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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

This role also collaborates closely with the Sr. Product Engineer and Engineering Manager to ... Associate's degree in CAD Drafting or a related technical discipline with a minimum of one (1) year ...

This role also collaborates closely with the Sr. Product Engineer and Engineering Manager to ... Associate's degree in CAD Drafting or a related technical discipline with a minimum of one (1) year ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Design Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$43.6K

$86.9K

$138.8K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Colorado is $86,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,900.00 and $99,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate design engineer?

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 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 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 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 can I do with an associate design engineer's degree?

An associate design engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles focused on designing, analyzing, and testing products or systems. Graduates can work in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or product development, often using CAD software and engineering principles. Additional certifications or experience may be required for advanced positions.

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

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,893 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Physical Design Engineering Associate

Mesa Associates, Inc.

Denver, CO โ€ข On-site

$69K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

PDS 10 / Power Delivery Substation

This position is not eligible for recruiting or sourcing by outside parties.

Disclaimer: Be cautious and only respond to emails from our “mesainc.com” domain. We will never ask for sensitive information, such as bank account details, SSN, etc., via email. If you receive any communication asking for such information, it is not from Mesa. For any concerns, or to verify the authenticity of a message, please contact us through our official channels.

We’ve got the power to energize Your career and spark YOUR Work/Life Balance through professional development and exceptional benefits. Don’t delay, plug in today for an inclusive meaningful career in power, distribution, transmission, engineering, design, technology, or innovation at Mesa Associates, Inc.

Mesa seeks a Substation Physical Engineering Associate to be responsible for the design of deliverables associated with a high voltage substation. This typically includes, but is not limited to: general arrangement, sectionviews, grounding, conduit layouts, bills of materials, and cable schedules, as well as construction turnover documentation.

  • Must be able to complete assignments within budget and schedule with a high degree of accuracy
  • Must have excellent verbal and written communications skills, and the ability to convey technical knowledge in simple and practical language
  • Works under the direction of Senior Engineers and Project Engineers
  • As a fully competent engineer, independently evaluates, selects and applies engineering principles and practices relevant to the project requirements
  • Works with the Project Engineer and Program Manager to define project objectives, prepare design estimates, and define project requirements and design approaches for large or complex projects.
  • Responsible for determining design approach and working with design team to prepare required design documents (e.g., drawings, specifications, calculations, etc.).
  • Responsible for conceptualizing the initial design approach for a major phase of a large project, or have overall responsibility for the engineering work on a routine project.
  • Performs technical and coordination checking of deliverables and other project documents. Ensures deliverables comply with IEEE and/or client standards and meet applicable design requirements.

Benefits

  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay – 10 Annually
  • Group Medical/Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance (Company Paid)
  • Disability Insurance (Company Paid)
  • 401(K) Retirement Savings Plan
  • 401(K) Matching Contribution
  • Section 125 / Cafeteria Plan
  • Long Term Care Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Fitness Center Reimbursement
  • Annual Performance Bonus
  • 9/80 Work Schedule

Salary Range

$69,264.32-$80,133.11

The expected compensation is a range determined by factors including but not limited to education, experience, and qualifications of the candidate, internal equity, work location, and hiring department’s fiscal resources.

Notice to External Search Firms: Mesa Associates, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Mesa Associates, Inc. Talent Acquisition engages with approved search firms directly for specific hiring needs.