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Associate Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

As a Senior Consultant - Associate Data Engineer you will design, build, and optimize modern data solutions for our midmarket and enterprise clients. Working primarily inside the Microsoft stack ...

Quality Engineer

Johnson Creek, WI · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

An Associate degree in a technical field (machine tool technology, engineering technology, or quality assurance) is highly preferred. * Experience: 1-3+ years of experience in quality control or ...

Associate degree or equivalent experience with broad technical knowledge (electronics, physics ... Ability to guide and support engineers remotely Working Environment * Global role with ...

Quality Engineer

Johnson Creek, WI

$72K - $93K/yr

An Associate degree in a technical field (machine tool technology, engineering technology, or quality assurance) is highly preferred. * Experience: 1-3+ years of experience in quality control or ...

... associates, consumers and end users, business partners, and communities. We want you to join our ... Mission The Firmware Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of embedded ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$41.8K

$83.3K

$133K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Madison, WI is $83,267.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $95,700.00 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 Madison, WI? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Madison, WI? For Associate Engineer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Civil Engineer - Transportation Project Manager/Supervisor

Civil Engineer - Transportation Project Manager/Supervisor

Ayres Associates

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Finding the right fit:
Ayres is seeking a confident and motivated project manager/supervisor to be a key contributor to the growth of our Transportation division in the Southwest region of Wisconsin. As a project manager/supervisor within Ayres, you will have access to highly experienced roadway, structure, traffic, and construction engineering staff to help you successfully deliver quality transportation projects to our clients. You will also be supported by your fellow project managers within the company as well as upper management to help ensure as much success as possible.
Success will be defined by your ability as a project manager to develop client relationships; identify, pursue, win and manage transportation related projects; make hiring recommendations as we grow the group; and as a supervisor be instrumental in the career development of less experienced staff within the group.
Join Ayres - a USA TODAY Top Workplace recognized in both 2025 and 2026 - where people-first leadership, collaboration, and professional growth create an environment where great teams do their best work.
We're also excited to celebrate a recent regional honor as a 2026 Madison Top Workplace, a testament to the strength of our people and our culture.
On any given day, you'll:
  • Take the lead in successfully marketing and winning transportation projects from clients including WisDOT, Counties, municipalities, and the private sector.
  • Prepare and negotiate contract documents.
  • Manage clients.
  • Manage projects overseeing the production of all project work, ensuring that the work is produced on schedule, profitably, and in conformance with the quality standards of Ayres Associates and requirements of the contract.
  • Build and maintain respectful working relationships with fellow co-workers and leaders within the company.
  • Support and participate in the development and mentorship of staff.
  • Be an active participant in regularly scheduled group meetings to discuss project pursuits, workload, and resource utilization.
  • Provide input to the group manager for the development of an annual business plan and budget for the group.
  • Actively engage in local, statewide, and/or national professional organizations.
  • Participate in office-wide, social events.

Required Qualifications
  • A bachelor's degree in civil engineering with an emphasis in transportation.
  • Registered Professional Engineer (PE) in the state of Wisconsin.
  • A minimum of 8 years of experience consisting of transportation related design and project management.
  • Willingness to travel to other company locations from time to time.
  • A valid driver's license with a good driving record.

Desired Skills and Experiences:
  • Enthusiastic focus on business development, including client contact, marketing initiatives, and monitoring client and partner satisfaction.
  • A desire to build the Ayres Associates brand at professional meetings/conferences locally, statewide, and potentially nationally.
  • Passion for representing Ayres Associates in a professional manner.
  • Eagerness to cultivate a team environment where all staff members feel valued and supported and all ideas flow freely.
  • Experience with Civil 3D, AutoCAD and other engineering software.

Benefits of being part of the Ayres team:
  • Health, dental, and vision Insurance.
  • Short and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) and 401K with company match.
  • PTO upon hire, paid holidays including two floating holidays, and a flexible work schedule.
  • Professional development opportunities.

Please note, benefits vary depending on job status. To learn more about our great benefits, visit our website at https://www.ayresassociates.com/careers/the-ayres-advantage/
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.