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Mechanical Engineer Contractor Jobs in Portland, OR

Total Mechanical, Inc.

Project Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

... than a mechanical contractor-we're a trusted partner on some of the Pacific Northwest's most ... The Construction Project Engineer supports the planning, coordination, and execution of mechanical ...

HoSt Bio-energy Systems

Electrical Engineer

Vancouver, WA · Hybrid

$90K - $130K/yr

... mechanical designs and translating them into efficient electrical systems. You thrive in an office environment but are also at ease communicating with contractors in the field. Whether working on ...

Stantec

Civil Engineer, Conveyance

Portland, OR · On-site

Evaluate, select, and specify civil and mechanical engineered systems or products for projects ... contractors, and vendors. * Participate and/or lead value engineering approaches and project ...

Flux

Engineering Consultant

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K/yr

Provide engineering guidance to developers, architects, engineers, and contractors on utility infrastructure and mechanical system applications. * Perform technical analysis and research to support ...

AllSTEM Connections

Mechanical Designer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

... engineering teams and external contractors. Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Protected Veterans The Know Your Rights poster is available here: The pay transparency policy is available here:

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMechanical Engineer Contractor JobsMechanical Engineer Contractor Jobs in Portland, OR

Mechanical Engineer Contractor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$48.3K

$109.1K

$176.6K

How much do mechanical engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer contractor in Portland, OR is $109,103.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,400.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical engineer contractor?

Mechanical Engineer Contractors are professionals who provide specialized engineering services on a contract basis rather than as permanent employees. They design, develop, and oversee the installation and maintenance of mechanical systems in various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, or energy. Contractors are typically hired for specific projects or to address temporary skill gaps within an organization. Their work may include tasks like equipment design, HVAC system planning, or process optimization. Mechanical Engineer Contractors must possess strong technical skills, adaptability, and often need to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineer contractor?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer Contractor, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, project management, and often a relevant engineering degree with professional licensure (such as PE). Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry-specific codes or standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and adaptability set successful contractors apart. These skills ensure projects are completed accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges mechanical engineer contractors face when working on multiple projects concurrently?

Mechanical Engineer Contractors often manage several projects at once, which can present challenges such as balancing competing deadlines, adapting to different client expectations, and quickly familiarizing themselves with diverse industry standards. Strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential for keeping projects on track and ensuring quality deliverables. Additionally, contractors must be adept at quickly building rapport with new teams and stakeholders to facilitate smooth collaboration and project success.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineer Contractor vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineer ContractorMechanical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and relevant certifications; contractors often hold professional engineer (PE) licenses.Requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; licensure may be preferred or required for certain roles.
Work EnvironmentUsually works on temporary projects, often on-site at client locations, with flexible or contract-based employment.Works in permanent positions within companies, engineering firms, or manufacturing environments.
Employer & Industry UsageHired by companies or clients for specific projects; common in consulting, construction, and manufacturing sectors.Employed directly by organizations or firms as full-time staff.

In summary, Mechanical Engineer Contractors are typically hired for temporary, project-based work and often hold specific certifications, while Mechanical Engineers are usually employed full-time within organizations. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ mainly in employment type and work setting.

Can mechanical engineers work as contractors?

Yes, mechanical engineers can work as contractors, often providing specialized engineering services on a project basis. Contract roles may require relevant certifications, technical skills, and the ability to work independently or with a team in various environments. Many contractors work on short-term projects, offering flexibility and expertise to employers without full-time employment commitments.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineer Contractor jobs in Portland, OR?

For Mechanical Engineer Contractor jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Contractor jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Contractor jobs in Portland, OR are:

Mechanical Engineer Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Contractor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,103 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Project Engineer

Harder Mechanical Contractors

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Harder Mechanical is one of the nation’s largest mechanical contractors with an outstanding reputation for working safely, meeting tough schedules, and delivering quality projects. Based in Portland Oregon, we work primarily in the 11-western states with regional offices in Reno, NV; Phoenix, AZ; Concord, CA; and Salt Lake City, UT.
As a Project Engineer, you will be working in one of these market sectors: Commercial Buildings (healthcare, higher education, mission critical, and retail), Advanced Technology (semiconductor manufacturing, renewable energy), or Industrial (pulp and paper manufacturing).
Successful projects do not complete themselves. Our team of curious and passionate people build on Harder's reputation every day through their actions. We offer professional development opportunities, industry-leading benefits, and the chance to work on projects that will change the built environment forever. Find out more at www.harder.com.
We have immediate openings for talented Project Engineers with experience managing construction projects ranging from $250,000 - $15 million or more.
What you’ll be doing:
You will be responsible for planning, scheduling, and executing a specific scope of the project you are assigned to at Harder. You will coordinate with field labor to ensure the work is completed safely, on schedule, and up to Harder Mechanical's quality standards. 
Project Engineers at Harder perform the following daily tasks:

  • Review construction drawings and compile project scope and quantities
  • Resolve engineering issues and constraints through communication with design engineers, owner representatives, and fellow team members
  • Monitor field construction and ensure compliance with construction plans and specifications
  • Engage in work sequence planning
  • Prepare and monitor work packages, including labor and cost estimates
  • Track construction progress and update status weekly
  • Organize project records in an effective document control system
  • Mentor new engineers in their roles, taking responsibility for their training and development
  • Assist the project manager in additional duties as required
  • Estimate future work

What you will need to be successful in this role:

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office & Bluebeam – intermediate skills in Excel
  • Knowledge of mechanical systems, and experience reading mechanical and plumbing drawings
  • Ability to communicate with a broad spectrum of people including suppliers, field crews, designers, and owners
  • Self-starter, motivated and takes initiative
  • Organized and productive
  • Strong time management skills and ability to prioritize tasks on an ongoing basis
  • Relentless commitment to teamwork and client satisfaction
  • Interest in LEAN construction principles
  • Ability to travel to other regions to gain exposure to additional markets and industries
  • Must have valid driver license
  • Mechanical aptitude

Education/Experience:

  • 3-10 years of construction management experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management, Business Management, Mechanical, Industrial, Civil Engineering and/or equivalent experience or education

Benefits

  • Competitive salary
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits – 100% of employee premiums are paid by the company
  • Generous retirement package includes: 10% retirement contribution made by the company and a company match up to 2% of your annual salary
  • Profit sharing
  • Discretionary annual bonus
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Harder University training and development, as well as other paid professional development opportunities
    Team environment that promotes individual growth
HMC reserves the right to perform a drug screening and background check, as may be required, and this offer may be contingent on passing a drug screening and background check
This position is salaried. No recruiters. No phone calls, please.
About Harder
Harder Mechanical Contractors is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local nondiscrimination laws. Our hiring policy reflects and affirms Harder’s commitment to the principles of fair employment. Harder does not discriminate regarding the terms and conditions of employment based on any characteristic protected by federal, state or local nondiscrimination laws.
It is Harder’s policy to maintain a drug and alcohol-free work environment. Employment offers are conditional upon successfully passing a drug and alcohol test, background checks, reference checks, and as required by law, regardless of citizenship or national origin, documented proof of authorization to work in the United States.
 

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