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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Forest City, NC

First Solar

Engineer- Manufacturing I USA

Gaffney, SC · On-site

$68K - $98K/yr

Associate's Degree in an engineering or similar technical discipline combined with * 3 or more ... Design and execute planned process experiments, collect and analyze data and report experimental ...

First Solar

Engineer- Manufacturing I USA

Gaffney, SC · On-site

$68K - $98K/yr

Associate's Degree in an engineering or similar technical discipline combined with * 3 or more ... Design and execute planned process experiments, collect and analyze data and report experimental ...

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All JobsAssociate Design Engineer JobsAssociate Design Engineer Jobs in Forest City, NC

Associate Design Engineer information

See Forest City, NC salary details

$36.2K

$72.2K

$115.3K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Forest City, NC is $72,168.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $83,000.00 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 cities near Forest City, NC are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Forest City, NC with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:

Associate Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Forest City, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,168 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Associate Tooling Engineer

RCM Industries, Inc.

Rutherfordton, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

The Associate Tooling Engineer is responsible for the repair and component replacement of production tooling, and for maintaining the accuracy of all tooling data, records, and revision control within the engineering department. This position requires working knowledge of tooling condition, wear, and standard repair processes, along with strong organizational and data management skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Repairs and Components
  • Manages outside tooling repairs, including preparation of repair scopes of work, collection of vendor quotes, and issuance of purchase orders.
  • Manages component replacements, including sourcing and purchasing of wear components (inserts, cores, sleeves) for existing tooling designs.
  • Supports the tool room in the procurement of perishable tooling components as needed.
  • Provides general technical support to the tool room on routine tooling questions and issues.

Tooling Data and Records
  • Sets up and maintains tooling and tooling configuration records within the ERP system.
  • Generates shot count reports and leads last-shot reviews; issues associated work orders.
  • Maintains inventory records for cores, components, and sleeves.
  • Monitors wear trends and shot history to forecast upcoming tooling replacement needs with adequate lead time for budgeting and vendor scheduling.
  • Prepares tooling budget forecasts to support capital and maintenance planning.
  • Processes system updates required to close out tooling records upon retirement of a tool.

Documentation and Revision Control
  • Maintains the engineering file structure.
  • Maintains revision control of core drawings, sleeve drawings, and die model updates, including updates to CAD models and drawings as changes occur.
  • Supports documentation requirements for APQP and QMS engineering procedures.

Cross-Functional Support
  • Provides cost information in support of repair quotes issued to customers.

Performance Measures
  • Accuracy of tooling records maintained in the ERP system.
  • Timeliness and quality of completed repairs and component replacements.
  • Reduction in unplanned tooling downtime resulting from proactive forecasting.
  • Completeness and accuracy of revision-controlled documentation.

Required:
  • Working knowledge of tool steel types, common wear mechanisms, and failure modes (e.g., thermal fatigue, flash).
  • Ability to learn and operate effectively within database or ERP-style systems.
  • Strong organizational skills with demonstrated attention to detail in record-keeping and documentation.
  • Ability to read and interpret tooling drawings and specifications.

Preferred:
  • Experience with formal revision or engineering change control processes.
  • Working CAD skills (SolidWorks, Creo, or similar) sufficient to perform routine drawing updates.
  • Experience forecasting maintenance or capital needs based on usage data.
  • 2+ year degree in an engineering-related field
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field is preferred

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