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Associate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Senior Associate, Mechanical Engineer Job Code: 41123 Job Location: Tempe, AZ Job Schedule: 1st shift- 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other ...

MECHANICAL ENGINEER We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer in the Phoenix, Arizona metropolitan area to assist in making improvements to medical facilities and surrounding property. This includes ...

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Associate Mechanical Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$38.7K

$77K

$123K

How much do associate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical engineer in Arizona is $77,008.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $88,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate mechanical engineer?

Associate Mechanical Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems and products. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, contributing to projects such as machinery, HVAC systems, automotive components, or manufacturing equipment. Their responsibilities may include creating technical drawings, performing calculations, preparing reports, and supporting the engineering team throughout the project lifecycle. This role is often a starting point for mechanical engineering graduates seeking to gain practical experience and advance their careers.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an associate mechanical engineer expect in their first year?

As an Associate Mechanical Engineer, you can anticipate working on a variety of projects such as assisting with the design and testing of mechanical components, creating CAD models, and supporting senior engineers during prototype development. You'll likely be involved in drafting technical documentation, performing basic calculations, and collaborating with cross-functional teams like manufacturing and quality assurance. This early experience provides valuable hands-on exposure to industry standards and project workflows, helping you build a strong technical foundation and develop professional skills essential for career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), engineering simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and attention to detail help you excel in collaborative projects and technical documentation. These competencies enable you to design, analyze, and implement effective mechanical solutions while ensuring safety, efficiency, and innovation in engineering environments.

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

AspectAssociate Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; some roles may require internship experienceBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; often requires licensure or professional certification for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentEntry-level positions in design, testing, or manufacturing departmentsDesign, analysis, and project management in various industries like automotive, aerospace, or HVAC
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by engineering firms, manufacturing companies, and government agencies for entry-level rolesCommonly employed across industries for mid-level engineering tasks and project execution

The main difference between an Associate Mechanical Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Mechanical Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting roles, while Mechanical Engineers handle more complex design and analysis tasks. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for career advancement.

Is an associate in mechanical engineering worth it?

An associate degree in mechanical engineering can provide a foundation for entry-level roles such as technician or drafter, often requiring less time and cost than a bachelor's degree. However, for higher-level engineering positions and career advancement, a bachelor's degree is typically necessary, and additional certifications or experience can enhance job prospects and earning potential.

What kind of jobs can you get with an associate mechanical engineer?

An associate mechanical engineer can work in roles such as manufacturing technician, design assistant, quality control technician, or maintenance engineer. These positions often involve using CAD software, performing technical analysis, and supporting engineering projects in industrial, automotive, or HVAC environments.

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

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,008 per year, or $37 per hour.

Associate Mechanical Engineer/Mechanical Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Gilbert, AZ • On-site

$72K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: None
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Embark on a career putting innovative, reliable, and agile products and ideas into orbit, and beyond. Northrop Grumman has opportunities waiting for you that play a vital role in human space exploration, national defense, and scientific discovery, supporting multiple programs across the universe. With us, you'll discover a culture of curiosity and collaboration that will have you Defining Possible from the day you start. Our space work connects and protects millions of people on earth every day, now and for the future. Explore your future and launch your career today.
Northrop Grumman is seeking an Associate Mechanical Engineer and/or a Mechanical Engineer. This position will be in Gilbert, AZ. The qualified candidate will become part of Northrop Grumman's Tactical Space System Division.
The Mechanical Engineer will work with Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE) engineering leads and Integration and Test managers across Gilbert product lines to drive design, analysis, integration and delivery of MGSE to support Satellite Manufacturing Facility operations.
1st shift - 7:00am - 4:00pm (flexible)
Job Responsibilities:
  • The candidate will perform detailed design tasks using Computer Aided Design (CAD) and other software tools to develop and document ground support equipment designs.
  • The role involves interfacing and communicating with customers, program and functional management, other spacecraft engineering disciplines, and component suppliers.
  • Skills include, but not limited to, Computer Aided Design (CAD), knowledge and application of Geometric Dimension and Tolerancing (GD&T), 3D Printing, Design for Manufacturing, Mechanics of Metallic / Composite Materials, Stress Calculations, and Spacecraft Component Layout.

Basic Qualifications for an Associate Mechanical Engineer:
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
  • Experience with SolidWorks CAD Software
  • Experience with CAD configuration management
  • Be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite).

Basic Qualifications for Mechanical Engineer:
  • Must have a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or an equivalent STEM related discipline.
  • Minimum of 2 Years of experience with a bachelor's degree; Minimum of 0 Years with master's degree; Minimum of 0 Years experience with PhD
  • Be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance (U.S. citizenship is a pre-requisite).
  • Experience with SolidWorks CAD Software
  • Experience with CAD configuration management

Preferred Qualifications for both levels:
  • Have an overall cumulative GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 or higher.
  • Previous internships or school club involvement related to Mechanical Engineering Design/Build/Test.
  • Experience with Creo Parametric and Windchill PDM/PLM or equivalent engineering tools.
  • Experience with Matlab/Simulin
  • Experience with suppliers and supplier coordination/management
  • Experience creating designs using machined steel and aluminum, sheet metal, welded fixtures, additive manufacturing/composites components and assemblies

Primary Level Salary Range: $59,900.00 - $89,900.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $72,100.00 - $108,100.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939