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Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Mechanical Engineer supports the design, analysis, integration, and validation of advanced aerospace and defense systems throughout the product development lifecycle. This role performs ...

... and defense. ATS was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Marietta, GA. Today the Company ... Our team in Cincinnati, OH is seeking an Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer to join our team. This is ...

Mechanical Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$105K - $180K/yr

About Mach Industries Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology ... The Role Mach Industries is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our team in designing ...

About the Role Chariot Defense is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team, reporting to the Powertrain Lead Engineer. In this role, you will ...

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is seeking an Entry-Level Energy Engineer (preferably mechanical) to join our dynamic team. Key Responsibilities: * Work on ...

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is seeking an Entry-Level Energy Engineer (preferably mechanical) to join our dynamic team. Key Responsibilities: * Work on ...

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

... Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the engineering of systems for a variety of projects while working closely with clients, client reps, architects, and MEP engineers in ...

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Our Design Studio team, in our Chicago office is seeking an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer . This role will support the engineering of systems for a variety of projects while working closely with ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$17

$33

$54

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level defense mechanical engineer in the United States is $33.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.92 and $37.50 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.

More about Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,055 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

DESE Research, Inc.

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

DESE is seeking a Mechanical Engineer in Huntsville, AL. The Mechanical Engineer supports the design, analysis, integration, and validation of advanced aerospace and defense systems throughout the product development lifecycle. This role performs engineering analyses and develops mechanical solutions that influence system performance, reliability, and mission success. The engineer will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support hardware development from concept through design, qualification, manufacturing, testing, and production.The ideal candidate possesses experience in mechanical design, structural analysis, thermal analysis, dynamics, or related engineering disciplines and enjoys solving complex technical challenges in a collaborative environment.ResponsibilitiesSupport the design, development, analysis, and integration of aerospace and defense hardware throughout the product lifecycle.Perform mechanical engineering analyses including structural, thermal, dynamic, vibration, shock, and other engineering evaluations as required.Develop analytical and simulation models to evaluate system performance under operational and environmental loading conditions.Conduct engineering trade studies and provide technical recommendations to optimize performance, reliability, manufacturability, and cost.Develop and evaluate finite element models to support structural and thermal analyses.Support mechanical design activities including component development, packaging, mechanisms, and hardware integration.Collaborate with systems, structural, manufacturing, electrical, software, and test engineering teams to support integrated product development.Utilize industry-standard engineering tools to perform analyses, support design decisions, and validate system performance.Develop automation scripts and data processing tools using MATLAB, Python, or equivalent programming languages.Prepare technical reports, engineering documentation, presentations, and customer deliverables supporting design reviews and program milestones.Support prototype development, system integration, environmental testing, qualification, verification, and correlation of analytical models with test data.Investigate engineering anomalies and support root cause and corrective action efforts.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.2+ years of experience supporting mechanical engineering, structural analysis, thermal analysis, product development, or related engineering activities.Experience performing engineering analyses using finite element methods, thermal modeling, dynamics, or other analytical techniques.Experience using one or more engineering software packages such as ANSYS, NX/Simcenter, NASTRAN, Thermal Desktop, SINDA, MSC ADAMS, LS-DYNA, or equivalent.Experience with CAD software such as Siemens NX, Creo, SolidWorks, or equivalent.Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals including mechanics of materials, heat transfer, dynamics, structural analysis, or thermodynamics.Experience with MATLAB, Python, or equivalent programming languages for engineering analysis and automation.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary engineering team.Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Security Clearance; U.S. Citizenship is required.Preferred QualificationsExperience supporting aerospace, missile, defense, or space programs.Experience with mechanical hardware design and product development.Experience correlating analytical models with structural, thermal, vibration, or environmental test data.Familiarity with qualification, environmental, vibration, thermal vacuum, or flight testing.Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) or digital engineering environments.Knowledge of military, aerospace, and industry engineering standards.Experience supporting hardware from concept through production.About DESEFor the past 43 years, DESE has provided industry-leading technical and engineering solutions in the fields of Defense, Energy, Space, and Environment. As a small, family-oriented business, DESE provides a compelling benefits package including a generous profit-sharing plan, competitive salaries, and perhaps most importantly, the opportunity to work alongside talented professionals leveraging cutting-edge technologies to solve complex and engaging problems.Why employees love working for DESE:At DESE, we are committed to creating a company that is known for its respect and care for employees. We understand that happy employees are what keeps our business going and we strive to provide the best opportunities for each individual working on our team! Here are a few reasons you will love working here:· Competitive health, dental and vision insurance with affordable premiums· Flexible work schedules· Two different flexible spending account options· Company paid life insurance with options for employee paid additional· Performance bonus program· Education reimbursement program· Company paid personal leave for approved philanthropic activities· Vacation, Sick & Holiday leave· Robust 401k profit sharing plan· Opportunities for internal promotions· Employee referral incentive program· Rewards and gifts for service anniversariesDisability Accommodation for Applicants - DESE Research, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in its job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you may use the following alternative email address or phone number to contact us about your interest in employment with us: hrandsecurity@dese.com or 256-837-8004x123.
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