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Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sigma Defense

1641 - Mechanical Engineer

Belcamp, MD · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Sigma Defense is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer to work in support of the Army for the ... Defense contracting market of major weapon systems product development and acquisitions is ...

Sigma Defense

1641 - Mechanical Engineer

Belcamp, MD · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Sigma Defense is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer to work in support of the Army for the ... Defense contracting market of major weapon systems product development and acquisitions is ...

Sigma Defense

1641 - Mechanical Engineer

Belcamp, MD · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Sigma Defense is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer to work in support of the Army for the ... Defense contracting market of major weapon systems product development and acquisitions is ...

Brandes Associates Inc.

$120 - $140/hr

Overview BAI, a defense contractor, is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with Digital Engineering/MBSE experience. The candidate will have over 10 years of mechanical design, thermal and static analysis ...

Posted today

Our Company

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Signalink a dynamic, small defense contractor committed to excellence in providing advanced defense solutions. We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our ...

Our Company

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$115 - $155/hr

Signalink a dynamic, small defense contractor committed to excellence in providing advanced defense solutions. We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our ...

Sentradel

Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

... with defense contractors. How we work Full time, in person at our San Francisco office. We also ... Job Overview We are seeking a mechanical engineer to join the team developing Sentradel ...

NDI Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Thorofare, NJ · On-site

$83K - $114K/yr

The ideal candidate will be able to collaborate with Navy program offices, contractors, and ... defense of our country. NDI offerings include naval architecture, marine, civil, structural ...

NDI Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Lakehurst, NJ · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Department of Defense Security Clearance. * Must possess a Bachelor of Science in Engineering ... This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300 ...

NDI Engineering Company

Mechanical Engineer

Lakehurst, NJ · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Department of Defense Security Clearance. * Must possess a Bachelor of Science in Engineering ... This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300 ...

Lunar Resources

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

The Mission We are looking for a Mechanical Engineer who is hungry, obsessed with building, and ... You aren't looking for a stable 9-5 at a legacy defense contractor. You want to build something ...

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All Jobsdefense contractor JobsDefense Contractor Mechanical Engineer Jobs

Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 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.

More about Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs are:

Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER (Aerospace & Defense)

Marvin Group

Inglewood, CA

$109K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Salary is based on experience, skills, and education

This position is 100% onsite

The Marvin Group is a Strategic Partner for Global Alternate Mission Equipment and Sustainment

The Marvin Group, a leading defense contractor, plays a crucial role in the development and manufacturing of various systems for military aerospace and vehicles. Based in Southern California near the Los Angeles International Airport, The Marvin Group consists of Marvin Engineering (MEC), Marvin Test Solutions (MTS) and Marvin Land Systems (MLS).  Marvin Engineering designs and produces military Alternate Mission Equipment.  Marvin Test Solutions designs and manufactures armament Test Equipment. Marvin Land Systems specializes in the design and build of power and thermal management systems. For over 60 years we have maintained "A Tradition of Excellence", serving as a trusted source for our unwavering commitment to supporting all branches of the Department of Defense and our global allies. Our collaboration extends across a diverse array of programs and platforms, including major military prime contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon.

SCOPE:

Lead/assist the development of electro-mechanical and electro-hydraulic systems. Supports the development, maintenance, or modification/upgrade of system designs. Mechanical Engineer will design, develop, document, and test the subsystems used on military application.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Ability to lead, own and understand subsystem designs such as electromechanical, structural, fluid, thermal and control systems, and improve their requirements.

Design and analysis of components and subsystems for electromechanical and electrohydraulic systems.

Manage prototype builds, planning, fabrications, and documentation.

Assess and resolve product/process issues through the product lifecycle.

Work with cross-functional teams to conduct root cause analysis and develop dispositions for complex design non[1]conformances.

Lead the development, test and production activities and directs the supplier to optimize integration and achieve program goals.

Prepare schematics, diagrams, drawings, and reports.

Participate in program reviews activities and technical reviews.

Perform testing and prepare test reports for components and subsystems.

SKILLS / REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor or Master of Science degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering with at least 10 years of experience.

Experience with 3D modeling packages such as Pro Engineer (CREO), AutoCAD, ANSYS preferred but not necessary.

Knowledgeable in manufacturing methods, fabrication processes (e.g., forming, stamping, machining, heat treatment, instrumentation, and data acquisition and control systems).

Geometric dimensioning, tolerance, and stack-up analysis.

Experience with integration of military systems/standards is a plus. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to work well within a team.

Must be able to speak/read/write English.

Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs.

This position must meet export control compliance requirements. All applicants must be "U.S. persons" within the meaning of ITAR, as defined: a U.S. Citizen, a lawful permanent resident, political asylee, or refugee.
Interested parties please apply online and submit resume to https://jobs.marvingroup.com/ 

Visit us at https://http://marvingroup.com/
The Marvin Group is an EEO/Disability/Vets Employer.
Our company uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.
If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact People & Culture at 310.674.5030.

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