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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer / CAD Designer-Drafter This role focuses on transforming engineering ... Associate's degree in CAD Design or a related field preferred. * Equivalent relevant experience may ...

New

Principals and associates representing many disciplines work one-on-one with clients. Close, personal service is the hallmark of GRW's business philosophy. As an electrical design engineer, you will ...

Associate degree in CAD or equivalent hands-on experience (2-5 years) * Experience with CNC programming and CAM tools (WorkNC, NX, or similar) * Strong blueprint and print-reading skills

CAD Technician

Fort Mitchell, KY · On-site

$31.28/hr

Associate's degree, technical certification, or equivalent experience in CAD, Engineering Technology, or a related field * Working knowledge of SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar CAD software

Associate's degree, technical certification, or equivalent experience in CAD, Engineering Technology, or a related field * Working knowledge of SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar CAD software

Position Summary The CAD Design Coordinator/Checker will perform complete and thorough checking of ... engineering related field. Associates degree or more is preferred. Demonstrated knowledge and ...

... engineering related field. Associates degree or more is preferred. Demonstrated knowledge and ... Five (5) years CAD design experience (HRSG CAD design or similar preferred) * Experience with ...

Associate degree or higher in CAD, Engineering Technology, Drafting, or related field (or equivalent experience). * 5 to 10 years of experience using CAD platforms in a professional environment.

Responsibilities Associate / Engineer General * Perform engineering tasks individually and with a team of other designers and engineers to produce technical deliverables. * Comprehend design ...

$110 - $140/hr

... design associates, building a best-in-class team. * Oversee design practices across the company, setting and upholding the standard for luxury kitchen and bath design. * Lead the engineering ...

New

Project Design Lead

Louisville, KY · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

High school diploma with engineering-related coursework or an Associate's Degree in Engineering ... Ten (10)+ years of CAD design experience in an industrial, power generation, boiler, pressure ...

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Associate Design Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$36K

$71.8K

$114.6K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Kentucky is $71,772.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,900.00 and $82,500.00 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?

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Kentucky?

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

What are popular job titles related to Associate Design Engineer jobs in Kentucky?

For Associate Design Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,772 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Actalent

Louisville, KY

$30 - $43/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer / CAD Designer-DrafterJob Description

This role focuses on transforming engineering concepts, redlined drawings, and standard product designs into precise custom production documentation using 2D and 3D CAD tools. You will support the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of electro-mechanical equipment designs while collaborating closely with engineering and manufacturing teams in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities
  • Create and modify detailed 2D drawings and 3D models based on engineering direction, redlined prints, and standard product designs.
  • Develop custom parts and assemblies, ensuring designs meet functional, manufacturability, and quality requirements.
  • Produce accurate production drawings that support fabrication, assembly, and installation of electro-mechanical equipment.
  • Create and update bills of materials (BOMs) within the ERP system to reflect current designs and revisions.
  • Maintain accurate design documentation, including drawing files, models, and revision histories.
  • Ensure all work complies with established drafting and design standards and aligns with company procedures.
  • Collaborate with engineers, manufacturing, and other team members to resolve design issues and implement improvements.
  • Use SolidWorks and DraftSight/AutoCAD daily to generate, revise, and manage drawings and models.
  • Leverage SolidWorks PDM to store, control, and track design data and revisions.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives by suggesting design enhancements and more efficient drafting practices.
  • Manage multiple design projects and tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines and project milestones.
Essential Skills
  • 3–5 years of CAD design experience in a manufacturing or product design environment.
  • Hands-on experience designing electro-mechanical products or capital equipment.
  • Proficiency in 2D drafting, including layout drawings and pneumatic schematics.
  • Proficiency in 3D modeling, assemblies, and detail drawings.
  • Strong working knowledge of SolidWorks for 3D modeling and drafting.
  • Experience using DraftSight and/or AutoCAD for 2D drafting.
  • Experience with SolidWorks PDM for managing design data and revisions.
  • Ability to create and update bills of materials (BOMs) within an ERP system.
  • Strong problem-solving skills applied to mechanical and electro-mechanical design challenges.
  • Effective organizational skills to manage multiple concurrent projects.
  • Strong communication and teamwork abilities to collaborate across functions.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Associate’s degree in CAD Design or a related field preferred.
  • Equivalent relevant experience may substitute for formal education.
  • Experience with Autodesk Inventor and Vault is a plus.
  • SOLIDWORKS certification is a plus.
  • Experience with machine design and general mechanical design principles.
  • Familiarity with drafting standards and best practices.
  • Comfort working within a culture focused on continuous improvement and employee involvement.
Work Environment

This is an onsite role in a clean, air-conditioned manufacturing and engineering environment. You will work with modern CAD tools such as SolidWorks, DraftSight/AutoCAD, and potentially Autodesk Inventor and Vault, as well as SolidWorks PDM and an ERP system for BOM management. The position is structured as a 6–9 month contract with the potential to transition to a direct role based on business needs and performance. The organization emphasizes a people-first culture, strong employee involvement, and a commitment to continuous improvement, offering a professional setting where you can grow your skills and contribute to high-quality electro-mechanical equipment design.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Jeffersontown, KY.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $43.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Jeffersontown,KY.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 26, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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