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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Union, MO

$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 ...

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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 30, 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 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 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.

Bridge Design Engineer (Transportation)

Gladstone, MO

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Build the Bridges That Connect Communities

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is a well-established civil and structural engineering consulting firm known for delivering thoughtful, high-quality solutions to public and private clients. As demand for our transportation and bridge services continues to grow, we are excited to expand our Structures team with a Transportation Bridge Design Engineer based in either of two locations: Gladstone (northern KCMO), or St. Joseph, Missouri office.

This role is ideal for an experienced bridge engineer who enjoys hands-on design work, values collaboration, and wants to play an active role in delivering projects from concept through construction. You’ll work on meaningful bridge projects across Missouri, contribute technical expertise, and build trusted relationships with clients and project partners. If you’re a bridge engineer looking for the chance to make a visible impact, grow your career, and work with a team that values quality and collaboration, we’d love to hear from you.


What You’ll Do

  • Lead and support the analysis, planning, and design of bridge and transportation structure projects
  • Prepare bridge designs, plans, specifications, and technical reports
  • Collaborate closely with clients, DOTs, municipalities, architects, and internal civil engineering teams
  • Support projects through construction, including coordination and problem-solving as needed
  • Contribute to project planning, schedules, budgets, and quality control
  • Help mentor junior staff and support team development (based on experience level)

What We’re Looking For

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis
  • 2+ years of experience designing bridge or transportation structure projects in the U.S.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred (or ability to obtain)
  • Experience demonstrating progressive responsibility and technical growth
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Proven ability to manage priorities and deliver projects on scope, on budget, and on schedule
  • A collaborative, solution-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently when needed

Why Snyder & Associates?

  • Ownership at Snyder & Associates is held by employee shareholders, fostering a culture of accountability and long-term commitment.
  • Unlike firms driven by private equity or absentee investors, we set our own priorities. Success is measured by project results, timely completion and client satisfaction
  • Work on impactful transportation and bridge projects that serve local communities
  • A collaborative consulting environment where technical excellence and relationships matter
  • Opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and project ownership
  • Stable, well-respected firm with a strong regional presence
  • Supportive culture that values teamwork, integrity, and long-term client partnerships

Life At Snyder

Snyder & Associates has grown to become a large regional civil engineering and planning firm in the Midwest. With thirteen office locations in five states, the communities we serve are the same places we proudly call home. For us, it’s about more than just the project at hand. It’s about improving community quality of life, which is why 94 percent of our existing clients continue to trust us as an extension of their staff. Watch the Snyder & Associates About Us Video to learn more. You’ll also find a welcoming, familyoriented atmosphere that encourages connection, celebrates achievements, and offers opportunities to engage with the community and bring engineering to life outside the office, empowering you to grow your career while making a difference in the places we proudly call home.

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Snyder & Associates, Inc. is an E-Verify employer.