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Associate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

McKinstry

Associate Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

We are currently seeking an Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our growing New Construction team in the Pacific Northwest. In this role, you'll focus on engineering, design, and coordination of ...

McKinstry

Associate Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · Hybrid

... mechanical systems. If you want to shape landmark regional projects from the ground up, this role is your next step. Engineers at McKinstry are unsurpassed in their ability to combine innovative ...

DLR Group

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR

The Engineering team has an opening for a Mechanical Engineer. Location: Seattle, WA or Portland, OR Position Summary As a Mechanical Engineer at DLR Group you will be responsible for the design of ...

DLR Group

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $108K/yr

The Engineering team has an opening for a Mechanical Engineer. Location: Seattle, WA or Portland, OR Position Summary As a Mechanical Engineer at DLR Group you will be responsible for the design of ...

Netwoven

Mechanical Engineer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

Mechanical Engineer in the Product Group, you will contribute directly to the design, development, and delivery of next‑generation wet processing equipment for advanced semiconductor manufacturing.

Kosmos

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR

$90K - $140K/yr

Growing Manufacturing firm in Butte, MT has a need for a Sr Mechanical Engineer. This is a direct hire role with a full benefits package and relocation assistance. Take responsibility for assigned ...

Stantec

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

Join us and design your place with Stantec Your Opportunity The Mechanical Engineer draws on strong buildings engineering knowledge and industry experience to consistently produce project ...

Micropump

Mechanical Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

MECHANICAL ENGINEER CEME Americas is part of a multinational Italian group, CEME SPA, with its headquarters in Northern Italy and manufacturing locations in five countries: Italy, Ireland, Hungary ...

Micropump

Mechanical Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

MECHANICAL ENGINEER CEME Americas is part of a multinational Italian group, CEME SPA, with its headquarters in Northern Italy and manufacturing locations in five countries: Italy, Ireland, Hungary ...

Panthalassa

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR

$125K - $175K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will spearhead the design of numerous mechanical components and assemblies that must withstand extreme loads and a harsh ocean environment. You will support subsystem ...

Panthalassa

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will spearhead the design of numerous mechanical components and assemblies that must withstand extreme loads and a harsh ocean environment. You will support subsystem ...

DLR Group

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $146K/yr

DLR Group has an opening for a Senior Mechanical Engineer. Locations: * Portland, OR Position Summary As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will be responsible for leading design of mechanical systems ...

Panthalassa

Mechanical Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will spearhead the design of numerous mechanical components and assemblies that must withstand extreme loads and a harsh ocean environment. You will support subsystem ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Mechanical Engineer JobsAssociate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Associate Mechanical Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$43.8K

$87.3K

$139.5K

How much do associate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical engineer in Portland, OR is $87,310.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,200.00 and $100,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 mechanical engineer?

An associate mechanical engineer can work in designing, testing, and maintaining mechanical systems across industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and HVAC. They often assist senior engineers, use CAD software, and may pursue certifications like EIT or PE to advance their careers.

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, a bachelor's or higher degree is typically necessary, and the associate degree may limit advancement opportunities in the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR?

For Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Internship. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,310 per year, or $42 per hour.

Associate Mechanical Engineer

McKinstry

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

McKinstry rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Build the future, spark innovation and align your career with purpose.
McKinstry is innovating the waste and climate harm out of the built environment and creating lasting impact. Together, we're building a thriving planet.
Buildings are a leading contributor to the climate crisis, generating nearly 40% of total global energy-related carbon emissions. We're making a lasting impact on our industry and within our communities by addressing the climate, affordability and equity crises through:
  • renewables and energy services
  • engineering and design
  • construction and facility services

To get where we're going, we need big thinkers, problem solvers and collaborative mindsets. Does that sound like you?
The Opportunity with McKinstry
Our team is growing! We are currently seeking an Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our growing New Construction team in the Pacific Northwest. In this role, you'll focus on engineering, design, and coordination of large-scale new construction projects while collaborating with preconstruction, detailing, and field teams to deliver high-performance, constructible mechanical systems. If you want to shape landmark regional projects from the ground up, this role is your next step.
Engineers at McKinstry are unsurpassed in their ability to combine innovative problem solving with common sense design applications. Because of our design, build, operate, and maintain (DBOM) process, McKinstry engineers concern themselves not just with the construction of a building, but how it will operate over its entire lifetime. Every design choice is made toward one goal - delivering high-performance buildings that ensure occupant comfort and safety, keep energy/operating costs low, maximize client profitability, and protect the environment.
This role is based in Portland, OR and operates on a hybrid work schedule.
Key Responsibilities:
Team Management
  • Leads and manages a team of engineers, delegating design tasks and overseeing project deliverables across multiple projects.
  • Drives coordination between internal design, construction, and cross-functional teams.
  • Proactively identifies and secures resource needs to meet project deadlines and quality standards.
  • Actively mentors and develops lead and project engineers, providing technical guidance and career development support as their direct manager.

Project Management
  • Owns project correspondence, issue tracking, decisions, and direction across assigned projects.
  • Champions the development and adoption of standardized design tools across the team.
  • Manages team workload and capacity planning to consistently deliver projects on time and within budget.
  • Leads engineering analysis in support of sales pursuits and early-stage design efforts.
  • Defines, communicates, and manages scope, design intent, and design process with minimal oversight.
  • Anticipates and proactively manages changes in scope, schedule, budget, or client expectations.
  • Demonstrates command of overall project objectives and drives creative, resourceful solutions to complex challenges.

Design
  • Serves as a technical authority in mechanical systems design, including calculations, airside and piping systems, equipment selection, and multidiscipline coordination; coaches and delegates to lead and project engineers.
  • Independently performs, directs, and reviews engineering calculations, design, and drafting tasks across the full project lifecycle.
  • Oversees and contributes to the production of design drawings and building information models for construction.
  • Leads coordination efforts with both internal and external project stakeholders.
  • Drives process and technology improvement initiatives across the team.
  • Leads investigation, evaluation, and troubleshooting of complex new and existing systems.
  • Working autonomously, presents and advocates for design direction, system selection, energy conservation, and cost savings strategies.

Customer Relations
  • Leads regular design meetings with customers and external stakeholders, often serving as the primary McKinstry point of contact.
  • Represents McKinstry with credibility and professionalism in the broader community.
  • Actively engages and holds leadership roles in professional organizations critical to McKinstry's line of business.
  • Builds and sustains long-term client relationships that enhance McKinstry's reputation and support business development.
  • Prepares proposals for new scopes of work and change orders, leads design project pursuits independently or in support of internal partners, and engages in customer relationship management.

What we would like to see from you:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering discipline
  • 10+ years of experience in engineering design or related field with at least 3 years of project and people management.
  • Valid Professional Engineer (PE) registration
  • Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams on complex, multi-discipline projects.
  • Load calculation experience through IES VE, Carrier HAP, Trane Trace, Elite CHVAC, or equivalent.
  • Advanced knowledge of Revit and Bluebeam.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Microsoft Teams.
  • Energy modeling experience highly preferred.
  • Onsite construction experience highly preferred.
  • Master's degree in engineering or related discipline preferred.
  • LEED, WELL, or other sustainability accreditation preferred.

PeopleFirst Benefits
When it comes to the basics, we have you covered:
  • Competitive pay
  • 401(k) with employer match and profit-sharing plan
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision with low or zero deductible options and low out of pocket maximums

People come first at McKinstry, and we go beyond the basic benefits with:
  • Family formation benefits, including adoption and IVF assistance.
  • Up to 16 weeks paid parental leave.
  • Transgender inclusive benefits
  • Commuter benefits
  • Pet insurance
  • "Building Good" paid community service time.
  • Learning and advancement opportunities via McKinstry University.
  • McKinstry Moves onsite gyms or reimbursement for remote workers

See benefit plan documents for complete details.
If you're driven by our vision to build a thriving planet together, McKinstry is the place to build your career.
The pay range for this position is $111,420 - $177,650 per year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. A bonus may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location.
The McKinstry group of companies are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and qualified applicants without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, race, color, creed, marital status, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, but not limited to employment, advancement, assignment, and training. This commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity is made equally as a social responsibility and as an economic and business necessity.
McKinstry is a drug-free workplace. Employment iscontingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment drug and alcohol test, complying with the requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act and a Confidentiality Agreement, in addition to successful outcomes of background and reference checks.
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