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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Distribution Engineer

Portsmouth, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Coventry, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Wakefield, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Bristol, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Barrington, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Hope Valley, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Jamestown, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Pawtucket, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Westerly, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

Distribution Engineer

Cumberland, RI · Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground ... Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer : BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Design Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$40.6K

$80.9K

$129.3K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Rhode Island is $80,927.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $93,000.00 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Design Engineer jobs in Rhode Island? For Associate Design Engineer jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:
Distribution Engineer

Distribution Engineer

Leidos

Portsmouth, RI • Hybrid

$50K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 451 rated business services


Job description

Leidos is seeking Distribution Engineers for our Rhode Island workload. This will be a fully remote position after a period of full time in office training. The candidate will be expected to be in office once a month.

The successful candidate will have an interest in developing construction work packages for the electric distribution system using various software systems and construction standards. Distribution systems may be in an OH, UG, or URD environment.

Project work may include joint use make ready, and storm hardening projects. Work packages will be developed using Electric Facilities Database (EFD), , Automated Utility Design (AUD), Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools, Work Management Systems (WMS), and other client systems. Project work will require performing engineering calculations that may include: structural analysis of poles, guying, cable pulling, electric demand, fault currents, and coordination of protective devices.

Assignments may also include: preparing forestry trimming requests, facilitating permit and Right-of-Way acquisition, development of a BOM, estimating costs, and customer advocacy such as acquiring easements or calculating a customer Contribution in Aid of Construction (CIAC).

Distribution Designer Responsibilities:

  • Design and construction work package development of electrical overhead and underground distribution systems (operating from 4kV through 15kV), mostly associated with programmatic work such as overloaded transformers, inspection and maintenance, joint use, and inspection reports.
  • Comply with quality control and safe work practices and maintain compliance with project scope, schedule and budget.

Distribution Designer Required Education & Experience:

  • Level 1 - Associate Distribution Designer: BS degree with 0-1 years of experience or BA or AS degree with 2 years relevant experience or HS diploma + 6 years of experience
  • Level 2 - Distribution Designer: BS degree + 2 years relevant experience OR BA degree or AS degree + 4 years relevant experience OR MS degree + 2 years relevant experience OR HS diploma + 8 years relevant experience

Distribution Designer Requirements for all levels:

  • Experience with ESRI, AutoCAD and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a plus
  • Familiarity with Pole Loading software ( O-Calc, SPIDA Calc, Pole Foreman) and SAP
  • Proven ability to communicate with clients and project teams
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience with projects in distribution design: using medium voltage switchgear, voltage conversion projects, distribution automation projects
  • Experience with development of civil & electrical packages associated with complex cable/conduit in dense urban environments

No two career paths will ever look the same. AtLeidos,we know the most talented and diverse engineering professionals will always have a multitude of career choices; your time at Leidos will be a wise investment in your career and in yourself.

Protect yourself and your family with thebenefitsof working for a world-class employer.When you join Leidos,you join a Fortune 500 company and one of Ethisphere Institute's "World's Most Ethical Companies."

Successful candidates can look forward to a fast paced, diverse work environment and flexible work hours/work arrangements as well as managers who will encourage career development and growth including:

  • Engineer in Training Certificate (EIT)
  • Professional Engineer License (PE)
  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
  • Leadership training
  • Management opportunities

In this role, you can also expect to gain experience / expertise in:

  • NESC
  • Structural Pole Modeling
  • Electrical Power Calculations
  • GIS design
  • Project management
  • Financial management

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:May 26, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $50,700.00 - $91,650.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


What Leidos employees say

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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