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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Ascent Buildings, LLC

Be Seen First

Design Engineer, Estimator, Drafter, Detailer

Cullman, AL · On-site

Design Engineers * Estimators * Detailers * Checkers * Drafters * Manufacturing Engineer at ... Associates degree in drafting or engineering technology is preferred for detailers and checkers ...

Thompson Engineering

Engineering Associate

Mobile, AL · On-site

The Engineering Associate will support the planning, design, and delivery of projects across a variety of disciplines, including site civil, transportation, water resources, hydrology and hydraulics ...

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All JobsAssociate Design Engineer JobsAssociate Design Engineer Jobs in Alabama

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 Jul 12, 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.

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 collaboration, technical documentation, and supporting design development processes.

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 $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in leadership or specialized roles. High salaries are typically associated with roles requiring advanced certifications, management responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, especially in industries with high demand for technical expertise.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineering professionals such as senior petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, or specialized software engineers in leadership roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and working in high-paying industries or executive positions.
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 are popular job titles related to Associate Design Engineer jobs in Alabama? For Associate Design Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Design Engineer jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Associate 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:
Associate Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Alabama as of July 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.
Lead Mechanical Design Engineer

Lead Mechanical Design Engineer

Invariant Corporation

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$101K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Lead Mechanical Design Engineer

26-048

Invariant Corporation is seeking a detail-oriented Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to support advanced weapon system components for C-UxS, Javelin programs and IR&D projects. The ideal candidate will contribute to the design, development, and documentation of mechanical systems and components for defense-related applications. This role requires collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams and adherence to strict regulatory and quality standards.

Duties Include:

  • Lead the design and development of mechanical subsystems for weapons platforms, including structures, housings, actuators, mechanisms, and more.
  • Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks).
  • Contribute to long-term technology insertion and mechanical design innovation across the product line.
  • Develop mechanical designs for assemblies, components, and systems in support of DoW projects.
  • Generate and maintain engineering documentation, including drawings, BOMs, and design reports.
  • Collaborate with engineers, manufacturing teams, and program managers to ensure design feasibility and compliance.
  • Apply GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) standards to technical drawings.
  • Support prototype development, testing, and design validation efforts.
  • Ensure designs meet ASME Y14 and MIL-STD requirements, safety requirements, and quality guidelines.
  • Participate in design reviews and implement feedback and revisions.
  • Manage configuration control and document revisions.
  • Guide material selection and manufacturing processes to ensure performance in extreme conditions, including high shock, vibration, and thermal environments (MIL-STD-810).
  • Support root cause investigations of hardware failures, develop corrective actions, and ensure lessons learned are applied program-wide.
  • Collaborate with systems engineering, integration & test, and manufacturing teams to ensure requirements are met and products are production-ready.

Requirements:

  • Associates or Bachelors degree in Mechanical Design, or related field.
  • 12+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in defense, government contracting or aerospace industries.
  • Experience with GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
  • Experience using Solidworks CAD for mechanical design and FEA.
  • Strong Configuration Management (CM) background.
  • Minimum Active Secret Clearance.
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship is a requirement for positions requiring a Security Clearance.
  • Current Passport.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with AS9100 process implementation.
  • Familiarity with MIL-STD requirements and defense industry compliance standards.
  • Experience of being a Product Lifecyle Manager (PLM) administrator.
  • Knowledge of fabrication methods including machining, sheet metal, DFM, and additive manufacturing.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Work Environment:

  • Office, Lab, Shop, and field environment.
  • Sitting for extended periods of time at desk, in telecoms/meetings with peers, management.
  • Lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to use stairs for access between floors and multiple buildings at customer worksites and Invariant facilities during travel.

This position is expected to be performed only in the state of Alabama.

Subject to the provisions of Code of Alabama 40-18-370, the Company shall give good faith consideration to Alabama residents for employment at the Project.

Invariant Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Invariant is a drug-free workplace.

Company Description

Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, Invariant is a 100% employee owned, non-traditional defense contractor providing advanced engineering solutions to support national defense, homeland security, and law enforcement. We are ISO 9001 certified with secure facilities, labs, and high bay space performing advanced manufacturing, integration, assembly, and testing of mission critical systems. Join a team where innovation fuels impact. At Invariant, every voice contributes, and every employee-owner shares in the success of our mission to protect those who protect us. We’re home to engineers, developers, and specialists—web builders of mission-critical systems, united by purpose and driven by pride. As a 100% employee-owned company, your work doesn’t just power national defense—it helps power your future. Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore our current openings and discover how you can make a lasting impact while building ownership in everything you help create.