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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Rochester, MI

Survice

Mechanical Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$101K - $115K/yr

You will accelerate your career and become an integral team member within the defense community ... VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

STS Technical Services

Mechanical Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

STS Technical Services is seeking experienced Mechanical Engineers to support product design ... defense, and industrial sectors. We connect engineers and technical professionals with roles that ...

Peter Basso Associates

Mechanical Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

As a Mechanical Engineer at Peter Basso Associates, you'll join project teams working with top architects, contractors, and facility owners across diverse markets - education, healthcare, research ...

Stantec

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berkley, MI · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

... contractor, sub-contractors, and vendors. * Participates in client project requirement meetings ... Thorough understanding of mechanical engineering concepts and ability to effectively communicate ...

Stantec

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berkley, MI · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

... contractor, sub-contractors, and vendors. * Participates in client project requirement meetings ... Thorough understanding of mechanical engineering concepts and ability to effectively communicate ...

Meade

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$150K - $191K/yr

... contractors. * Oversee mechanical design from concept through construction, ensuring quality ... Professional Engineer (PE) license required and in good standing. * Demonstrated experience acting ...

Daifuku

Mechanical Engineer II (Airport)

Novi, MI

The Mechanical Design Engineer will develop the layout final design, design equipment power ... contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to ...

ROCKWOOL

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Detroit, MI

$115K - $135K/yr

Erosion & Sedimentation - storm water management (coordination with contractor) * Fire safety ... Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering and/or Project Management is preferred * 10+ years ...

FAC Services

HVAC Mechanical Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Multiple years of experience in Industrial HVAC and Mechanical Systems design at a consulting engineering firm or a Design/Build Mechanical Contractor. * Knowledge and experience with chilled, tower ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Rochester, MI

Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer information

See Rochester, MI salary details

$41.9K

$94.7K

$153.3K

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 Rochester, MI is $94,694.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $116,400.00 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 Rochester, MI? For Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MI are:
What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Rochester, MI 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 Rochester, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,694 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

SURVICE Engineering Company

Warren, MI • On-site

$101K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Join Us in Making a Difference in the Lives of Those Defending Our Nation!
Why SURVICE?
Come join the SURVICE Engineering mission to protect, enhance, and enable those who defend the United States. Since 1981, we have supported the DoD community, as well as Homeland Security, advanced technologies, environmental, and commercial markets. Our employees have backgrounds in engineering, physics, mathematics, chemistry, computer science, acquisition, technical writing, training, and other technical and administrative fields. And many of our personnel have DoD and/or operational military experience. If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career with a leading organization, come see what we can offer you!
Position
Mechanical Engineer
  • Location: Detroit Arsenal, MI
  • Security Clearance: Active Clearance Required - U.S. citizenship required
  • Salary: $101,000 - $115,000 Depending on Experience and Education
  • Travel: 10%
  • Benefits: SURVICE Engineering offers a total rewards package to include competitive salaries, comprehensive insurance options, paid time off, 401k, flexible spending, tuition reimbursement.

Position Summary
SURVICE Engineering is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support our Michigan Area Operation. You will accelerate your career and become an integral team member within the defense community.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities of Mechanical Engineer
  • Conduct research that tests or analyzes the feasibility, design, operation, or performance of equipment
  • Design or redesign mechanical devices, creating blueprints so the device can be built
  • Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports for mechanical components
  • Identify, review and recommend necessary modifications to ensure product conforms to engineering design and performance specifications
  • Plan, coordinate, or monitor the selection of manufacturing methods, fabrication, or operation and maintenance of components, ensuring optimal manufacturing or component performance
  • Conduct root cause failure analysis and develop solutions for product malfunctions or issues

Minimum Qualifications of Mechanical Engineer
Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering and 5+ years of relevant experience. Candidates are not required to possess all qualifications; is you possess some of the desired qualifications, please apply.
Desired Experience
  • Must have an automotive or combat vehicle background
  • Work in a team environment
  • Good communication skills
  • Effectively root cause issues and come up with solutions
  • Mechanical skills
  • Creativity

About Us
SURVICE Engineering is a nationally recognized, single-source engineering service provider for Government and Industry organizations involved in all phases of the systems engineering process. Our employees are our most valuable asset, and they are proud to have supported the development, testing, analysis, and modeling and simulation (M&S) of many of the major U.S. air, land, and sea combat systems in the field today. They have also contributed their expertise to other vital national defense programs and technologies that involve survivability, cybersecurity, information technology/management, software engineering, unmanned aerial systems (UASs), and metrology/reverse engineering.
SURVICE Engineering is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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