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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Thermal Design Engineer

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site +1

$130K - $179K/yr

Design Engineer - Passive Thermal Systems - 12+ months Mid-Level | Aerospace & Defense *This job is ... At MORI Associates, we partner with some of the most visionary and mission-critical organizations ...

Product Design Engineer

Trussville, AL ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Associate degree in Engineering Technology, CAD, Mechanical Design, or related field preferred. * Experience with 3D CAD software required. * Experience creating detailed drawings, assemblies, and ...

Associate degree in Engineering Technology, CAD, Mechanical Design, or related field preferred. * Experience with 3D CAD software required. * Experience creating detailed drawings, assemblies, and ...

Product Design Engineer

Trussville, AL ยท On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Associate degree in engineering or CAD discipline. Required Design Software Skill/Experience: * 3D design software experience required. PTC Creo with detail drawing, large assemblies, part generation ...

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Associate Design Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$37.6K

$74.9K

$119.6K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Alabama is $74,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,400.00 and $86,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Design Engineer vs Design Engineer?

AspectAssociate Design EngineerDesign Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, supporting senior engineersLead or independent projects, more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace industriesUsed across similar industries, often with more complex tasks

The Associate Design Engineer typically holds an entry-level position supporting design tasks, while the Design Engineer has more experience and responsibility in leading projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Design Engineer often has additional certifications and a broader scope of work.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Associate Design Engineers and other engineering roles often value skills, experience, and continuous learning over age. Many engineers start or transition into the field later in life, and acquiring relevant certifications or degrees can help regardless of age. Age is generally not a barrier to entering engineering careers if the individual has the necessary skills and motivation.

What is an associate design engineer?

An associate design engineer is an entry-level engineering professional involved in designing products, systems, or components under the supervision of senior engineers. They typically use CAD software, have a foundational understanding of engineering principles, and may hold a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. This role often involves supporting design development, testing, and documentation tasks within engineering teams.

What are Associate Design Engineers?

Associate Design Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the development, planning, and creation of new products or systems. They work under the supervision of senior engineers, contributing to drafting designs, creating prototypes, and conducting tests to ensure functionality and quality. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documentation, using CAD software, and collaborating with other departments to ensure design specifications are met. This role provides foundational experience for a career in engineering design.

What are some common challenges faced by Associate Design Engineers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Associate Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new design software, understanding project specifications, and effectively communicating with cross-functional teams. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the technical complexity of projects or the pace of deliverables. To overcome these hurdles, new engineers should take advantage of mentorship opportunities, actively seek feedback, and participate in collaborative meetings to build confidence and technical proficiency. Regularly reviewing documentation and engaging with more experienced colleagues can also help accelerate learning and integration into the team.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Design Engineer, you need a solid foundation in engineering principles, CAD design, and a relevant engineering degree such as mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit) and knowledge of relevant codes or certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and attention to detail set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for creating accurate, efficient designs and collaborating effectively with teams to deliver successful engineering projects.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Alabama as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,900 per year, or $36 per hour.
Thermal Design Engineer

Thermal Design Engineer

Mori Associates

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site, Remote

$130K - $179K/yr

Temporary

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Design Engineer - Passive Thermal Systems - 12+ months
Mid-Level | Aerospace & Defense
*This job is fully remote from anywhere in the United States*
Duration of this position is expected to be at least 12 months. Must be a Green Card holder or US Citizen.
At MORI Associates, we partner with some of the most visionary and mission-critical organizations in the world-including NASA, JPL, DoD, and leading science and technology innovators. Since 1997, our mid-sized, nationwide team has been driven by a shared belief: agile, passionate, forward-thinking professionals can meaningfully advance the future of science and technology for the benefit of life on Earth and beyond.
We provide a full spectrum of high-impact services, from strategic consulting to sophisticated engineering and information systems solutions. If you're looking to apply your technical expertise to projects that push scientific boundaries and shape the future of space exploration, MORI Associates is where your next chapter begins.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Mid-Level Design Engineer with in-depth CREO knowledge to support passive thermal systems on cutting-edge aerospace programs. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, modeling, and documentation of passive thermal insulation systems, including Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI), cryogenic MLI (cryo-MLI), and Spray-On Foam Insulation (SOFI). You will work cross-functionally with thermal and structures engineering teams and interface directly with program stakeholders to deliver high-quality, review-ready drawings and documentation that meet program requirements. Experience with thermal systems is strongly preferred; candidates with a strong general design and drafting background and a willingness to develop thermal domain knowledge will also be considered.
3D & 2D Thermal Insulation Design and Modeling
- Develop complete 3D and 2D models and engineering drawings for passive thermal insulation systems using CREO
- Produce drawings in .CATDrawing or .drw file formats in accordance with program standards
- Support design of MLI blanket flat patterns, layup stackups, and installation details for cylindrical and complex geometries
- Support cryo-MLI drawings, including purge provisions, perforated layer callouts, and cryogenic material specifications
- Support SOFI drawings, including coverage maps, thickness callouts by zone, ramp and transition geometry, and application sequence details
- Ensure all models and drawings are fully complete and ready for peer review and final approval prior to submission
- Incorporate review feedback and manage drawing revisions
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience in lieu of degree)
- 3-8 years of experience in engineering design or drafting within aerospace, defense, or a related industry
- Proficiency in CREO for 3D modeling and 2D drawing creation
- Experience producing engineering drawings in .drw format
- Demonstrated ability to develop and document engineering requirements
Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience with passive thermal insulation systems, including MLI, cryo-MLI, or SOFI design and documentation
- Experience working on programs with NASA, commercial space, DoD space, or other space/launch vehicle customers
- Familiarity with cryogenic propellant system design and associated purge/vent requirements
- Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing and assembly processes relevant to thermal protection systems
- Experience with WindChill PLM
- Familiarity with design review processes and requirements management frameworks
- Experience working in an ITAR-controlled environment
Salary Range (based on experience/how assessed):
Mechanical Design Engineer 2 - $130,000 to $149.000/year
Mechanical Design Engineer 3 - $150,000 to $179.000/year
Work Environment
This position may require on-site presence at customers or manufacturing facilities. Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain any necessary facility access credentials. Some travel may be required.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.