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Associate Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

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Mechanical Project Engineer

Cranston, RI · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Below is a list of preferred backgrounds. · Associate / Bachelor's in Science/Engineering/Technology · Associate / Bachelor's in Drafting/Design Technology · Experience in drafting, 3D modeling ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$40.6K

$80.9K

$129.3K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate 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 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 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 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:
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What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in RI? For Associate Engineer jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Rhode Island as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,927 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Mechanical Project Engineer

Mechanical Project Engineer

Primary Flow Signal

Cranston, RI • On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

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Job description

Engineering Project Manager (Position)

PFS is seeking a highly motivated, organized individual to be part of our engineering/project management team. While exercising your existing experience and skills you will have the opportunity to work with an array of engineering related subjects. Some examples are fluid dynamics, materials, welding/manufacturing, 3D modeling, corrosion, abrasion, and electronics. We employ the latest software and hardware for various design programs and continually pursue innovation in products, processes, and services. PFS offers proprietary product lines along with products that are designed to ASME standards (American Society of Mechanical Engineers). Our organization actively participates and contributes to select ASME committees.

Position Responsibilities

As a project engineer at PFS you will be responsible to:

· Review Project Specifications

· Be familiar and eventually intimate, with various international standards (ISO, ASME, etc)

· Adjust product design to meet specifications and conform to standards

· Perform calculations relating to fluids and pressure containment

· Design 3D models and drawings of product using Solidworks

· Create and compile submittal package documents including drawings and procedures

· Work closely with welding, machining, manufacturing, and quality departments to create manufacturing drawing packages and quality plans

· Ensure projects stay within budget and on schedule

· Interface with the customer through various phases of a project regarding technical inquiries and progress of the project as needed

Qualifications

· Must be enthusiastic about learning (product, procedures, software, etc.)

· Excellent organization skills are essential

· Excellent, articulate written and verbal communication skills are required

· Strong, analytical math skills necessary

· Strong interpersonal skills

· Ability to manage projects and prioritize multiple assignments within timeframes

· Strong interpretive, strategic thinking and problem solving skills with an aptitude for detail

· Must be proficient in:

o Solidworks

o Excel

· Must be competent in common office software such as:

o Adobe Acrobat PDF

o Microsoft Word

o Microsoft Outlook

o AutoCAD used occasionally (not critical)

Education/Experience Considerations

At PFS we value and consider the quality, experience, and capabilities of an individual in addition to formal education. If you are highly motivated and are skilled with the requisite responsibilities and qualifications, you are welcome to inquire about the position. Below is a list of preferred backgrounds.

· Associate / Bachelor’s in Science/Engineering/Technology

· Associate / Bachelor’s in Drafting/Design Technology

· Experience in drafting, 3D modeling and design with Solidworks

· Fabrication, Machining, Manufacturing (floor experience and/or engineer)

· Quality Systems, Quality Assurance, ISO9001, ASME

· ASME B31.1, B31.3, Sect VIII standards

· Flow Measurement, Differential Pressure

· Engineering, Mechanical, Fluid, Pressure, Piping

· Project Management for Industrial and Municipal Markets

Company Description

Primary Flow Signal is a leading U.S.-based manufacturer specializing in precision-engineered flow measurement devices and venturi meters used in critical industrial applications worldwide. Our products are trusted by major utilities, power generation facilities, and process industries to accurately measure and control the flow of liquids, gases, and steam.
We combine decades of experience in advanced fabrication, welding, and machining with a commitment to quality and performance. Our team designs and builds custom flow elements from carbon steel, stainless steel, Inconel, and other specialty alloys, meeting rigorous industry standards and customer specifications.
At Primary Flow Signal, you’ll be part of a collaborative environment where skilled machinists, welders, engineers, and technicians work together to deliver innovative solutions that improve efficiency and reliability in some of the world’s most demanding environments.