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Associate Engineer Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Test Engineer (Associate) Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) seeks an Associate Electrical Test Engineer to join our Electrical Engineering Capability Team ...

From engineering systems that save lives to leading programs that change the battlefield-find your place in the future of defense. Mission Solutions By joining our Mission Solutions business, you ...

New

ASRC Agile Decision Sciences is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical defense systems. We ...

ASRC Agile Decision Sciences is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical defense systems. We ...

Thermal Design Engineer

Huntsville, AL · Remote

$130K - $179K/yr

Design Engineer -- Passive Thermal Systems - 12+ months Mid-Level | Aerospace & Defense *This job ... At MORI Associates, we partner with some of the most visionary and mission-critical organizations ...

Thermal Design Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site +1

$130K - $179K/yr

Design Engineer - Passive Thermal Systems - 12+ months Mid-Level | Aerospace & Defense *This job is ... At MORI Associates, we partner with some of the most visionary and mission-critical organizations ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Engineer information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$38.9K

$77.5K

$123.7K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Decatur, AL is $77,467.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,400.00 and $89,100.00 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 Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,467 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
Quality Engineer Associate

Quality Engineer Associate

Lockheed Martin

Courtland, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description


Company Mission & Program Overview
Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more - we can innovate, invest, inspire and integrate our capabilities to transform the future.
At Lockheed Martin Space, we aim to harness the full potential of space to cultivate innovation, reduce costs, and push the boundaries of what technology can achieve. We're creating future-ready solutions, focusing on resiliency and urgency through our 21st Century Security® vision. We're erasing boundaries and forming partnerships across industries and around the world. We're advancing spacecraft and the workforce to fuel the next generation. And we're reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity.
Join us in shaping a new era in space and find a career that's built for you.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
As a Production Quality Engineer Associate, you will support the our Missile Assembly Building daily quality needs.
This position will apply quality principles in the areas of: design, incoming material, production control, product evaluation, program performance, reliability, inventory control, and/or research and development as they apply to product or process quality for make and/or buy products.
Perform technical evaluations including product requirements, specifications, models/designs, drawings and procedures. Collaborate with program management, engineering, manufacturing, supply chain and customers on quality related issues to ensure quality standards are in place. Engage in product failure investigations, material review board decisions and corrective/preventive action. Ensure corrective measures meet acceptable reliability standards and/or are compliant with requirements. Develop strategies and systems designed to improve internal and/or supplier performance and productivity. Evaluate quality systems for deficiency identification and correction. Design and analyze inspection and testing processes, mechanisms and equipment; conduct product quality tests, perform statistical analysis to assess products or materials that do not meet required standards and specifications. Engage in supplier selection process and maintain certification programs.
We are seeking an energized individual who is passionate about building the space technologies of tomorrow. Will you join us in the journey?
Basic Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college in technical discipline (e.g., engineering field) or equivalent discipline (e.g., Chemical, Electrical, Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, or Aerospace Engineering)
• Knowledge of manufacturing/quality processes and documentation
• Ability to comprehend and interpret drawings, work instructions, schematics, and specifications
• Demonstrates thorough attention to detail
• Required to work off shifts, overtime and nonstandard work weeks as needed to meet product deliveries
• Must be able to obtain Secret Security Clearance.
Desired skills
• Root Cause Analysis experience Data collection
• Experience driving robust Corrective Actions
• Experience working independently with customers and suppliers
• Experience creating and modifying Receiving Inspection Plans
• Team lead or formal leadership experience
• Understands lean manufacturing and quality optimization in a production environment
• Experience with SAP, P2P, VECAMS, and data analytics to report trends and achieve results
• Excellent communication skills to engage the team, customers and senior leaders
• Resourceful self-starter possessing a "learning orientation
EEO
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
*
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you're invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Other Important Information
By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Work Schedule Information
Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
National Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $54,900 - $96,830. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
Premium Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in most major metropolitan areas in California, Massachusetts, and New York is $63,200 - $109,365. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
This position is incentive plan eligible.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912