ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Military Sealift Command

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$56K - $84K/yr

You will serve as a Mechanical Engineer in the Military Sealift Command (MSC), Engineering ... Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days ...

Socket.dev

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100 - $135/hr

STR is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with experience in the design, fabrication, integration, and ... We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security ...

Posted today

STR

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

STR is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with experience in the design, fabrication, integration, and ... We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security ...

New

STR

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

STR is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with experience in the design, fabrication, integration, and ... We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security ...

New

Defense Logistics Agency

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$143K - $187K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer you will be responsible for the following duties: * Lead and manage ... Drug-Free Workplace Policy The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is committed to maintaining a safe ...

BWX Technologies, Inc.

Mechanical Engineer 2

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$76K - $119K/yr

S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering ... Design complex mechanical systems related to facility infrastructure (HVAC, process plumbing, pumps ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDefense Mechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer information

What does an entry level defense mechanical engineer do?

An Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and components used in defense applications, such as vehicles, weapon systems, and support equipment. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping to create technical drawings, perform simulations, and ensure products meet strict safety and quality standards. Their work often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams and adhering to government regulations and security protocols. This role provides hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology and opportunities to grow within the defense industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level defense mechanical engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), engineering simulation tools, and understanding of industry standards like ASME or MIL-STD is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills are crucial for collaborating on complex defense projects. These skills and qualifications are vital for delivering innovative, reliable solutions while meeting rigorous safety and performance standards in defense environments.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level defense mechanical engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks that support the design, analysis, and testing of military equipment and systems. Typical responsibilities include creating and modifying CAD models, assisting with prototype fabrication, conducting performance tests, and preparing technical documentation. You will often collaborate closely with senior engineers, cross-functional teams, and suppliers to solve engineering challenges and ensure projects meet strict safety and quality standards. This hands-on experience provides a solid foundation for future advancement within the defense industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer vs Entry Level Aerospace Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Defense Mechanical EngineerEntry Level Aerospace Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, security clearance often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, security clearance may be required
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government agencies, military facilitiesAerospace companies, aircraft manufacturers, government aerospace agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in defense and military sectorsPrimarily in aerospace and aviation sectors

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and may involve security clearances. While they share similar work environments and employer types, defense mechanical engineers focus on military applications, whereas aerospace mechanical engineers specialize in aircraft and spacecraft design. Understanding these differences helps candidates target their job search effectively.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Research Analyst (Mechanical Engineering)

Cherokee Federal

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$78K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support defense analytical requirements with scientific/technical research and capability analysis.

  • Provide engineering or scientific analysis support for assessments related to export licenses, risk assessments, foreign investments, and emerging technologies.

  • Prepare written assessments, synthesize intelligence data, and brief analytical outcomes to stakeholders.

Job description


Mechanical Engineer - Mid
This position requires an active TS/Sensitive Compartmental Information (SCI) clearance with the ability to obtain a Counterintelligence polygraph to be considered.
Cherokee Strategic Edge is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our Technology Transfer Analysis Team. The Mechanical Engineer will support defense analytical requirements with scientific/technical research, and capability analysis. The Mechanical Engineer's analysis and assessments can include independent research and technical writing.
Compensation & Benefits:
Estimated starting salary range: $78,000-$83,000. Pay commensurate with experience.
Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.
Mechanical Engineer - Mid Responsibilities Include:
  • Provide engineering or scientific analysis support for end-user assessments of U.S. export license applications
  • Provide engineering or scientific analysis support for Risk Assessments for Technology Transfer snapshots
  • Provide engineering or scientific analysis support for foreign investment assessments
  • Provide S&TI analysis to identify, assess, and warn about emerging and disruptive technologies potentially being transferred that enable next generation foreign military capabilities
  • Develop complex analytical approaches to problems and situations for which data is incomplete, controversial, or for which no precedent exists.
  • Develop innovative approaches to analysis and validate analytical conclusions and/or maintain and update extensive intelligence databases, systems, and mechanisms for sharing relevant intelligence information to support on-going and projected projects
  • Locate, synthesize, and interpret large amounts of textual and technical all-source intelligence information
  • Prepare extensive written assessments and documents and disseminate information through reports and briefs
  • Research, analyze, interpret, evaluate, and integrate extremely complex all-source intelligence data pertaining to technology transfer subject areas
  • Brief and defend analytical outcomes and perform exploitation requirements in coordination with peers and customers throughout the IC
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Mechanical Engineer - Mid Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance with the ability and willingness to obtain a Counterintelligence polygraph.
  • Minimum of four (4) years of experience conducting analysis related to the Mechanical Engineer position with at least a portion of experience within the last two (2) years
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field is highly desired
  • Possess knowledge of and skill in applying advanced intelligence concepts, principles, practices, laws, regulations, methods, and techniques
  • Knowledgeable of and be able to apply analytic tradecraft standards as all work shall comply with Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 203 and DIA tradecraft guidance
  • Possess advanced knowledge of the Intelligence Community (IC) and/or Department of Defense (DoD) missions and functions
  • Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:
Cherokee Strategic Edge (CSE) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CSE, visit cherokee-federal.com.
#CherokeeFederal #LI-CK4 #IntelCareers
Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.
Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
As required by our governmental client, this position requires being a US Citizen AND an active TS/Sensitive Compartmental Information (SCI) clearance.
Cherokee Federal logo

About Cherokee Federal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cherokee Federal - a division of Cherokee Nation Businesses - is a team of tribally owned federal contracting companies focused on building solutions, solving complex challenges, and serving the nation's mission around the globe for more than 60 federal clients. Our team of companies manages nearly 1,000 projects of all sizes across the construction, consulting, engineering and manufacturing, health, and technology portfolios. Since 2012, the Cherokee Federal team of companies has won more than $5 billion in government contracts. Our 3,000+ employees work in 26 countries, 50 states and 2 U.S. territories. Why choose Cherokee Federal? Visit our website and learn about the great reasons to join our team. cherokee-federal.com

Industry

Architectural services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tulsa, OK, US

Year founded

1969

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Cherokee Federal Jobs

Apply