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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Teledyne

Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality ... of mechanical or electromechanical products and systems. Applies knowledge of engineering ...

Kanadevia Inova

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

KVI acts as an engineering, procurement and construction contractor and project developer ... Provide mechanical engineering support to proposal and project teams for planning, design ...

Kanadevia Inova

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

KVI acts as an engineering, procurement and construction contractor and project developer ... Provide mechanical engineering support to proposal and project teams for planning, design ...

Mesa Accosiates

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

... defense, aerospace, industrial, commercial, and municipal entities. We specialize in power ... Mesa Associates is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to serve as a true generalist across our ...

Pro2Serve

Mechanical Engineer III-Piping

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Login Now Mechanical Engineer III-Piping Job Code:2026-P2S-027 Location:Oak Ridge, TN Division ... We support the defense, energy, and science markets through responsive, cost-effective execution of ...

Mesa Associates Inc.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

... defense, aerospace, industrial, commercial, and municipal entities. We specialize in power ... Mesa Associates, Inc. is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our team based in Knoxville ...

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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

Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.

Harriman, TN • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Overview
Longenecker & Associates (L&A), a Geosyntec Company, is a trusted partner enabling critical missions across the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) complex for more than 30 years. We contribute to DOE's nuclear security and environmental remediation enterprise by providing the highest-caliber staff and experts. We are seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineer to contribute to our mission supporting our work at Centrus Energy in Oak Ridge, TN.
Geosyntec is an innovative, international engineering and consulting firm serving private and public-sector clients to address new ventures and complex problems involving our environment, natural resources, and civil infrastructure. Our engineers, scientists, technical and project employees serve our clients from offices across the world. Ranked by ENR as one of the top environmental engineering design firms, Geosyntec is internationally known for its technical leadership, broad experience, and exceptional client service.
We invest in our people. Each employee is unique, and your career at Geosyntec will be too. We offer competitive pay and benefits, and well-being programs to support you and your family.
To Learn More Visit: http://www.geosyntec.com/careers/.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Reporting directly to the Engineering Manager, the Sr. Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for supporting scopes of work activities associated with components, assemblies, and machines in the Centrifuge Project. Provides support to the Centrifuge Program to accomplish goals and objectives while ensuring compliance to Centrus standards and practices.
  • Assist in leading, designing, building, and troubleshooting the following;
    • Plant expansion activities;
    • Large scale heating and cooling systems;
    • High vacuum systems;
    • Helium leak detection equipment;
    • Composite parts and assemblies;
    • Machined parts and assemblies;
  • Assist in design and analysis of structural and dynamic systems;
  • Design manufacturing equipment as needed for manufacturing activities;
  • Develop specifications for fabrication materials and equipment;
  • Assist in the creation, review, and approval of engineering packages to be used for fabrication;
  • Establish procedures for assembly and repair of fabricated components;
  • Drive process improvement activities for internal activities and external suppliers;
  • Manage multiple priorities and ensure that deliverables are met within schedule and budget;
  • Adheres to company policies and procedures with regards to safety, code of conduct, security, and environmental program requirements; and
  • Contribute to cross functional teams including design, engineering, manufacturing, operations, testing, quality and purchasing.

Education and Licensure
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering required.
  • Advanced degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering preferred.

Skills, Experience and Qualifications
  • At least 3 years of working experience in a Nuclear and/or DOE environment; or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
  • 3+ years of CAD experience.
  • SolidWorks experience.
  • CREO experience.
  • FEA experience.
  • Due to federal contract security requirements, this position requires U.S. Citizenship.
  • Due to federal contract security requirements, candidates must be able to successfully pass a federal background investigation to secure and maintain DOE Q security clearance.
  • Successful candidates will be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. This job posting reflects management's assignment of essential functions and the descriptions listed do not restrict management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
  • Health & Safety training, medical monitoring, and client-driven drug and background testing. (required)

Please note that marijuana remains a Schedule III controlled substance under Federal Law. Federal contractors must follow Federal drug-free workplace rules, which prohibit marijuana use, even if medical or recreational use is permitted under State Law.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & LOCATION DETAILS:
  • Active Q Clearance.
  • Project Management experience.
  • Experience with Centrifuge or HALEU projects.
  • Work will be performed at the Centrus facility in Oak Ridge, TN.

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