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Associate Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in Washington

M echanical Design Engineer III/IV Security Clearance An active security clearance or the ability ... complex mechanical systems. You will develop designs from concept to production, with hands-on ...

Mechanical Design Engineer III

Dulles, VA · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position Summary Lead, evaluate, design, and engineer projects and systems to specification on ... Ability to read mechanical and plumbing plans. * Strong verbal and written communication skills

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position Summary Lead, evaluate, design, and engineer projects and systems to specification on ... Ability to read complex mechanical and plumbing plans * Excellent verbal and written communication ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Mechanical Design Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$51.5K

$103.7K

$154.6K

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical design engineer in Washington is $103,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,100.00 and $116,700.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Associate Mechanical Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,721 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer III/IV

Artis, LLC

Herndon, VA

$115K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer III/IV

Security Clearance

An active security clearance or the ability to obtain a clearance is required. Only U.S. citizens are eligible for security clearances.

Overview

You will work to develop new generations of sensing and real-time processing and actuation technologies in a fast-paced and exciting environment. As part of a small and dedicated team, you will be given immediate responsibility for designing and analyzing complex mechanical systems. You will develop designs from concept to production, with hands-on involvement to oversee parts fabrication, system assembly and validation testing along the way. Typical day-to-day work is done using CAD for design, along with analysis tools such as Excel and MATLAB. Prototype part fabrication often occurs in-house, with larger orders outsourced to local vendors under the engineer's direct supervision. Once parts or systems become available, validation testing occurs on a regular basis at internal Artis facilities and may occur at other test facilities.

This advanced position will also require the application of your experience across a wide range of design challenges including designing for a variety of manufacturing methods, thorough analysis of designs before fabrication, validation and failure analysis of produced parts and assemblies, and production documentation preparation and review. Additionally, your significant experience will be utilized to help guide the effort of those engineers on the team with less experience. You will also aid in the identification and implementation of new processes or design approaches to improve the quality of our products and efficiency of our engineering process.

Skills

  • Diverse design experience required, preferably to include design for military and/or automotive systems
  • Experience bringing a product to full-scale production preferred
  • Strong reasoning and math/science background
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Highly motivated, interested in learning and ready to take on a variety of tasks
  • CAD experience required (SolidWorks preferred)
  • FEA experience preferred (SolidWorks Simulation preferred)
  • Use of hand tools and measurement equipment required
  • Experience using basic fabrication equipment (mills, lathes, welders, etc.) preferred
  • Experience with MIL-STDs and qualification testing preferred
  • Computer Skills: Should be comfortable with standard Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.); experience with MATLAB and similar analysis tools preferred.
  • GD&T experience a plus

Work Environment

This position works in an office environment 75% of the time with remaining time spent in shop areas and indoor and outdoor testing areas.

Position Type

This is a full-time, exempt position. Work from home one day a week with generous flexibility on the other days.

Physical Demands

The employee will be required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee will be required to sit and climb or balance on a ladder at heights up to 10 ft. The employee will be required to work outdoors periodically in all weather conditions. The employee will be required to occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Travel

Travel may be required up to 15% of the time.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering with 10+ years' experience, or related degree and experience

Preferred Education and Experience

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering with 7+ years' experience, or related degree and experience.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME