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Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Raleigh, NC office. Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional ...

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Raleigh, NC office. Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional ...

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Raleigh, NC office. Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional ...

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Denver, CO office. Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional ...

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Fairfax, VA office. Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional ...

We are looking for an entry-level or early career Mechanical Engineer with strong technical skills ... Aerospace & Defense Mechanical Design * Factory Automation (material handling, web handling ...

$76 - $92/hr

We are looking for an entry-level or early career Mechanical Engineer with strong technical skills ... Aerospace & Defense Mechanical Design * Factory Automation (material handling, web handling ...

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Denver, CO office. Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional ...

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Fairfax, VA office. Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional ...

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$50 - $56/hr

Mechanical Engineer Location: Onsite - Irvine, CA Shift: 1st Shift US Citizenship Required About ... and defense applications. This role involves hands-on engineering work, design reviews ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Defense Mechanical Engineer information

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$17

$33

$54

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

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

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, 1% Contract, and 2% 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.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Salas O'Brien

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer
At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That's why we're committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.
Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career-and they'll receive great total rewards along the way.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.
Job Summary:
The Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer will work in a fast-paced multi-discipline team environment. Our Mechanical Engineers are responsible for designing building HVAC and producing construction documentation Residential, Higher Education, Commercial, Science and Technology, and Federal Facilities. This position is offered in a hybrid work environment, with a combination of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Read and understand construction documents including drawings, floor plans, specifications, and equipment details.
  • Develop HVAC system designs of a given project based on scope of work and/or client RFPs while supporting project development from concept design through construction.
  • Provide engineering design, evaluation, and planning of mechanical systems for a variety of market types.
  • Perform heating and cooling load calculations and energy analysis with software such as Trace 700 or similar programs.
  • Conduct building surveys and documentation of existing HVAC systems and site conditions.
  • Provide construction support through reviewing equipment submittals, responding to contractor questions, and issuing reviews and reports.
  • Write and edit project specifications, narratives, reports, and other technical documentation.
  • Assist in procuring new work; including developing client relationships and participating in project interviews when required.
  • Perform drawing production and Building Information Modeling (BIM) for mechanical systems.
  • Complete engineering calculations, equipment sizing and selection, system layout, and interdisciplinary coordination.
  • Apply knowledge of building codes and industry standards in the development of mechanical system designs.
  • Attend internal and external meetings to obtain design input information.
  • Communicate effectively in person and in writing with project teams, clients, and contractors to ensure timely sharing of project information.
  • Work independently while collaborating with internal teams and utilizing available resources to develop effective engineering solutions.
  • Support project teams in delivering work products that meet project requirements and quality expectations and assist in resolving project issues.
  • Perform project billable work and engineering responsibilities consistent with expected utilization goals while contributing to successful project delivery.
  • Foster an environment where new ideas are discussed and developed collaboratively to create practical solutions to client challenges.

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • EIT Certification preferred but not required with a willingness to obtain in 1-2 years.
  • You have design experience in the MEP industry.
  • You are knowledgeable in the design of HVAC systems.
  • You have 0 - 2 years of experience in engineering and design.
  • Should have working knowledge of the ASHRAE, ASME, NFPA, and NEC; with a preference for knowledge of IBC, IMC, and IPC requirements.

Skills/Abilities:
  • Efficient in MS Office, Outlook, and engineering calculation software
  • Ability to prioritize tasks effectively in the face of shifting projects and deadlines
  • Good communication skills, combined with organizational skills, the ability to plan, balance and prioritize work
  • Ability to operate Bluebeam Revu, AutoCAD, RevitTMand BIM360 software

Location: New York City
Travel: Limited
Compensation & Benefits:
Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
This role is also eligible for discretionary performance-based bonus and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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