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Associate Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Advanced Systems Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

Ability to develop and interpret complex technical requirements and associate those to system engineering milestones within the development lifecycle. * Collaboration: Ability to work with engineers ...

The associate will work within a large customer's mining facilities to improve the performance of ... This role will support Engineered Gear products in Arizona, mainly V-Class and A+ drives for two ...

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Quality Test Engineer

Tuscon, AZ · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Associate degree required; bachelor's degree preferred. * Experience supporting technology in an ... Previous product support or service engineering experience. * Project management experience.

Showing results 21-40

Associate Engineer information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$35.7K

$71K

$113.5K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Tucson, AZ is $71,042.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $81,700.00 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 Tucson, AZ?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ?

For Associate Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Associate Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,042 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Mechanical Designer Engineer

PDS Tech Commercial

Tucson, AZ • Hybrid

$64.64 - $74.64/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, support, and implement aircraft modification projects from concept through certification.

  • Prepare detailed drawings, engineering documentation, and installation packages for aircraft interior and structural modifications.

  • Coordinate with suppliers, internal teams, and regulatory agencies throughout the design and certification process.


Job description

Design the Future of Flight as a Mechanical Design Engineer 

Do you have a passion for aircraft design and engineering innovation? PDS Tech Commercial is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to support a leader in the aerospace industry. In this role, you'll develop mechanical designs and engineering solutions for aircraft interior and structural modifications, helping bring customer concepts to life while ensuring compliance with FAA and international certification standards. 

If you're experienced with CATIA or NX, enjoy solving complex engineering challenges, and thrive in a collaborative environment, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on world-class aerospace programs. 

Position Details

  • Location: Tucson, AZ

  • Schedule: 2 days a week in office, 3 days remote (subject to change)

  • Job Type: Full-Time

  • Pay Rate: $64.64 - $74.64 per our

What You’ll Do

As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you'll be responsible for designing, supporting, and implementing aircraft modification projects from concept through certification. 

Design & Engineering 

  • Prepare detailed, assembly, and installation drawings for aircraft interior and structural modifications. 

  • Develop engineering documentation, including specifications, substantiation reports, and installation packages. 

  • Design aircraft components and assemblies using CATIA (preferred), NX, or AutoCAD

  • Research component specifications and select materials and hardware that meet engineering and customer requirements. 

  • Ensure all designs comply with applicable FAA, EASA, and TCCA regulations 

Project & Technical Support 

  • Coordinate with suppliers, internal engineering teams, manufacturing, and regulatory agencies throughout the design and certification process. 

  • Support the development of Statements of Work (SOWs), engineering estimates, and customer proposals. 

  • Provide liaison engineering support to manufacturing by troubleshooting build, installation, and test issues. 

  • Create engineering deviations and design updates to resolve production challenges. 

  • Support aircraft integration, installation, and certification activities. 

Collaboration 

  • Work closely with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Manufacturing, Program Management, Supply Chain, and Customer Support. 

  • Participate in design reviews and provide technical recommendations. 

  • Manage multiple engineering projects while meeting quality, cost, and schedule objectives. 

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline and five (5) or more years of relevant engineering experience, or 

  • Ten (10) or more years of practical mechanical design experience within the aviation industry. 

  • Experience designing aircraft structures, interiors, or mechanical systems. 

  • Proficiency with CATIA (preferred), NX, or AutoCAD

  • Working knowledge of FAA, EASA, and/or TCCA certification requirements. 

  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). 

  • Experience supporting manufacturing or shop floor activities through liaison engineering and troubleshooting. 

  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. 

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities. 

  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative engineering team. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Five to ten years of aerospace mechanical design experience. 

  • Experience supporting business jet modification programs. 

  • Knowledge of aircraft interiors, structures, and installation design. 

  • Experience creating engineering deviation drawings and resolving production issues. 

  • Familiarity with aircraft certification documentation and substantiation reports. 

  • Experience working directly with suppliers and customers to develop engineering solutions. 

Ready to Engineer the Next Generation of Aircraft?

If you're an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer who enjoys solving complex challenges, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and designing innovative aerospace solutions, we want to hear from you. 

Apply today with PDS Tech Commercial and help shape the future of aerospace engineering—one design at a time. 
 
 


Pay Details: $64.64 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.


Company Description

Every year, PDS Tech Commercial and PDS Defense place thousands of skilled trades and engineering associates into roles all across the nation. Since our founding in 1977, we have maintained the highest standard of service and satisfaction among both talent and clients.

Today, we continue to deliver exceptional services as a proud member of The Adecco Group (TAG) family, a leading global workforce solutions provider. What does this mean for you? We are united by a powerful mission: making the future work for everyone. We offer our local experience paired with global resources, bringing significant advantages to all our areas of expertise. From end-to-end digital recruitment to priority redeployment and beyond, we are committed to building a better world of work for all.


PDS Tech logo

About PDS Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1977, PDS Tech, Inc. is one of the nation's premier specialty staffing firms with 31 offices nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1977

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