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Associate Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Industry/Sector Not Applicable Specialism Data, Analytics & AI Management Level Senior Associate & Summary The Opportunity As a Data Engineer - Senior Associate, you will focus on designing and ...

GRI is seeking a Senior to Associate level Geotechnical Engineer, Geological Engineer, or Engineering Geologist with 10+ years of experience in landslide and rockfall evaluations. A qualified ...

Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

Guide and direct associate level engineers, technicians and drafters. * Recommend alternative solutions to management in area of specialty on engineering solutions to meet business needs. * Deliver ...

Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

Guide and direct associate level engineers, technicians and drafters. * Recommend alternative solutions to management in area of specialty on engineering solutions to meet business needs. * Deliver ...

Guide and direct associate level engineers, technicians and drafters. * Recommend alternative solutions to management in area of specialty on engineering solutions to meet business needs. * Deliver ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$44K

$87.6K

$140K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Portland, OR is $87,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $100,700.00 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 competitive industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities.

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 assists in designing, developing, and testing engineering projects, often supporting senior engineers with technical tasks. They typically use engineering software, follow project specifications, and may need relevant certifications or training to perform their duties effectively.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? For Associate Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,636 per year, or $42.1 per hour.
Associate Substation Structural Engineer

Associate Substation Structural Engineer

Black & Veatch

Tualatin, OR • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Black & Veatch rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Together, we own our company, our future, and our shared success.

As an employee-owned company, our people are Black & Veatch. We put them at the center of everything we do and empower them to grow, explore new possibilities and use their diverse talents and perspectives to solve humanity's biggest challenges in an ever-evolving world. With over 100 years of innovation in sustainable infrastructure and our expertise in engineering, procurement, consulting and construction, together we are building a world of difference.  

Company : Black & Veatch Corporation  

Req Id : 113330 

Opportunity Type : Staff 

Relocation eligible : Yes 

Full time/Part time : Full-Time  

Project Only Hire : No 

Visa Sponsorship Available: No 

Why Black and Veatch

Black & Veatch allows you to lend your talent and perspective to humanity's biggest challenges in a flexible environment where you are empowered to grow and explore new possibilities. We offer competitive compensation; 401K match and benefits that start day one. 

 
At Black & Veatch, you own your career with purpose and meaning. You are empowered to grow and explore new possibilities at every step of your career journey. Bring your big ideas knowing you are safe to be who you are and speak up with concerns or questions and put your diverse talents and perspectives to use.  #LI-DG1 

The Opportunity

As an Associate Substation Structural Engineer, you will have the opportunity to: 

  • Perform structural design engineering and analysis on substation scopes 
  • Collect and assimilate data for engineering work. Perform research and prepare calculations in accordance with Black & Veatch and industry standards on larger and more complex assignments.  
  • Develop recommendations for equipment and materials, beginning to expand knowledge into other disciplines and/or functional areas. 
  • Understand and work successfully within budget, project schedule, and quality requirements. 
  • Assist with providing guidance to engineering team members.  
  • Maintain positive client relations, understanding client interests and drivers through effective communication with the project team. 
The Team

Black & Veatch isRanked #4 Overall in Powerby Engineering News-Record (2025). Our Technology, Commercial & Industrial Team has specialized capabilities focused on the latest needs for clients in a fast-growth technology-led arena of advanced manufacturing, and generative AI computing including gigafactories, bio/ag tech, data centers anddistributed infrastructure. By joining our market sector, you will have the opportunity to be involved in cutting-edge technology and work with a team that moves quickly with decisions and expectations. 

Black & Veatch provides complete engineering, procurement, and construction new asset and operating asset services in the following areas: 

  • Substations 
  • Overhead Transmission Lines 
  • Underground Transmission Lines 
  • Renewables Integration 
Key Responsibilities
  • Execute structural analysis, perform calculations, and prepare sketches and drawings for the design of supporting structures and foundations for substation equipment and other energy infrastructure. 
  • Assist with generating project-specific specifications and the procurement process. 
  • Work with structural technicians in preparation of structural drawings and specifications.  
  • Assist with construction phase engineering duties such as site visits, responding to RFI's, and review of contractor submittals. 
  • Coordinate with other discipline engineers for project alignment 
  • Focuses on the needs of internal clients (project team leadership) while attempting to gain basic understanding of external client's main interests and drivers 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Basic knowledge of Structural Engineering design principles and applicable design guides and standards 
  • Basic structural steel design experience using 3D analysis and design software such as RISA 3D, STAAD Pro, or equivalent 
  • Basic foundation design experience using analysis and design software such as LPile, RISA Foundation, SP-Mats, etc. 
  • Basic experience performing structural connection and miscellaneous calculations using MS Excel and/or Mathcad 
  • Written Communications, Drive for Results, Priority Setting, Planning, and Listening 
  • The following experience would be a plus (but not required) based on the work anticipated from the client(s): 
    • Experience with design in the energy sector, whether substations, power generation, renewables, or similar fields 
    • Structural design of equipment structures and their respective foundations 
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in engineering from either a recognized accredited program in their home country or the country in which the professional is practicing
  • Minimum of 1 year related work experience
  • All applicants must be able to complete pre-employment onboarding requirements (if selected) which may include any/all of the following: criminal/civil background check, drug screen, and motor vehicle records search, in compliance with any applicable laws and regulations.
Work Environment/Physical Demands

Hybrid or flexible work options may be offered after the first 90 days of employment based upon manager discretion, job performance and work assignments. 

Salary Plan
ENG: Engineering
Job Grade
015

Black & Veatch endeavors to make www.bv.com/careers accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process because of a disability, please contact the Employee Relations Department at +1-913-359-1622 or via our accommodations request form. This contact information is for disability accommodation requests only; you may not use this contact information to inquire about the status of applications. General inquiries about the status of applications will not be returned.

Black & Veatch is committed to being an employer of choice by creating a valuable work experience that keeps our people engaged, productive, safe and healthy.

Our comprehensive benefits portfolio is a key component of this commitment and offers an array of health care benefits including but not limited to medical, dental and vision insurances along with disability and a robust wellness program.

To support a healthy work-life balance, we offer flexible work schedules, paid vacation and holiday time, sick time, and dependent sick time.

A variety of additional benefits are available to our professionals, including a company-matched 401k plan, adoption reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, vendor discounts, an employment referral program, AD&D insurance, pre-taxed accounts, voluntary legal plan and the B&V Credit Union. Professionals may also be eligible for a performance-based bonus program.

We are proud to be a 100 percent ESOP-owned company. As employee-owners, our professionals are empowered to drive not only their personal growth, but the company's long-term achievements - and they share in the financial rewards of the success through stock ownership.

By valuing diverse voices and perspectives, we cultivate an authentically inclusive environment for professionals and are able to provide innovative and effective solutions for clients.

BVH, Inc., its subsidiaries and its affiliated companies, complies with all Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations. Black & Veatch does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender Identity and expression, disability, veteran status, pregnancy status or other status protected by law.

For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. 

Notice to External Search Firms: Black & Veatch does not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Black & Veatch Talent Acquisition engages with search firms directly for hiring needs.


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About Black & Veatch

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Company: Black & Veatch Family of Companies Together, we own our company, our future, and our shared success. As an employee-owned company, our people are Black & Veatch. We put them at the center of everything we do and empower them to grow, explore new possibilities and use their diverse talents and perspectives to solve humanity's biggest challenges in an ever-evolving world. With over 100 years of innovation in sustainable infrastructure and our expertise in engineering, procurement, consulting and construction, together we are building a world of difference.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Overland Park, KS, US

Year founded

1915