ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

ARA

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for an exceptional Senior Mechanical Engineer to support on-going ...

Northrop Grumman

Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Northrop Grumman is seeking a Mechanical Engineer / Principal Mechanical Engineer to join Mission Systems Discipline Engineering Organization. This position will be located in Chantilly, VA Roles and ...

Actalent

Mechanical Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

Mechanical Engineer - Unmanned Systems The Mechanical Engineer serves as a technical leader for the design, development, and integration of complex mechanical systems supporting unmanned aerial and ...

Kform

Mechanical Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$72.12 - $96.15/hr

We are recruiting mechanical engineers who want to build real systems, solve hard physical problems, and move fast enough to meet the timelines defense technology demands. The battlefield waits weeks ...

Blew & Associates, PA

Mechanical Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Blew & Associates P.A. is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to join our team. This role is responsible for conducting Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) inspections, documenting ...

New

Quantix

Mechanical Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

Mechanical Engineer Location: Gaithersburg, MD Type: Contract to Hire Length: Six months plus Client located in Gaithersburg, Maryland is seeking a Mechanical Engineer for a contract to hire position.

Chloeta

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Job Summary Chloeta is hiring an Mechanical Engineer to provide professional engineering services in support of federal facilities and infrastructure projects. This role supports a wide range of ...

Stantec

Mechanical Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$107K - $155K/yr

Your Opportunity Our Buildings team is looking for a Project Mechanical Engineer with a focus in ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP preferred. Typical office environment working with computers and ...

Stantec

Mechanical Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

Your Opportunity Our Buildings team is looking for a Project Mechanical Engineer with a focus in ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP preferred. Typical office environment working with computers and ...

CACI

Mechanical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Mechanical Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10% Type of Travel: Local

Merrick & Company

Mechanical Engineer

Ellicott City, MD · Hybrid

As a Mechanical Engineer with our Energy, Manufacturing & Bioprocessing team, you will work in a dynamic multi-discipline environment with other engineering and technical personnel to ensure overall ...

Merrick & Company

Mechanical Engineer

Ellicott City, MD · On-site

$102K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer with our Energy, Manufacturing & Bioprocessing team, you will work in a dynamic multi-discipline environment with other engineering and technical personnel to ensure overall ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAssociate Mechanical Engineer JobsAssociate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Associate Mechanical Engineer information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$42.9K

$85.4K

$136.5K

How much do associate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $85,427.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,700.00 and $98,200.00 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 Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,427 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

ARA

Reston, VA • On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for an exceptional Senior Mechanical Engineer to support on-going research and development efforts and develop new business in technologies for functional characterization of WMD facilities and their associated design. Are you a mechanical engineer virtuoso with a passion for engineering the world? Join us as a Senior Mechanical Engineer and become a key player in characterizing large-scale and small-scale mechanical, commercial, and institutional projects? If you thrive on tackling complex challenges and driving innovation in reverse engineering mechanical processes, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for.
The successful candidate will:
  • Innovative Design and Development:
    • Characterize the structure and operation of WMD facilities, some of which are clandestine.
    • Conduct reverse engineering.
    • Engineer precise load calculations, system sizing, and performance predictions.
    • Create and refine detailed technical drawings and schematics.
  • Dynamic Project Management:
    • Spearhead projects from vision to reality, delivering on time and within budget.
    • Collaborate seamlessly with project managers, architects, and contractors.
    • Present compelling project reports and updates to stakeholders.
  • Cutting-Edge System Analysis and Optimization:
    • Dive deep into mechanical engineering analysis to uncover fault exploitation opportunities.
    • Advance reverse engineering capabilities.
  • Inspiring Leadership and Development:
    • Mentor and inspire junior engineers and technicians.
    • Foster a collaborative, innovative, and continuous learning environment.
    • Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies.

Required Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively within or lead a team of peers, as well as excellent interpersonal and communications skills
  • Ability to communicate highly technical analyses at a level comprehensible to laymen and senior-level government representatives
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Ability to clearly express in writing technical analysis results
  • 6-8 years of experience in solving DoD or Industry mechanical engineering problems
  • Practical experience in mechanical engineering
  • Research and Development of new tools and methodologies to understand and reverse engineer processes and support systems at remote WMD-related facilities
  • TS clearance

Desired Qualifications:
  • 10 years of experience in solving DoD engineering/science problems
  • TS clearance with eligibility for SCI based on single-scope background investigation
  • Military or defense-related experience and an understanding of operational planning and functional defeat of hard targets and underground facilities

Compensation & Benefits: Pay Range: $110,000 - 150,000.00 per year, based on years of experience, education, and any specialized skills or knowledge brought to the position. ARA offers competitive benefits designed to support our employees' needs now and in the future. Learn more about our benefits at https://www.ara.com/benefits/.
COMPANY INFORMATION:
Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 1200 professionals. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.
At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership fosters greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company's success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.
Please apply at www.careers.ara.com for the Senior Mechanical Engineer position.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply