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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

$123K - $169K/yr

As an ASIC & FPGA Associate Engineering Manager , you will lead and manage a team of ASIC/FPGA design and verification engineers in executing design services for programs in the integration and test ...

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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 Jul 10, 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 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 Colorado? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Design Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Associate 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:

Design Mechanical Engineer - Life Sciences

Gahagan & Bryant Associates Inc.

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job: Design Mechanical Engineer - Life Sciences
Location: Broomfield, CO
Build Your Future with GBA
GBA, a full-service architectural and engineering firm, is seeking a Design Mechanical Engineer to join our Life Sciences group. We specialize in biopharmaceutical facility design and deliver integrated solutions for leading industry clients. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-impact projects from concept through completion in a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.
As a Design Mechanical Engineer, you will apply your building systems design experience and developing knowledge of regulated facility requirements to produce high-quality mechanical engineering deliverables. You'll work within multidisciplinary project teams, coordinate across disciplines, contribute to design calculations and documentation, and begin to take ownership of project scopes under the guidance of senior engineers.
What You'll Do
  • Design HVAC, plumbing, and process utility systems for complex biopharma and biotech manufacturing facilities, including cleanroom environments
  • Develop and coordinate mechanical drawings, specifications, and calculations for project deliverables
  • Prepare design documentation including basis-of-design narratives, equipment schedules, and utility summaries
  • Coordinate with architects, process engineers, and other disciplines to deliver integrated building solutions that respond to client spatial, functional, and budgetary needs
  • Perform design calculations and equipment selections under the direction of senior engineers; support review of work by junior team members
  • Write technical specifications and support compliance with applicable codes, standards, and regulatory requirements
  • Support construction administration activities including field reviews, RFI responses, and submittal reviews
  • Manage and coordinate mechanical scope on multiple concurrent projects within defined schedule and budget parameters
  • Contribute to internal quality processes and mentor entry-level staff
What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Architectural Engineering
  • 3-5 years of relevant mechanical engineering experience in building systems or facility design, with preference for biopharmaceutical, biotech or, industrial facility experience
  • EIT certification preferred; active PE license preferred or in active pursuit
  • Working knowledge of HVAC design, utility systems, process piping, equipment selection, and applicable code compliance
  • Proficiency in Revit preferred, Microsoft word and excel, Bluebeam Revu, Carrier HAP
  • Solid design calculation skills, attention to detail, and ability to work through complex building systems problems
  • Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to coordinate effectively across disciplines and with clients
  • Demonstrated success working in collaborative, multidisciplinary team environments
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously, meet deadlines, and work within budget constraints
Travel
  • This position requires occasional overnight travel with weekend trips home.
Why You'll Love Working Here
At GBA, you'll be part of a team that values integrity, safety, and innovation. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family, including:
  • Competitive salary: $85,000 - $105,000/year
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life, accident, and disability coverage
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness initiatives
  • Paid company holidays, floating holidays, and flexible time off
  • Opportunities for training, professional growth, and advancement
Join Our Team
If you're a motivated mechanical professional who takes pride in delivering safe, high-quality work, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and build your future with GBA.
At GBA, we are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer promoting diversity in our workforce by including all individuals regardless of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, veteran status, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law.