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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Rochester, MN

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction, or related field preferred * 2+ years of ... Your life at Harris As one of the country's leading mechanical contractors, Harris offers you the ...

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction, or related field preferred * 2+ years of ... Your life at Harris As one of the country's leading mechanical contractors, Harris offers you the ...

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CNC Milling Machinist

Rochester, MN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Horizontal Machining Centers - programming and running horizontal mills to tight tolerances ... mechanical aptitude. * Proficient on manual and CNC mills and lathes, including hand filing and ...

CNC Milling Machinist

Rochester, MN · On-site

$30 - $42/hr

Horizontal Machining Centers - programming and running horizontal mills to tight tolerances ... mechanical aptitude. * Proficient on manual and CNC mills and lathes, including hand filing and ...

Incoming Inspector I

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17.72 - $19.50/hr

Summary: Incoming Inspector performs visual, mechanical and electrical inspection on parts ... engineering, as appropriate • Follows and maintains accurate process documentation and recommend ...

Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with industrial equipment. * Good communication ... Familiarity with aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing environments is a plus. FULL-TIME ...

Saw Operator

Rochester, MN · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with industrial equipment. * Good communication ... Familiarity with aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing environments is a plus. FULL-TIME ...

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Saw Operator

Rochester, MN · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with industrial equipment. * Good communication ... Familiarity with aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing environments is a plus. FULL-TIME ...

Showing results 41-60

Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$46.3K

$104.6K

$169.2K

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor mechanical engineer in Rochester, MN is $104,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,800.00 and $128,600.00 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 job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings:

QA Inspector- Grand Forks, ND

Accura Engineering

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

QA Inspector
Work Location: Grand Forks, ND ( Grand Forks AFB)
Salary: Based on experience and will be discussed with manager in interview
REQUIREMENT- Must be a US Citizen and must pass a federal background review and drug screen
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Observes and investigates construction phases for compliance with schedules, specifications, and shop drawings. Identifies problems, recommends changes, and assesses the need for contract modifications.
  • Performs inspections and completes daily site reports in RMS. Include comments and monitoring of progress, work activities, safety issues and subcontractor manpower in the reports.
  • Assists in all phases of the contract modification process. Assists in preparation of scopes of work for RFP's, assists in preparation of government estimates, assists with reviews of contractor's proposals, and assists with preparation of contract modification documentation.
  • Reviews and analyzes contractor plans and technical submittals for approval action, including progress schedules, environmental, safety and quality control programs, certifications and shop drawings.
  • Prepares correspondence regarding Contractor performance, Requests for Equitable Adjustments (REAs), Requests for Information (RFIs) and other technical issues.
  • Prepares both partial and final payment estimates including the measurement and computation of pay item quantities, verification of materials on hand, and percentage complete of lump sum items.
  • Monitors scheduled progress of all construction activities and phases of construction and advises the Resident Engineer, COR, and project team of potential slippage or delay
  • Participates and executes RFI and Submittal reviews, including coordination with the designers, RE, and technical experts and executes responses to the contractor.
  • Logs and maintains data as necessary to assist with project management and decision making.
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Education/Experience:
  • High School Diploma/GED minimum; Construction related degree, preferred
  • Minimum of 5 years of applicable experience on construction projects large complex multimillion dollar federal projects, Department of Defense or USACE preferred
  • Experience using RMS 3.0, preferred
  • Experience with three-phase inspection process
  • Experience with OSHA and EM 385-1-1 USACE Safety Manual, preferred

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary based on experience.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Retirement savings plan with company match.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
  • A supportive and collaborative work environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer (U.S.) all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Accura uses E-Verify in its hiring practices to achieve a lawful workplace. www.dhs.gov/everify