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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in Grand Rapids, MI

OtterBase

CAD Supervisor

Comstock Park, MI · On-site

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology, Mechanical Design, Drafting, or a related technical field. Minimum of 5 years of professional CAD experience in a manufacturing or ...

Bradford White Corporation

CAD Designer

Middleville, MI · On-site

$25.50 - $35.25/hr

The Designer supports the Design, Development, and Sustaining (Product) Engineering effort by ... Bachelor's degree in Product Design or Design Technology and 3+ years of experience or an Associate ...

SpartanNash Company

Ad Design Tech

Byron Center, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

... IT developers to vice presidents of finance; from HR Business Partners to export specialists ... Associate degree (Required) in Graphic Art, Graphic Design, Marketing, Communications or related ...

SpartanNash

Ad Design Tech

Byron Center, MI

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

... IT developers to vice presidents of finance; from HR Business Partners to export specialists ... Associate degree (Required) in Graphic Art, Graphic Design, Marketing, Communications or related ...

Pwc

Data Engineer - Senior Associate

Grand Rapids, MI

$77K - $202K/yr

As part of the Data and Analytics Engineering team you design and implement thorough data architecture strategies. As a Senior Associate you analyze complex problems, mentor others, and maintain ...

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All JobsAssociate Design Engineer JobsAssociate Design Engineer Jobs in Grand Rapids, MI

Associate Design Engineer information

See Grand Rapids, MI salary details

$38.3K

$76.2K

$121.7K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in Grand Rapids, MI is $76,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,400.00 and $87,600.00 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 Grand Rapids, MI?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Design Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI?

For Associate Design Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Design Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Design Engineer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI are:

What cities near Grand Rapids, MI are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Grand Rapids, MI with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:

Associate Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in Grand Rapids, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $76,164 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

National Bulk Equipment, Inc.

Holland, MI • On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

MECHANICAL DESIGN ENGINEER
ABOUT NBE
National Bulk Equipment (NBE) in Holland, Michigan, is rapidly growing and seeking motivated and qualified individuals. NBE designs, engineers, and manufactures application-specific bulk material processing, packaging, and reclamation equipment, systems, and projects for customers around the globe. The culture at NBE is exceptional, with strong leadership and a casual, inclusive atmosphere. NBE is an expanding organization which offers opportunities for future career growth. The company is also proud to offer employees an excellent benefits package, including a quarterly Bonus Incentive Program. NBE is a company to grow with!
SUMMARY
The Mechanical Design Engineer uses Solidworks to design bulk material handling equipment and integrated systems engineered and built by NBE.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Utilizes knowledge of various machines, engineering practices, mathematics, building materials, and other physical sciences to design equipment and system layouts using 3D design software (Solidworks).
  • Designs equipment or system layouts, and prepares assembly models, approval prints, detailed drawings, and pneumatic & hydraulic schematics.
  • Analyzes equipment specifications & performance requirements to determine designs which can be produced by existing manufacturing or processing facilities & methods, and current design standards.
  • Determines feasibility of designing new plant equipment or modifying existing equipment considering costs, available space, time limitations, company planning, fabrication methods, and other technical and economic factors.
  • Utilizes Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software and Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to validate designs (Solidworks Simulation and Solidworks Flow Simulation).
  • Evaluates field installations and recommends design modifications to facilitate continuous improvement.
  • Evaluates fit, form, and function of equipment design relative to integration with adjacent equipment, electrical components, etc.
  • Evaluates performance & design of equipment and conformity to applicable codes, regulations, and safety standards as required for the application (ANSI, OSHA, etc).

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering (BSME or similar) preferred; or Associate's degree from two-year college or technical school, and a minimum of 3 years related experience and/or training required. Excellent mechanical aptitude and working knowledge of SolidWorks or similar 3D modeling program is required.
What's in it for you?
A career with NBE has many benefits!
  • Quarterly Bonus Program
  • Generous 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan
  • Parental Leave
  • Expanding, newly updated facilities
  • Dynamic team members, and more!

Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Pay Range: $70,000 - $110,000 per year

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