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Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

FPGA Systems Development Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$125K - $161K/yr

We are seeking a motivated, entry-level FPGA System Development Engineer to our Aerospace, Défense and Communication Business Unit. The goal of the FPGA Team is to develop and deploy high quality ...

FPGA Systems Development Engineer

Durham, NC

$125K - $161K/yr

We are seeking a motivated, entry-level FPGA System Development Engineer to our Aerospace, Defense and Communication Business Unit. The goal of the FPGA Team is to develop and deploy high quality ...

Product Engineer

Fuquay Varina, NC · On-site

$40 - $43/hr

... Summary: Entry-level engineering role supporting product verification and validation (PV&V ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Agricultural Engineering , or related field * Strong ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$17

$32

$53

How much do entry level defense mechanical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level defense mechanical engineer in Raleigh, NC is $32.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.15 and $36.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,127 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Entry Level Electrical Designer/Engineer

Hazen and Sawyer

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Hazen & Sawyer is seeking an entry-level electrical engineer for our Raleigh, NC office. Qualified candidates should have an interest in industrial power design, including medium and low voltage electrical power distribution, generator design, motor controls, VFDs, lighting systems, equipment layout, and related activities.

Why Hazen and Sawyer:

  • Founded in 1951 by the son of Allen Hazen (developer of the Hazen-Williams equation), we are an employee-owned company with a singular focus on "all things water."
  • Our work includes planning, design, and oversight of construction of environmental infrastructure – for water, wastewater, and stormwater management.
  • We foster a work environment low on bureaucracy and high in creativity.
  • We recruit talented professionals, provide them with challenging, interesting, and creative assignments, and furnish them with the tools they need to succeed.
  • We currently have over 2,000 employees in 70+ offices throughout the United States, Latin America, Canada, and the UK.
  • Our electrical group has over 100 employees spread across more than 30 of our offices

Key Responsibilities:

  • Support lead electrical engineer(s) on multiple concurrent projects for water and wastewater facilities
  • Prepare project specifications and edit corporate electrical master specifications as needed to suit each project
  • Perform conductor sizing, conduit sizing, protective device sizing, lighting, and other electrical calculations under the supervision of a registered professional engineer
  • Coordinate with civil, process-mechanical, structural, architectural, HVAC, and instrumentation disciplines to ensure a well-integrated project
  • Perform site visits as needed from project conceptual design through construction
  • Perform electrical design work in AutoCAD and/or Revit as required by the project
  • Perform electrical power system studies in SKM and/or ETAP as required by the project
  • Complete construction administration tasks including review of shop drawings, replies to requests for information, change order requests and similar tasks
  • Support lead electrical engineer(s) to perform factory witness testing of electrical equipment as required by the project

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology
  • 0-2 years of relevant experience in heavy industrial Electrical Engineering and Design
  • Experience in Microsoft Office products
  • Good communication skills allowing for interaction with clients, contractors, and other engineers
  • Ability to obtain Engineer in Training (EIT) certification within 2 years of the start of employment

Preferred Qualifications:

  • EIT certification
  • Experience in a consulting engineering environment
  • Experience with SKM or ETAP power system software
  • Experience with AutoCAD and/or Revit BIM software
  • Basic understanding of the NEC

What We Offer:

  • Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans)
  • Pre-tax flexible spending plans for medical, dependent care, and transportation
  • Short and long-term disability, and employer paid life insurance
  • Paid holidays, floating holidays, and paid time off (PTO)
  • Employer-contributed 401(k) plan and additional financial planning support
  • Professional growth opportunities, including tuition reimbursement, in-house training, and incentives for professional registration and professional organization memberships
  • Starting pay range for this position depends on skills, experience, education and geographical location

#li-hybrid


HAZEN AND SAWYER logo

About HAZEN AND SAWYER

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hazen and Sawyer, headquartered in New York, NY, US, operates within the field of environmental science and engineering. Founded in 1951, the firm specializes in designing drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater facilities, comprehensive solid waste services, and other environmental infrastructure projects. Striving towards nurturing clean, safe water supply, the company upholds it as its primary mission. Their dedication reflects in their numerous honors received at the national and regional levels, including awards from the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Council of Engineering Companies, and Water Environment Federation.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1951