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Associate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

About the Role As a Mechanical Engineer (or Project Engineer), you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and overseeing the mechanical systems and infrastructure for various projects. You ...

About the Role As a Mechanical Engineer (or Project Engineer), you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and overseeing the mechanical systems and infrastructure for various projects. You ...

Mechanical Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

About the Role As a Mechanical Engineer (or Project Engineer), you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and overseeing the mechanical systems and infrastructure for various projects. You ...

Mechanical Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

We are hiring a Mechanical Engineer for commercial building projects! This is an opportunity to join a fully integrated AE firm as a Mechanical Engineer! * Direct-hire, long-term, permanent position ...

Mechanical Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$94 - $96/hr

Mechanical Engineer Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota Type: 12 month Contract Compensation: $94.00 - $96.00 hourly Contractor Work Model: Onsite System One is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer ...

Position Summary As a Mechanical Engineer at DLR Group you will be responsible for the design of mechanical systems from schematics through construction administration on a wide range of building ...

One Tech Engineering is searching for a Mechanical Engineer for a position located in Minneapolis, Minnesota or Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The Mechanical Engineer will support capital projects at ...

Mechanical Engineer This Mechanical Engineer role focuses on researching, planning, analyzing, designing, and developing complex mechanical products and systems, including ammunition handling systems ...

Our client is looking for a Mechanical Engineer EIT/Designer to join their team. In this role, you will design, develop, and support mechanical systems for a variety of construction projects. The ...

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3 years of relevant experience, OR Associate's degree in a related technical field and 5 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience, OR ...

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3 years of relevant experience, OR Associate's degree in a related technical field and 5 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience, OR ...

Mechanical Engineer The Mechanical Engineer designs and develops innovative mechanical and electro-mechanical components and sub-systems for industrial and commercial mobile cleaning robot platforms.

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3 years of relevant experience, OR Associate's degree in a related technical field and 5 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience, OR ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Mechanical Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$40.6K

$80.9K

$129.3K

How much do associate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical engineer in Minnesota is $80,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,200.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

While most mechanical engineers earn less than $200,000 annually, those in senior roles, management, or specialized fields such as aerospace or energy can reach or exceed this level with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in high-cost-of-living areas. Achieving this salary typically requires a combination of advanced degrees, professional certifications, and significant industry experience.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most associate mechanical engineers do not earn this level of salary, senior-level engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, or leadership roles in high-paying industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or technology can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. Achieving this often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in organizations with high compensation standards.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

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.

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 Associate Mechanical Engineers?

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 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 can I do with an Associate's degree in mechanical engineering?

An associate's degree in mechanical engineering prepares individuals for technician or assistant roles such as mechanical technician, manufacturing technician, or CAD drafter. These positions often involve supporting engineering projects, operating machinery, and using tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks, with some roles requiring certification or on-the-job training.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,935 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Associate Mechanical Engineer

Associate Mechanical Engineer

Nidec Corporation

Mankato, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Nidec rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

303rd of 486 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

We begin with dreams. Dreams drive our motivation. Dreams are our future. The world's dreams, people's dreams, our dreams. Our passion creates ideas that make dreams come alive. Technology and products that were only dreams become reality.
All for dreams. Dreams challenge and the Nidec-Group will continue to meet the challenge. For the world's and people's tomorrows; the world's first, the world's best technologies and products; we will continue our part in creating a better society.
Job Summary
Nidec is the world's No. 1 comprehensive motor manufacturer handling "everything that spins and moves", miniature to gigantic. Nidec is a global enterprise comprised of over 300 subsidiaries/affiliates. We are a leading manufacturer of commercial motors, industrial motors, appliance motors, and controls. Our product line features a full line of high efficiency motors for industrial applications in water treatment, mining, oil and gas, and power generation, and for commercial applications such as pool and spa, condensers, cooling towers and large refrigeration units.
From keeping us comfortable in our homes to pumping clean water to making our cars more safe, electric motors are an indispensable part of our daily lives. At Nidec, our employees are on the forefront of developing new motor technologies. As we move deeper into the age of robotics, the impact of motors will only increase.
With over 140,000 employees stationed worldwide, Nidec continues to be a unique organization, and each location maintains its individual personality.
Whether driving locomotives, powering offshore platforms or keeping the lights on after a storm, Nidec electric power generation products impact the world on a daily basis. With over 1,000 employees in the Americas, we are moving forward with technology to solve our customers' electrical power needs for both prime and backup generation needs as the industry's leading manufacturer.
Job Description
Shift: 1st Shift
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Work Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm
Work Location: On-Site (Mankato, MN)
Starting Salary: $61,800- $92,700
Pay Frequency: Bi-Weekly
At Nidec, we prioritize our team's well-being and success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you both personally and professionally. These are the great benefits we offer, with additional perks and programs available to enhance your overall experience with us.
  • Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary with additional bonus opportunities.
  • Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, effective from your first day.
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a best in-class company match of 100% on the employee's first 6% with an additional 3% employer contribution to support your financial future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous time off package, including PTO and holidays.
  • Education Assistance: Tuition reimbursement and continuous learning opportunities to support your professional growth.

Position Objective:
Research, plan, and design mechanical and electromechanical products and systems and direct and coordinate activities involved in fabrication, operation, application, installation, and repair of mechanical or electromechanical products and systems by performing the following duties.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
  • With Direct Supervision:
    • Perform calculations using math tools including but not limited to Excel, MathCad, and Xlrotor
    • Conduct finite element structural analysis.
    • Evaluate field installations and recommend design modifications to eliminate machine or system malfunctions.
    • Research and analyze customer design requirements, specifications, manuals, and other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, and product maintenance.
    • Work with sales to research and analyze customer specifications to create design proposals.
    • Create detailed designs for manufacturing in a cross functional environment following manufacturability and quality initiatives.
    • Review drawing packages and order documentation completed by other designers and engineers.
    • Design Products, applying engineering principles to meet customer specifications.
    • Design products to meet safety, industry, and agency certification requirements.
    • Evaluate project requirements for required effort and provide estimated completion times.
    • Evaluate design projects to ensure the latest design practices are being utilized.
    • Perform testing to evaluate structural, thermal, and vibration of products.
    • Create bills of materials and assist designers/technicians with the creation of bills of material.
    • Coordinate assembly and testing activities to ensure products and systems conform to engineering design and customer specifications.
    • Work closely with production during construction of initial machine release to record and improve manufacturing or procurement challenges.
    • Evaluate customer test requirements and assign existing or write new test procedures to meet requirements.
    • Presents proposed designs to customer and help negotiate changes required to eliminate functional or dimensional problems
  • Without Direct Supervision:
    • Maintenance and support of existing products to include reliability, cost, and manufacturability product improvements.
    • Assign GD&T dimensional tolerance on parts and check tolerance stack up.
    • Communicate product specifications to electrical and mechanical designers and provide guidance on how the specifications affect product design.
    • Other Activities as directed by management.
    • Document and clearly communicate technical results within company and customers as appropriate.

Experience/Skills:
  • Knowledge of AC or DC synchronous / inductive motors and generators.
  • Experience with rotating equipment and generators.
  • Product design and development experience in structural and mechanical machinery.
  • Candidate MUST be a US Citizen as Kato Engineering contracts through the US Department of Defense
  • Able to organize, prioritize, and complete responsibilities in a timely manner without external motivation.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated initiative, organizational skill, and professional work habits
  • Able to quickly achieve and maintain a high degree of trust and confidence
  • Experience with engineering tools to perform calculations and analysis (Includes but not limited to Excel, MathCAD).
  • Proficient in PTC Creo or Similar 3D Modeling Software
  • Experience in AutoCAD
  • Proficient with GD&T
  • Ability to clearly and effectively communicate with other departments inside the organization as well as with customers.
  • Proficient with the use of various software applications, including but not limited to: Oracle (ERP), Aras (PLM), Adobe Acrobat, and Microsoft Office
  • 0-3 years' work experience minimum in structural and mechanical machinery product design.
  • Must be a US Citizen for positions at the North Mankato facility.

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Additional Job Details
CHECK OUT OUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Nidec Power | Careers
Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action at Nidec
Nidec is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, genetic information, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding your (EEO) rights as an applicant, please visit the following website: http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf
Work Shift Schedule
First Shift (United States of America)
No Soliciting
Nidec will not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies in response to Nidec job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Nidec Talent Acquisition team is required before any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Nidec Talent Acquisition team.

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