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Freelance Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Tulsa, OK ยท On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Tulsa, OK Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $100,000.00 - $125,000.00 Contractor Work Model: Onsite Hours: 40.0 Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking 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 - Custom Automation Equipment Koch Finishing Systems | Caledonia, MI (Grand Rapids Area) | Full-Time Koch Finishing Systems is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Bellevue, Washington Type: Contract Compensation: $52 - $85 hourly Contractor Work Model: Hybrid System One is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support the ...

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 ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hudson, MA ยท On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Description 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 ...

Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join an engineering and product development team supporting the design, development, and release of new products. This role ...

Showing results 41-60

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 17, 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

Leonardo Electronics US Inc

Tucson, AZ โ€ข On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Advance Your Impact: Mechanical Design Engineer II

Are you a results-driven Mechanical Design Engineer ready to take on more significant challenges and drive innovation? Do you excel in a hands-on environment where your designs come to life? Leonardo is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer II to join our dynamic team and play a critical role in the development of next-generation diode lasers and systems. Availability of this position is dependent upon final contract award.

This isn't a role where you'll just be executing tasks. You'll be actively owning and contributing to your portion of the design and development lifecycle, spending approximately 50% of your time immersed in hands-on development in our advanced cleanroom and laboratory facilities. We're looking for someone eager to translate complex technical requirements into tangible, high-performance solutions, from initial concept refinement through rigorous prototype testing and ultimately delivery and installation.

As a Mechanical Design Engineer II, you'll be instrumental in shaping product designs from early stages to successful delivery. This highly collaborative position requires you to interface directly with internal engineering teams, our program managers, and external vendors, ensuring that designs are both innovative and manufacturable. You will also have the opportunity to guide technicians and manufacturing personnel, sharing your growing expertise and contributing to project success.


What You'll Contribute:

  • Core Design & Analysis: Perform mechanical product design, analysis, and development, focusing on components and assemblies such as:
    • Heatsinks and Heat Exchangers for optimal thermal performance.
    • Design and detail Optomechanical Medical, Military, Scientific, and Commercial grade assemblies, ensuring precision and robustness.
    • Design and develop laser diode packages and assemblies, including designing and testing tooling.
    • Elements of Direct Diode Laser Sources, Fiber Coupled Laser Systems, and supporting Tooling and Test System Design.
  • Apply sound engineering principles and creative thinking to solve technical challenges.
  • Utilize SolidWorks for 3D and 2D CAD design and detailing, adhering to ANSI Y14.5M standards and GD&T.
  • Generate Bills of Materials, lifecycle documentation, and support the creation of work instructions.
  • Use tools like ANSYS to validate designs against requirements.
  • Project Execution: Work closely with Program Managers to manage design and build outcomes within assigned scope and budget. Assist Product Engineers in transferring designs to production.
  • Prepare and present clear and effective analysis results and design reviews to internal teams.
  • Engage in hands-on prototype assembly and debugging, collaborating with technicians and engineers from various disciplines. Your hands-on work will include:
    • Assisting with solder reflow processes and micro component assembly tooling.
    • Designing, assembling, and operating laser test systems.
    • Developing or selecting pump systems and chillers for laser cooling systems.
    • Support prototype testing and validation.
  • Create and organize essential design documentation (BOMs, test criteria, equipment plans)
  • Contribute to research and development efforts aimed at improving the performance, reliability, and efficiency of laser systems.


What You Need:

  • A Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an ABET accredited four-year college or university.
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in a related engineering field with similar design and development duties.
  • Demonstrated experience with hands-on development and prototype builds, comfortable working in a cleanroom environment up to 50% of the time, desk jockeys need not apply.
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks for mechanical design and detailing.
  • Experience with FEA particularly related to thermal and fluid flow is a plus.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing precision mechanical components from various metals and ceramics.
  • A desire to contribute to product development from concept through to completion.

Leonardo offers a fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding environment in a high-tech industry. We are a company of innovators and executors dedicated to delivering the best solutions for our customers. If you're a motivated Mechanical Design Engineer ready to expand your skills and make a real impact, we encourage you to apply.


[NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.]

Leonardo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Here are the hiring process steps and what you can expect from us:

Step 1: Application Review:

Upon submitting your application, it is made available to the recruitment team to review and ensure you meet the basic qualifications.

Step 2: Interview:

If you have been identified to move forward in the process, you may be invited to participate in a one-on-one or panel interview. The interview format can be a phone call, in-person, or virtual meeting.

Step 3: Offer:

If you reach this stage of the interview process, congratulations! You will be provided an offer to join the Leonardo Electronics US Inc. team. The offer will include details about your salary, benefits package and start date.