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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reno, NV

FAIRWAY IMPORT-EXPORT INC.

Be Seen First

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Aviation

Carson City, NV · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-performance protective equipment is highly preferred. * Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Aerospace Engineering, or ...

Rocket EMS

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Carson City, NV · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

This role serves as a technical leader across SMT, through-hole, mechanical assembly, test, rework ... defense-level workmanship expectations. This position is hands-on and requires strong problem ...

Rocket EMS

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Carson City, NV · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

This role serves as a technical leader across SMT, through-hole, mechanical assembly, test, rework ... defense-level workmanship expectations. This position is hands-on and requires strong problem ...

Bedrock

Mechanical Assembler

Minden, NV · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Conduct test assembly per customer specifications and engineering requirements * Operate and ... We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything ...

Holder Construction

MEP - Senior Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

... Contractors list. We are a performance-driven company that believes in rewarding excellence and ... Communicate with electrical and mechanical equipment vendors, design engineers, clients, and ...

Belcan

R&D Engineer III

Carson City, NV · On-site

$98K - $145K/yr

Analyze mechanical, material, durability, environmental, and application-test results; investigate ... Aerospace, defense, space, UAV/AAM, marine, automotive advanced materials, or another regulated ...

CGI Inc

Manufacturing Engineer

Carson City, NV · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Knowledgeable concerning mechanical principles, machining practices Knowledgeable concerning modern ... aerospace, defense, medical, robotics and semi-conductor have earned CGI a reputation for ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reno, NV

Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer information

See Reno, NV salary details

$45.4K

$102.6K

$166K

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor mechanical engineer in Reno, NV is $102,576.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,300.00 and $126,100.00 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 Reno, NV?

For Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reno, NV look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reno, NV are:

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV 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 Reno, NV 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 $102,576 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Aviation

FAIRWAY IMPORT-EXPORT INC.

Carson City, NV • On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

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Job description

SUMMARY:

We are seeking an exceptionally skilled and forward-thinking Senior 3D Designer to lead the mechanical and aesthetic development of next-generation pilot helmets. In this role, you will be responsible for designing cutting-edge headborne systems for military, commercial, and generational aviation applications.

The ideal candidate possesses an elite level of mastery in SolidWorks, with a specific, proven track record in advanced surface modeling (surfacing). You will translate complex ergonomic data, industrial design concepts, and optical/electronic integration requirements into high-performance, manufacturable, and life-saving products.

Key Responsibilities

1. Advanced Surface Modeling & Product Design

  • Execute complex, high-class surface modeling in SolidWorks to create organic, aerodynamic, and ergonomically precise helmet shells and components.
  • Integrate advanced sub-systems into the helmet architecture, including heads-up displays (HUDs), night vision goggle (NVG) mounts, oxygen mask receivers, communications gear, and life-support systems.
  • Maintain master models and top-down design assemblies to ensure seamless component integration and parametric robustness.

2. Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner closely with Industrial Designers to transform conceptual sketches and aesthetic visions into production-ready 3D geometry without losing design intent.
  • Collaborate with Aerospace, Optical, and Human Factors Engineers to satisfy strict weight, balance, center of gravity (CG), and impact-mitigation requirements.
  • Work with manufacturing partners to optimize designs for injection molding, carbon fiber/composite layups, and additive manufacturing (3D printing).

3. Design Validation & DFM

  • Conduct rigorous Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) reviews.
  • Utilize SolidWorks Simulation tools (or collaborate with FEA teams) to ensure structural integrity against high-GG environments, impact, and ballistic requirements.
  • Generate comprehensive, high-fidelity 2D engineering drawings with precise Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure strict quality control.

Required Qualifications & Skills

Technical Expertise

  • SolidWorks Mastery: Minimum of 6+ years of heavy daily use, with expert-level capability in advanced surfacing features (e.g., Loft, Boundary Surface, Fill Surface, Knit, and complex filleting).
  • Organic Shapes & Ergonomics: Proven experience designing products that interface directly with human anatomy (e.g., helmets, prosthetics, wearable tech, or high-end sporting goods).
  • Materials Knowledge: Deep understanding of advanced composites (Kevlar, Carbon Fiber), high-impact polymers, and lightweight metals (Titanium, Aluminum).

Experience & Education

  • Experience: 7+ years of experience in 3D mechanical design/product development. Experience in aerospace, defense, or high-performance protective equipment is highly preferred.
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Aerospace Engineering, or a highly related technical field (equivalent exceptional portfolio/experience considered).

Regulatory Compliance Note: Due to the military nature of our programs, candidates must be US Citizens or Permanent Residents and eligible to obtain a US Security Clearance (ITAR compliant).

Preferred Attributes

  • Attention to Detail: An uncompromising eye for seamless curvature continuity (G1G1, G2G2, and G3G3 continuity transitions).
  • Problem Solver: Ability to navigate the tight spatial constraints of integrating electronics and optics into a lightweight, wearable envelope.
  • Generational Vision: Interest in emerging aviation trends, such as augmented reality (AR) piloting visors and smart-helmet telemetry.

What We Offer

  • Opportunity to work on bleeding-edge technology that directly protects tactical aviators.
  • Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
  • State-of-the-art prototyping lab and testing facilities.
  • Collaborative, mission-driven team culture.