow the application steps via our website: www.edgewatertech.net/careers
Edgewater will not submit your resume without first having detailed discussions with you and obtaining your permission to do so. We look forward to hearing from you!
WORKING WITH EDGEWATER TECHNICAL ASSOCIATES
Founded in 2003, Edgewater Technical Associates, LLC (Edgewater) is a New Mexico-based small business headquartered in Los Alamos, NM, with five (5) regional offices across the United States to locally support their growing presence at project sites. Edgewater has a proven track record and is a trusted provider of fixed-price construction projects, engineering, and technical services for the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD), National Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Canadian Commercial Nuclear Industry, and private sector commercial contractors involved in nuclear, high-hazard, or complex operations. Edgewater's experience and guidance ensure that its customers perform hazardous operations, comply with regulatory requirements, and maintain the highest quality and safety standards.
Originally founded to support the Los Alamos National Laboratory, Edgewater now supports customers across the U.S. and Canada. Edgewater has five offices, with corporate headquarters in Los Alamos, NM and regional offices in Carlsbad, NM; Oak Ridge, TN; Aiken, SC; and Richland, WA.
Edgewater is committed to recruiting and maintaining a staff of highly skilled professionals to support our customers. In keeping with this objective, we offer highly competitive salaries and employee benefit packages structured to best suit your needs. We offer multiple individual and family benefit options including paid time off, medical, dental, life, vision, and disability insurance, and a pre- and post-tax 401 (k) retirement account with Company matching contributions and 100% vesting for eligible participants beginning DAY 1.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Edgewater is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veterans, or individuals with disabilities in accordance with EO 14173.
View all Edgewater opportunities at www.edgewatertech.net/careers

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