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Associate Engineer Jobs in Portage, IN (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

About Us At Ghafari Associates, we don't just design buildings-we help shape the future of the industries we serve. As a global leader in architecture, engineering, and consulting, we partner with ...

About Us At Ghafari Associates, we don't just design buildings-we help shape the future of the industries we serve. As a global leader in architecture, engineering, and consulting, we partner with ...

Mechanical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

About Us At Ghafari Associates, we don't just design buildings-we help shape the future of the industries we serve. As a global leader in architecture, engineering, and consulting, we partner with ...

Our Engineering teams play a critical role in maintaining safe, efficient, and high-quality environments that support exceptional guest and associate experiences. Summary The Bench Engineer serves as ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Engineer information

See Portage, IN salary details

$38.1K

$75.8K

$121.1K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Portage, IN is $75,811.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,100.00 and $87,200.00 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 Portage, IN?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Portage, IN are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Portage, IN?

For Associate Engineer jobs in Portage, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Portage, IN are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs?

Cities near Portage, IN with the most Associate Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Portage, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,811 per year, or $36.4 per hour.

$95K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
General Summary:
The Mechanical Engineer will provide, revise or extend mechanical systems for new construction and/or renovation of industrial, commercial, or institutional structures as requested by the client. The Mechanical Engineer will develop construction drawings and specifications which address the installation, integration, interconnection and control of mechanical components within the standard building codes.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Review and/or establish project scope, mechanical budget, necessary constraints and design approach with Project Manager and/or client
  • Proper communication skills to be involved in design team / owner meetings and communicate directly with the owner and / or owner's representative
  • Prepare feasibility studies and project cost estimates
  • Maintain working knowledge of latest building and codes used in the industry
  • Formulate and lead design of mechanical systems including HVAC, piping, plumbing, and fire protection
  • Perform and/or review calculations and building energy models; formulate design of mechanical systems including HVAC, piping, plumbing, and fire protection
  • Create engineering documents using computer aided design (CAD) technology utilizing Autodesk (Revit and AutoCAD) and/or Bentley CAD software (2D and 3D applications) or manually with support from more junior staff
  • Edit or draft project specifications
  • Conduct field measuring and checking at the construction site
  • Review drawings for omissions, errors, interferences, overall quality, content accuracy, compliance with standards and codes
  • Review product submittals for design content, specify action to be taken to reach specification compliance
  • Maintain organized project file containing project calculations, correspondence, appropriate reference materials, etc.
  • Assist with checking, standards review, and maintenance of master specifications
  • Develop and mentor less experienced staff
  • Perform related duties as assigned

Employment Qualifications:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or related field required
  • Professional Registration
  • LEED accredited professional preferred

Experience:
  • 5-14 years of related experience in mechanical engineering (HVAC/building systems)

Skills/Competencies:
  • Proficiency with Revit and AutoCAD, Trane Trace 700 or other building energy calculation software, and Bluebeam
  • Knowledge in ProjectWise BIM360 and Carrier HAP a bonus
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Strong attention to detail

Benefits:
At Ghafari, we offer a robust benefits package designed to support your overall wellbeing. In addition to a competitive salary, eligible employees receive Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Teladoc, Employee Assistance Program, Professional License Reimbursement, Educational Assistance, Voluntary Pet Insurance, Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, and 8 Paid Holidays. The annual base salary range for this position is $95,000.00 to $120,000.00. Individual pay is based on factors such as relevant experience, job-related skills, education, and training.
About Us
At Ghafari Associates, we don't just design buildings-we help shape the future of the industries we serve. As a global leader in architecture, engineering, and consulting, we partner with clients to deliver forward-thinking solutions that transform how people work, manufacture, and connect.
Our strength lies in our people. We bring together curious minds, technical experts, and creative problem-solvers who thrive on collaboration and innovation. Whether supporting major industrial programs or advancing federal and commercial projects, our teams are empowered to make a meaningful impact-both for our clients and within our communities.
We are committed to investing in our employees' financial, physical, and emotional well-being, as well as their professional growth. Through robust training, licensure support, internships, mentorships, and tuition reimbursement, we provide the resources our people need to build rewarding careers while making a lasting difference in the communities we are proud to call home.
Ghafari Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. As a federal contractor, Ghafari Associates maintains affirmative action programs for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in accordance with applicable laws.
Pay Transparency
Ghafari Associates will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
Accommodation
Ghafari Associates is also committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities in the employment application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability to use our online system to apply for a position, you may also apply for positions in the following ways:
  • By fax at: , Attn: Human Resources
  • By mail at: 17101 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126, Attn: Human Resources
  • In person at: 17101 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126
  • By email at:

If there are any questions about the accommodations offered above, please contact for assistance.