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Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$70K - $95K/yr

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 2) / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 3) to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals ...

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Miamisburg, OH ยท On-site

$68K - $92K/yr

POSITION OVERVIEW The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for the mechanical concepts, designs, and project documentation for the automated manufacturing equipment being developed by HAHN ...

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Grafton, WI ยท On-site

$100K - $105K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer Grafton, WI - Direct Hire Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com) is seeking a candidate to be part of our customer's team at their facility in Grafton, WI. As a ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hudson, MA

$80K - $108K/yr

Test Devices by Schenck is seeking to hire a Mechanical Design Engineer! We're seeking a detail-driven Mechanical Design Engineer to bring ideas to life through innovative design and problem-solving.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Lyndhurst, VA

$73K - $99K/yr

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer leads the design of critical refrigeration components and systems for large cold storage warehouses. This role drives the ...

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Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$91.6K

$136.5K

How much do freelance mechanical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance mechanical design engineer in the United States is $91,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance mechanical design engineer do?

As a freelance mechanical design engineer, you perform your duties on a contract basis for clients. Your responsibilities include working with a project manager to understand the scope of the design project and designing a working prototype for tools, hardware, or components for robotic or sensing equipment. You work closely with QA testers and other manufacturing specialists to assess the quality of the project before a company prepares to implement large-scale production. As a freelance design engineer, you need to seek out new work on a regular basis.

What does a freelance mechanical design engineer do?

A Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and tests mechanical systems or components for clients on a project-by-project basis. They use software tools like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) to create detailed drawings and specifications, often working remotely or on contract. Their work can span various industries, including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and consumer products. Freelance engineers are responsible for meeting client requirements, managing project timelines, and often handling their own business operations. This role requires strong technical skills, creativity, and the ability to communicate effectively with clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance mechanical design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, CAD proficiency, and usually a relevant degree or certification. Expertise with design software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or CATIA, along with familiarity with prototyping and simulation tools, is typically required. Strong project management, client communication, and problem-solving skills help you stand out in a competitive freelance market. These competencies are crucial for delivering innovative, precise solutions that meet client specifications and deadlines.

What are some common challenges freelance mechanical design engineers face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Freelance mechanical design engineers often juggle several projects for different clients, which can present challenges in prioritizing deadlines, adapting to varying project requirements, and maintaining clear communication across teams. Effective time management and organizational skills are crucial to ensure deliverables meet each client's standards and timelines. Additionally, freelancers must be proactive in clarifying project scopes, managing revisions, and keeping up-to-date with the latest design tools and industry standards to stay competitive.

What is the difference between Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectFreelance Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsTypically holds relevant engineering degrees; certifications optionalRequires engineering degree; professional licenses may be preferred
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, remote or on-site projects, flexible scheduleEmployed by companies, usually in office or lab settings
Employer & Industry UsageWorks with multiple clients across industries like automotive, aerospace, consumer productsWorks for a single employer, focusing on product development within a specific industry

In summary, Freelance Mechanical Design Engineers operate independently, often juggling multiple clients and projects, offering flexibility. In contrast, Mechanical Design Engineers are typically employed full-time by companies, focusing on in-house product development and design tasks.

What cities are hiring for Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,578 per year, or $44 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Integrity Trade Services

Grand Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site

$85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer
This position is a direct hire opportunity!

Pay: $80k-$85k annually (DOE)
Shift: First Shift (8AM-5PM), Mon-Fri; overtime as needed
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Integrity Trade Services is hiring a Mechanical Design Engineer for our manufacturing client to start immediately at $80k-$85k annually (DOE). Receive comprehensive benefits through our client upon hire!
Responsibilities
  • Design and document products and projects
  • Balance performance, schedule, and cost across each project
  • Ensure technical, quality, and regulatory standards are met
  • Deliver projects within established timelines
  • Adhere to defined budget requirements

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent field
  • Minimum of 2 years of machine design experience
  • At least 2 years using SolidWorks
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of machine design/manufacturing processes
  • Working knowledge of hydraulics and/or pneumatics

Skills
  • SolidWorks for mechanical design and documentation
  • Mechanical engineering principles and standards
  • Product/machine design documentation
  • Manufacturing process understanding
  • Communication skills

Benefits:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • PTO
  • 401k

Why choose Integrity Trade Services?
At ITS, we offer our employees a competitive salary paid weekly and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Interested? Want to Learn More?
Reach out to Melissa Bauza at m.bauza@itsstaffing.com or call 708-321-1266!
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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