1

Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Union, MO · On-site

$68K - $92K/yr

... engineering design and performance specifications * Research, design, evaluate, and oversee ... Associates will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Design Engineer information

See Missouri salary details

$38.9K

$77.5K

$123.8K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Missouri is $77,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,400.00 and $89,100.00 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?

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 Missouri? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,513 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

$28K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

ABOUT YOU

We are looking for a HVAC Engineer to join our growing team in St. Louis (Richmond Heights). You will be responsible for the design and engineering of HVAC and mechanical systems from concept through construction. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem solver who thrives in a  collaborative environment and brings both technical knowledge and a practical mindset to each project. 


WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

We are committed to taking care of our greatest asset – our team. Our best-in-class benefits and superior compensation are what set us apart from the competition and continue to attract top industry talent.

  • Industry-leading performance-based bonus program
  • 100% employer-funded ESOP to all associates
  • Traditional and Roth 401k
  • Tuition reimbursement for associates
  • Scholarship for associates’ children up to $28,000 per child
  • 1-month paid sabbatical after every five years of employment, plus $5,000 for travel
  • 1-week paid volunteer leave each year & 100% charitable match
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
  • 3 weeks of vacation
  • 100% paid 12-week maternity leave

A DAY IN THE LIFE
  • Design HVAC and mechanical systems for commercial and industrial buildings
  • Prepare drawings, specifications, and equipment schedules in Revit and AutoCAD
  • Perform load calculations, equipment selection, and ductwork layouts
  • Coordinate with architects, structural engineers, clients, and subcontractors to integrate MEP systems into overall building design
  • Attend design meetings and construction coordination sessions as needed
  • Assist with code compliance reviews and permitting documentation
  • Manage multiple deadlines and adapt to evolving project scopes

NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 3-8+ years of mechanical design experience in commercial or industrial sectors
  • Design-build project delivery experience is highly preferred
  • Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and mechanical load calculation tools (e.g., Trane Trace, HAP)
  • Strong knowledge of IMC, ASHRAE standards, and relevant energy codes (e.g., Title 24, IECC)

MAKE YOUR MOVE

ARCO is a premier, full-service design-build general contractor with more than 30 years of experience providing clients with complete project delivery nationwide. With over 6,000 projects completed coast to coast, we pride ourselves on offering the best, most cost-effective, single source, turnkey solutions and adding value to every project. Because we believe in creating opportunities for individual success among our associates, ARCO is a 100% associate-owned company. Through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), each associate holds a stake in the company, placing the benefits of our success directly in the hands of those who drive it.

ARCO is consistently recognized as a top workplace in multiple markets nationwide and is ranked by Engineering News-Record as a top ten design-build firm and the largest domestic builder of distribution and warehouse space.

ARCO does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party agencies or individual recruiters without prior approval. from the Talent Acquisition team. Any unsolicited resumes, including those sent directly to hiring managers or other employees, become ARCO property, and no fees will be paid for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. Any candidate information submitted will be considered as a referral to ARCO without a fee. Agencies must have a fully executed vendor agreement with ARCO as well as written approval to submit candidates from the ARCO TA Manager for the specific position before submitting candidates.

#LI-TM2 #LI-Onsite


LEGAL DISCLAIMER

EOE, including disability/vets

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
  • 3-8+ years of mechanical design experience in commercial or industrial sectors
  • Design-build project delivery experience is highly preferred
  • Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and mechanical load calculation tools (e.g., Trane Trace, HAP)
  • Strong knowledge of IMC, ASHRAE standards, and relevant energy codes (e.g., Title 24, IECC)
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

ARCO a Family of Construction logo

About ARCO a Family of Construction

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Established in 1992 as The ARCO Way, this design‑build general contracting firm has grown to 48 regional offices across the U.S., with more than 1,000 associates delivering over $5 billion in construction annually. As one of the nation's top design‑build firms, ARCO specializes in cold‑storage, warehouses, laboratories, multi‑family housing, senior‑care campuses, food & beverage processing, data centers, and controlled‑environment agriculture. Their client base spans coast‑to‑coast repeat relationships in both commercial and specialty sectors.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1992