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Associate Engineer Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Software Engineer to support the Office of Personnel and Facility Clearances and Classification (OPFCC), NA-74. The OPFCC is responsible for ...

Software Engineer III

Albuquerque, NM

$53.75 - $72/hr

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Software Engineer to support the Office of Personnel and Facility Clearances and Classification (OPFCC), NA-74. The OPFCC is responsible for ...

Software Engineer II

Albuquerque, NM

$91K - $124.60K/yr

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Software Engineer to support the Office of Personnel and Facility Clearances and Classification (OPFCC), NA-74. The OPFCC is responsible for ...

Stephens & Associates (DBS&A), a Geo-Logic Associates Company Are you a highly motivated entry-level engineer seeking challenging projects, career advancement, employee ownership, and a great place ...

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Engineer/Scientist to support the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) in the execution of its mission, including providing technical ...

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Engineer/Scientist to support the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) in the execution of its mission, including providing technical ...

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Engineer/Scientist to support the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) in the execution of its mission, including providing technical ...

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Engineer/Scientist to support the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) in the execution of its mission, including providing technical ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$37.4K

$74.5K

$119.1K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Rio Rancho, NM is $74,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,100.00 and $85,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Associate Engineer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Associate Engineer / Engineer I AF

Associate Engineer / Engineer I AF

City of Rio Rancho

Rio Rancho, NM • On-site

$29.40 - $36.75/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


City Of Rio Rancho rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

321st of 639 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Summary Associate Engineer The Associate Engineer classification is a two-part career progression model comprised of the following working titles: Associate Engineer and Senior Associate Engineer. This two-part model allows for appropriate placement upon hire into the position or automatic advancement to Senior Associate Engineer upon meeting required certification and experience benchmarks as detailed below. In both steps, the incumbent is responsible for aiding staff with managing and coordinating engineering design, inspection, review, and construction management of the City's infrastructure systems including planning, monitoring, and implementing to completion engineering design and, review, construction management, and, inspection of City infrastructure and capital improvement projects and oversees their completion.

Engineer I The Engineer I classification is a two -part career progression model comprised of the following working titles: Engineer I and Engineer II. This two-part model allows for appropriate placement upon hire into the position or automatic advancement to Engineer II upon meeting required experience benchmarks as detailed below. For existing incumbents that obtain the required qualifications for advancement into the Engineer II, he/she must also have an overall performance rating of at least "meets expectations" on their last evaluation.

In both steps, the incumbent plans, monitors, budgets, implements, coordinates, inspects, oversees and/or manages City infrastructure and capital improvement projects for design and construction (i.e., water, sewer, drainage or transportation systems). Education, Training, Experience, Certifications, Licenses and Registrations Associate Engineer Education / higher education: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college For required college degrees, applicable field(s) of study: Civil engineering, Engineering Technology - Civil, or related discipline Minimum number of years of directly related experience: None. Education and/or experience preferences: Six months internship or work experience

Senior Associate Engineer Education / higher education: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college For required college degrees, applicable field(s) of study: Civil engineering, Engineering Technology - Civil, or related discipline Minimum number of years of directly related experience: One (1) year of experience in engineering or construction management. Education and/or experience preferences: Two years' internship or work experience. Driver's License requirement: Infrequent Driver -- Regular Driver's License Required Endorsements: None Note -- For any driver, driving record must always meet City driving and insurability standards.

Associate Engineer Required certifications, licenses or registrations: None Senior Associate Engineer Required certifications, licenses or registrations: Engineering in Training (EIT) certification Engineer I Education / higher education: Bachelor's Degree For required college degrees, applicable field(s) of study: Civil engineering, Engineering Technology - Civil, or related discipline Minimum number of years of directly related experience: Three years' work experience in engineering or a directly related field of engineering. Any combination of post-graduate education from an accredited college or university in an engineering related field may substitute for up to two years of work experience. Education and/or experience preferences: Depending on the Department to which the position is assigned, experience might be preferred in transportation, water and wastewater, roadway, structural or drainage engineering.

Engineer II Education / higher education: Bachelor's Degree For required college degrees, applicable field(s) of study: Civil engineering, Engineering Technology - Civil, or related discipline Minimum number of years of directly related experience: Five (5) years' work experience in engineering or a directly related field of engineering. Any combination of post-graduate education from an accredited college or university in an engineering related field may substitute for up to two (2) years of work experience. Education and/or experience preferences: Depending on the Department to which the position is assigned, experience might be preferred in transportation, water and wastewater, roadway, structural or drainage engineering.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Associate Engineer Knowledge: Specific knowledge and skills in municipal engineering, transportation and utilities construction, surveying, engineering/construction specifications, standards, methods and procedures. Skills: Must be able to type rapidly and accurately enough to successfully produce documents/spreadsheets, communicate via e-mail, or perform data entry as necessary to accomplish the essential functions of the position. Use of technology, equipment and software typically used in the office environment.

Reading and interpreting engineering plans, City codes and related ordinances, and developing reports and budgets. Operating a personal computer for word processing, spreadsheets, databases and engineering and computer mapping and modeling software. Reviewing engineering drawings and specifications.

Abilities: Read, analyze, and interpret technical reports, general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations. Develop and monitor budgets. Interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Clearly write professional reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, customers, and the general public. Work with mathematical concepts to analyze problems, interpret data and apply to practical situations found in the workplace.

Interaction with Groups/Agencies/Entities: Internal: Works with engineering staff, inspectors, and operations managers on complex engineering and special project including transportation, drainage, water, wastewater and development projects. Works with City Attorney, Finance Department, and other department staff. Maintains harmonious, courteous, and understanding relationships, while fostering a collaborative teamwork environment.

External: Works with contractors, developers, government agencies, consultants, and the general public on planning and implementing City infrastructure projects and resolves complaints and issues. Presents a friendly, courteous image for the City to the general public, customers, and public officials. Engineer I Knowledge: Specific knowledge and skills in municipal engineering, transportation drainage, and utilities construction, surveying, engineering/construction specifications, standards methods and procedures.

General knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing environmental permitting. Knowledge and skills in reading and interpreting engineering plans, City codes and related ordinances, and developing reports and budgets. Skills: Must be able to type rapidly and accurately enough to successfully produce documents/spreadsheets, communicate via e-mail, or perform data entry as necessary to accomplish the essential functions of the position.

Use of technology, equipment and software typically used in the office environment. Operate a personal computer for word processing, spreadsheet, database, and engineering and computer mapping and modeling software. Abilities: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical reports, general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.

Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, customers, and the general public.

Ability to work with mathematical concepts to analyze problems, interpret data and apply to practical situations found in the workplace. Interaction with Groups/Agencies/Entities: Internal: Works with engineering staff, inspectors and operations managers on complex engineering and special projects including transportation, drainage, water, wastewater and development projects. Works with City Attorney, Finance Department, and other department staff.

Maintains harmonious, courteous, and understanding relationships, while fostering a collaborative teamwork environment. External: Works with contractors, government agencies, consultants, public and private utility owners, and the general public on planning and implementing City infrastructure projects and resolves complaints and issues. Presents a friendly, courteous image for the City to the general public, customers, and public officials.

Essential Functions The following functions are typical for this position. The omission of specific functions does not exclude them if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment for this position. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Associate Engineer Public Works-Engineering Division or Utilities Department: Provides research, calculations, design and development of construction plans and specifications for City water, sewer, transportation, drainage, or other infrastructure projects. Conducts studies and evaluates needs for water, sewer, transportation, drainage, or other infrastructure improvements. Participates in planning these infrastructure improvement projects.

Coordinates planning and provides research for the design and development of construction plans and specifications for infrastructure projects; estimates construction costs and prepares budgets for future projects and studies. Evaluates infrastructure needs and makes recommendations for construction, rehabilitation or maintenance projects. Reviews engineering plans and specifications to ensure compliance with City or State and Federal standards as required as well as reviews the accuracy of cost estimates and other bid document items.

Sets project schedules based on assessment of project design, budget, and other user requests. Conducts preconstruction meetings to establish project protocols and compliance with applicable construction standards, and coordinates City staff, design, and inspection teams. Reviews and oversees progress and quality of construction; interprets design intent, facilitates solutions, and negotiates change order settlements.

Maintains and tracks project budget, recommends revisions, and monitors contract amendments. Coordinates with contractor and other government entities to ensure contractors and projects have proper permits and licenses. Represents the City at meetings with government agencies, consulting engineers, developers, contractors and the general public.

Development Services-Engineering Division: Provides research, calculations, design and development of construction plans and specifications for City water, sewer, transportation, drainage, or other infrastructure projects. Conducts studies and evaluates needs for water, sewer, transportation, drainage, or other infrastructure improvements. Participates in planning these infrastructure improvement projects.

Represents the City at meetings with government agencies, consulting engineers, developers, contractors, and the general public. Participates in negotiations of contracts with private developers, contractors, and engineering/design professionals. Sets project schedules based on assessment of project design, budget, and other user requests.

Runs preconstruction meetings to establish project protocols and compliance with State and City construction standards, and coordinates City staff, design and inspection teams. Reviews plans and specifications for City projects or land development projects to ensure compliance with City standards as well as accuracy of cost estimates and other bid document items. Reviews and oversees progress and quality of construction; interprets design intent, facilitates solutions, and negotiates change order settlements.

Maintains and tracks project budget, recommends revisions, and monitors contract amendments. Coordinates with contractor and other government entities to ensure contractors and projects have proper permits and licenses. Participates in negotiations of contracts with private developers, contractors, and engineering/design professionals.

Engineer I Coordinates planning and provides research for the design and development of construction plans and specifications for infrastructure projects; estimates construction costs and prepares budgets for future projects and studies. Produces Request for Proposals and schedules pre-design meetings. Evaluates infrastructure needs and makes recommendations for construction, rehabilitation or maintenance projects.

Reviews engineering plans and specifications to ensure compliance with City standards as well as accuracy of cost estimates and other bid documents items. Participates in negotiations of contracts with private developers, contractors, and engineering/design professionals. Sets project schedules based on assessment of project design, budget, and other user requests.

Conducts pre-construction meetings to establish project protocols and compliance with applicable construction standards, and coordinates City staff, design and inspection teams. Reviews, inspects and oversees progress and quality of construction; interprets design intent, facilitates solutions, and negotiates change order settlements. Maintains and tracks project budget, recommends revisions, and monitors contract amendments.

Coordinates with contractor and other government entities to ensure contractors and projects have proper permits and licenses. Represents the City at meetings with government agencies, consulting engineers, developers, contractors and the general public. Trains other employees in various aspects of project management.