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Associate Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Job Title ASSOCIATE THERMAL ENGINEER Location Huntsville, AL 35806 US (Primary) Category Engineering Job Type Full-Time Career Level Experienced (Non-Manager) Education Bachelor's Degree Security ...

Associate Aerospace Engineer with demonstrated training/education in providing air/space craft or propulsion system design, integration, and test support for aviation platforms. This position will be ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$37.6K

$74.9K

$119.6K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Alabama is $74,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,400.00 and $86,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Associate Engineers?

Associate Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who support more experienced engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various projects in their field. They typically work under supervision and assist with tasks such as drafting technical documents, conducting research, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Associate Engineers often gain practical experience and training to advance to higher-level engineering roles as they develop their skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects and teams.

What can you do with an Associate in engineering?

An associate degree in engineering prepares individuals for technical roles such as engineering technician, CAD drafter, or quality control inspector. These positions often involve supporting engineering projects, using tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB, and may require certification or on-the-job training to develop specialized skills.

What Is an Associate Engineer?

An associate engineer is a lower level engineer in many fields of engineering, including environmental, civil, and mechanical. The title denotes rank and experience level. As an associate engineer, your typical job duties involve analyzing project plans, designing products, maintaining equipment, closely following specifications and procedures, and writing reports. The specific duties vary widely depending upon your field and employer. This career usually requires at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering and obtaining a license in your state. Additional qualifications include relevant work experience, strong technical skills, and a familiarity with your specific industry.

What is the work of an Associate engineer?

An Associate Engineer is an entry-level engineering professional responsible for assisting in the design, development, testing, and implementation of engineering projects. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, utilize tools like CAD software, and may need relevant certifications or technical skills to perform tasks effectively.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most associate engineers do not earn this level of salary, senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, petroleum, or aerospace engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, or in high-demand industries. Achieving this income typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or entrepreneurial ventures.

What is the difference between Associate Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry-level certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; professional licensure (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and support roles in engineering teams; often in office or lab settingsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industrial or construction settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position across various industries like manufacturing, construction, and techDesign and development roles primarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

The main difference between an Associate Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while Mechanical Engineers have more experience and handle complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for advanced roles. The choice depends on your experience level and career goals within engineering fields.

What are some typical challenges Associate Engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to industry roles?

Associate Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to industry roles challenging due to differences in project scope, teamwork dynamics, and pace. In industry, you’ll likely work on larger, multi-disciplinary teams where effective communication and collaboration are crucial. Additionally, projects often have stricter deadlines and require adherence to established processes and standards, which may be less emphasized in academic settings. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from senior engineers can help ease this transition and set you up for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate technical solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Alabama? For Associate Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in AL? For Associate Engineer jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,900 per year, or $36 per hour.
Associate/Systems Test Engineer -AHT NAREW

Associate/Systems Test Engineer -AHT NAREW

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$79K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 352 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Job Description
Northrop Grumman Defense Systems (NGDS) is looking for an Associate Engineer Test or Test Engineer based out of Huntsville, Alabama for the IBCS Poland Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS). IBCS Poland Integrated Battle Command System is a revolutionary, network enabled command-and control system developed by Northrop Grumman that Poland has deployed to unify its air and missile defense sensors and shooters. IBCS Poland Integrated Battle Command System delivers a single integrated air picture with unprecedented accuracy and broadens surveillance and protection areas. By implementing IBCS Poland Integrated Battle Command System into their militaries, the US and other nations are transforming their integrated missile defense capabilities in a consistent manner.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Designs, develops, and implements testing methods and equipment
  • Plans and arranges the labor, schedules, and equipment required for testing and evaluating standard and special devices
  • Collaborates with stakeholders which may include, but not limited to, manufacturing, engineering, customer, and program personnel to ensure requirements are met
  • Provides test area with parameters for sample testing and specifies tests to be performed
  • Compiles data and defines changes required in testing equipment, testing procedures, manufacturing processes, or new testing requirements.

Basic Qualifications Associate Engineer Test:
  • Associate Engineer Test requires Bachelors of Science in Engineering, Computer Science or other STEM discipline, with 0 years of relevant experience
  • Active Secret Clearance
  • Strong work ethic and the ability to work in a team environment
  • Ability to understand and interpret test guidance to perform software or systems testing
  • Excellent decision making and communication (written and oral) skills
  • Ability to earn Security+ certification within six months

Preferred Qualifications Associate Engineer Test:
  • Software or Systems Test Experience
  • Ability to learn and support Test Tool development
  • Linux + certification or equivalent experience with Linux OS
  • Experience with Windows OS
  • DoD 8140 certification at IAT Level II or higher (CompTIA Security+, etc.)

Basic Qualifications Engineer Test:
  • Associate Engineer Test requires Bachelors of Science in Engineering, Computer Science or other STEM discipline, with 2 years of relevant experience
  • Active Secret Clearance
  • Strong work ethic and the ability to work in a team environment
  • Ability to understand and interpret test guidance to perform software or systems testing
  • Excellent decision making and communication (written and oral) skills
  • Ability to earn Security+ certification within six months

Preferred Qualifications Engineer Test:
  • Software or Systems Test Experience
  • Ability to learn and support Test Tool development
  • Linux + certification or equivalent experience with Linux OS
  • Experience with Windows OS
  • DoD 8140 certification at IAT Level II or higher (CompTIA Security+, etc.)
  • r (CompTIA Security+, etc.)

Primary Level Salary Range: $66,200.00 - $99,200.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $79,600.00 - $119,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939