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Associate Engineer Jobs in Jackson, MI (NOW HIRING)

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire) Mason, MI Are you a recent graduate or early-career engineer who is passionate about sustainability ...

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire) Mason, MI Are you a recent graduate or early-career engineer who is passionate about sustainability ...

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire) Mason, MI Are you a recent graduate or early-career engineer who is passionate about sustainability ...

Quality Engineer

Jackson, MI · On-site

$65 - $95/hr

The ideal candidate holds a bachelor's degree (preferred) or an associate degree in engineering technology or another technical field, with three to five years of hands‑on experience in a quality ...

BESS Application Engineer

Jackson, MI · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

BESS Application Engineer Location: Jackson, MI Job Id: 186 Number of Openings: 1 Harvest Solar ... Health Insurance: premiums shared 80% by Harvest Solar, 20% by associate via weekly payroll ...

Quality Engineer

Charlotte, MI · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

The Quality Engineer position is responsible for providing problem-solving leadership to the ... Performing associate training, as needed * Developing and maintaining professional, collaborative ...

Quality Engineer

Charlotte, MI · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Performing associate training, as needed * Developing and maintaining professional, collaborative ... in Engineering fieldpreferred) • American Society for Quality CQE certificate preferred • ...

Retail Associate

Albion, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $16/hr

... IT developers to vice presidents of finance; from HR Business Partners to export specialists ... Cashier Guest Assistant Produce Associate Deli Associate Meat Associate Barista Pharmacy Technician ...

Retail Associate

Marshall, MI

$14.75 - $16.75/hr

... IT developers to vice presidents of finance; from HR Business Partners to export specialists ... Cashier Guest Assistant Produce Associate Deli Associate Meat Associate Barista Pharmacy Technician ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Jackson, MI salary details

$37.2K

$74.1K

$118.3K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Jackson, MI is $74,076.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $85,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate engineer?

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 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 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.

How much does an associate engineer get paid?

An associate engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and additional responsibilities.

What can I do with an associate engineer's degree in engineering?

An associate engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles such as technician, assistant engineer, or project support staff. These positions often involve tasks like drafting, testing, data analysis, and using tools like CAD software, with opportunities for on-the-job training and certification to advance in engineering fields.

What is the salary of an associate engineer?

The salary of an associate engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on factors such as industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Jackson, MI?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Jackson, MI are:

What cities near Jackson, MI are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs?

Cities near Jackson, MI with the most Associate Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Jackson, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,076 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Dart Container rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 121 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Associate Process Engineer (12-Month Temporary Assignment with Potential for Full-Time Hire)

Mason, MI

Are you a recent graduate or early-career engineer who is passionate about sustainability, materials science, chemistry, and product innovation? Looking for an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with real-world products used by millions every day?

We're seeking an Associate Process Engineer to join our team in Mason, MI for a 12-month temporary assignment with the potential for full-time employment. This is an exciting opportunity to work on sustainable packaging solutions, collaborate with industry experts, and develop technical expertise in testing, materials, manufacturing processes, and product development.

What You'll Do

As an Associate Process Engineer, you'll play a key role in supporting product and process development initiatives focused on sustainability and performance. You'll work closely with laboratories, suppliers, manufacturing teams, and engineers to coordinate testing programs, analyze results, and help drive innovation.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Coordinate internal and third-party laboratory testing programs
  • Manage testing activities, including physical and wet chemistry evaluations
  • Arrange, track, and follow through on testing of substrates, materials, and packaging components
  • Analyze and document test results and technical findings
  • Support sustainable product initiatives, including compostable, biodegradable, and alternative material technologies
  • Review technical data sheets and collaborate with suppliers on material performance and specifications
  • Assist with bill of material calculations and material composition analysis
  • Create and maintain testing parameters and technical documentation within SAP
  • Participate in process improvement, troubleshooting, and root cause investigations
  • Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, Quality, R&D, and Supplier partners
  • Document engineering changes, technical improvements, and standard operating procedures
  • Support feasibility studies and continuous improvement projects focused on quality, efficiency, and sustainability
What You'll Learn

This role provides outstanding exposure to:

✅ Sustainable packaging technologies

✅ Compostable and biodegradable materials

✅ Polymers, paper products, cups, lids, and foodservice packaging

✅ Product development and manufacturing processes

✅ Laboratory testing and data analysis

✅ SAP systems and engineering documentation

✅ Supplier collaboration and technical material evaluation

✅ Cross-functional project management

We're Looking For

Recent graduates and early-career professionals with a strong technical foundation and a desire to learn.

Preferred Degrees
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Materials Science Engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Formulation Science
  • Polymer Science
  • Packaging Engineering
  • Other relevant Science or Engineering disciplines
Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Interest in materials, sustainability, and product development
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and coordinate activities across teams
  • Comfortable interpreting technical data and laboratory results
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Experience with laboratory testing, materials characterization, or manufacturing processes is a plus
Why Join Us?

This is more than a temporary opportunity. It's a chance to gain valuable experience working on innovative and sustainable products while building relationships across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams.

If you're eager to launch your engineering career, learn from experienced professionals, and make an impact on the future of sustainable packaging, we'd love to hear from you.

Overview: Dart makes everyday products that give people the freedom to enjoy the food & drinks they love, wherever they are. From to-go containers and dinnerware to tamper-evident food packaging and even the red SOLO cup, Dart products have been keeping people on the go and having fun for 65 years.  We’re a family-owned, family-focused company of 12,000 employees united by a shared set of values and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. Headquartered in Mason, MI, with 30 locations in three countries, we’re proud of our ability to innovate, manufacture and lead the way with each new generation of quality products.

Benefits: Dart Container full-time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short-term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.

Dart Container is a drug-free workplace.  Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC*/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.

*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.
Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

https://www.dartcontainer.com/eeoaa/

If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this website or for the application process, you should call Dart at (800) 545-3278 Ext 3370 or email us at ADArequests@dart.biz. Relay calls can be made by dialing 711 or the relay number for your state.

If you experience difficulty applying online, you may call (800) 545-3278 Ext 3390 or email us at applicationassistance@dart.biz for assistance.


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