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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 · On-site

$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 · On-site

$91K - $124K/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 ...

Transmission Planning Engineer II Personnel in this job title may be covered by NERC CIP ... other associates. Participates in the formulation of Company and industry standards. Provides ...

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA), Southwest Division (SWD) is looking for an experienced Weapons Systems Engineer to join our Concept Development Group (CDG), located in Albuquerque, New ...

Controls Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$64K - $129K/yr

Associate's degree or higher in an Engineering or Construction discipline. * Experience in HVAC ... controls, Building Automation, or related industry. * Working knowledge of primary functions of ...

... other associates Applies extensive engineering expertise to improve or develop new standards Provides advanced and often highly innovative technical direction and/or activity supervision to ...

ENGINEER I-IV

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$128K - $161K/yr

... other associates Applies extensive engineering expertise to improve or develop new standards Provides advanced and often highly innovative technical direction and/or activity supervision to ...

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 ...

Our architects, engineers, interior designers, consultants, sustainability specialists, and ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP preferred. Typical office environment working with computers and ...

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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 Jul 15, 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 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 Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Rio Rancho, NM 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:
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,530 per year, or $35.8 per hour.
Engineer Scientist 2 with Security Clearance

Engineer Scientist 2 with Security Clearance

MELE Associates, Inc.

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

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, programmatic management, environmental planning and logistics support services. This full-time on-site position is contingent upon contract award. Essential Functions: * Support Limited Life Components (LLCs) in preparing Master Nuclear Schedule (MNS), Table of Life (TOL), and Program Control Document (PCD); coordinating spares and support equipment; track surveillance activities; manage LLC delivery schedules with the Office of Secure Transportation (OST) and Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). * Support preparations of Weapons Reliability Report (WRR); track Significant Findings Investigations (SFIs) and Major Assembly Releases (MARs). * Track surveillance execution through the Quality Evaluation Requirements Tracking System (QERTS). * Support the program management and oversight of the MWS Surveillance program and activities. Provide nuclear weapons surveillance subject matter expertise as necessary. * New Material & Stockpile Evaluation Schedules (NMSES), Equipment Requirement Schedules (ERS), PCD Maintenance Support: Support NMSES, ERS, and PCD maintenance. * Base Spares, Test Equipment, H-gear, Support Equipment, and Use Control Equipment Development and Procurement: Develop and procure base spares, test equipment, H-gear, support equipment, and use control equipment; dispose of legacy equipment. * Develop, monitor and control quality assurance issues. * Interface with all aspects of technical management and support to mitigate quality assurance concerns associated with work, including technical and informational input regarding other governmental agencies and other quality assurance requirements. * Track program/project documentation supporting record management functions to validate that intermediate and end of project documentation is submitted and validating that project documentation meets content and other quality standards. Minimum Qualifications: * Current, active DOE Q Clearance/Top Secret Clearance with ability to acquire SCI. * Bachelor's degree in engineering or science-related field. Eight (8) years of relevant experience is equivalent to a four (4) year bachelor's degree. * Minimum five (5) years of government experience * Superior communication, organizational, interpersonal, and writing skills. This position is contingent upon contract award. LOCATION: This is a full-time on-site position in Albuquerque, NM 87123 USA #OPT SALARY: Salaries are determined based on several factors including external market data, internal equity, and the candidate's related knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position. Benefits MELE Offers • Employer-paid employee Medical, Dental and Vision Care. • Low-Cost Family Health Care offered. • Federal Holidays and three (3) weeks' vacation • 401(k) with Employer Match • Cross-training opportunities About MELE Associates, Inc. With over 300 employees and offices in Rockville, MD, Washington, DC, and Albuquerque, NM, MELE is a veteran-owned government contractor empowering its customers with innovative solutions for more than three decades. MELE has team members located across the U.S. and has served more than a hundred countries across hundreds of project locations. The company offers technical, engineering, and programmatic support expertise to a host of U.S. federal and international agencies, including, but not limited to, the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, INTERPOL, and the International Atomic Energy Agency. MELE's services include national security, intelligence, IT/cybersecurity, facility management and engineering, CBRNE defense and nuclear security, emergency response training/management, and mission and program support. MELE Associates, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. MELE Associates, Inc. is an E-Verify employer.