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Associate Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer (Associate & Experienced) Location: O'Fallon, Missouri Business Unit: Defense Electronics Group Reports To: Mechanical Engineering Manager (initially reporting to Graham ...

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Bristol, VA ยท On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Associate degree (two-year technical degree) in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Drafting and Design, or a related field. * Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * 1 ...

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Associate Mechanical Design Engineer information

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$45.5K

$91.6K

$136.5K

How much do associate mechanical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical design engineer in the United States is $91,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate mechanical design engineer do?

An Associate Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems and components. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to create technical drawings, conduct simulations, and support the manufacturing process. Their role typically includes collaborating with cross-functional teams, analyzing design specifications, and making improvements to ensure products meet quality and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate mechanical design engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, mechanical design, and proficiency with CAD software, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of relevant standards and certifications, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and present your ideas clearly. These skills ensure the successful development and implementation of innovative mechanical solutions that meet project requirements and industry standards.

What opportunities for career growth are available to an associate mechanical design engineer?

As an Associate Mechanical Design Engineer, you can expect to gain hands-on experience working on various design projects alongside senior engineers, which is a strong foundation for career advancement. Many organizations offer mentorship programs, technical training, and support for professional certifications to help you develop specialized skills. With a few years of experience and demonstrated capability, you may progress to roles such as Mechanical Design Engineer, Senior Mechanical Engineer, or Project Lead. Additionally, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like manufacturing and quality assurance will broaden your industry knowledge and network, further supporting your career trajectory.

What is the difference between Associate Mechanical Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectAssociate Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; some roles may require internship experienceBachelor's or Master's degree; more experience may be preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based design projects, often under supervisionMore independent project work, leading design tasks
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in design, drafting, and testing; learning company standardsDeveloping detailed designs, reviewing specifications, and collaborating with manufacturing

The main difference between an Associate Mechanical Design Engineer and a Mechanical Design Engineer lies in experience and responsibility level. The associate role is typically entry-level, focusing on learning and supporting design tasks, while the Mechanical Design Engineer has more independence and handles complex projects. Both roles require a background in mechanical engineering and are common in engineering firms and manufacturing industries.

More about Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Associate Mechanical Design Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,578 per year, or $44 per hour.

ASSOCIATE MECHANICAL DESIGN ENGINEER

Bascom Hunter

Frederick, MD โ€ข On-site

$65 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

ASSOCIATE MECHANICAL DESIGN ENGINEER

Full Time Frederick, MD, US

BASCOM HUNTER is an advanced technology and product development company specializing in aerospace, defense, and other high-performance electromechanical systems. We develop innovative products for military and commercial customers from concept through production.

The Associate Mechanical Design Engineer supports the design, analysis, development, and qualification of mechanical and electromechanical products. Working under the guidance of senior engineers, this role contributes throughout the product development lifecycle, including concept development, detailed design, prototype fabrication, testing, qualification, and production support.

This position provides an excellent opportunity to develop technical expertise while working on complex aerospace and defense hardware in a collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment.

Responsibilities

Mechanical Design

  • Develop 3D CAD models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks.
  • Design mechanical components, electronic enclosures, brackets, structural hardware, sheet metal, machined parts, and electromechanical assemblies.
  • Support engineering trade studies and product development activities.
  • Develop tolerance stack-ups, mechanical interfaces, and assembly concepts.
  • Perform engineering calculations and assist with structural, thermal, and vibration analysis using hand calculations and FEA tools.
  • Support evaluation of stress, fatigue, thermal effects, and structural performance.
  • Assist with material selection, fastener design, and environmental sealing solutions.

Product Development

  • Support all phases of product development, including concept development, detailed design, prototype fabrication, qualification testing, and production transition.
  • Prepare engineering documentation, manufacturing drawings, and bills of material.
  • Participate in design reviews and Engineering Change Notice (ECN) activities.

Systems Integration & Testing

  • Support the mechanical integration of electronic assemblies, wiring, connectors, and mechanical hardware.
  • Assist with prototype assembly, laboratory testing, troubleshooting, and data collection.
  • Support environmental qualification activities, including vibration, thermal, shock, and durability testing.

Manufacturing Support

  • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Test, Quality, and Supply Chain to resolve design and production issues.
  • Incorporate Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles into new designs.
  • Support prototype and production builds as required.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • 1โ€“5 years of mechanical design experience through internships, coโ€‘ops, or professional employment.
  • Experience with SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD software.
  • Fundamental understanding of mechanics of materials, machine design, manufacturing processes, and engineering drawings.
  • Familiarity with ASME Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problemโ€‘solving skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with ANSYS Mechanical or other FEA software.
  • Experience developing aerospace, defense, industrial, automotive, or other highโ€‘reliability products.
  • Familiarity with MILโ€‘STDโ€‘810, DOโ€‘160, or similar military or aerospace standards.
  • Handsโ€‘on experience with prototype fabrication, testing, or laboratory work.
  • Internship or professional experience supporting product development or manufacturing.

Desired Characteristics

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and eagerness to learn.
  • Handsโ€‘on approach to engineering and product development.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments in a fastโ€‘paced engineering environment.
  • Effective collaborator with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
  • Desire to develop into a technical leader through increasing engineering responsibility.

Why Bascom Hunter?

At Bascom Hunter, Associate Mechanical Design Engineers work alongside experienced engineers developing advanced aerospace and defense products. You'll gain handsโ€‘on experience across the complete product development lifecycle while building the technical foundation needed to advance into increasingly complex design and technical leadership roles.

Additional Information

All positions at Bascom Hunter are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity verification. BASCOM HUNTER is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.

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