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Associate Principal Engineer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineer III

Bend, OR ยท On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

Reporting to a Senior Engineer, Associate Principal, or Principal, the Mechanical Engineer III supports design development, performs calculations, and prepares coordinated construction documents. The ...

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is seeking an industry-leading, Associate Principal or Principal Geotechnical Engineer to be an integral part of expanding and developing our geotechnical ...

Project Geostructural Engineer

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$89K - $126K/yr

As part of our team, you will deliver engineering solutions for temporary works and design-build ... principal or associate. * Development project drawings using AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Revit. * Apply ...

Project Geostructural Engineer

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$89K - $126K/yr

As part of our team, you will deliver engineering solutions for temporary works and design-build ... principal or associate. * Development project drawings using AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Revit. * Apply ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Principal Engineer information

See Oregon salary details

$43.9K

$87.4K

$139.6K

How much do associate principal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate principal engineer in Oregon is $87,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,300.00 and $100,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Principal Engineer vs Senior Engineer?

AspectAssociate Principal EngineerSenior Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, professional certifications often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, some certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, cross-team collaboration, strategic planningProject-focused, technical problem-solving, mentorship
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large corporations, R&D, and engineering firmsCommon across industries, especially in tech, manufacturing, and engineering

The Associate Principal Engineer typically holds a more senior, strategic role involving leadership and cross-team coordination, whereas a Senior Engineer focuses on technical expertise and project execution. Both roles require strong engineering credentials, but the Associate Principal Engineer often has additional responsibilities in guiding technical direction and mentoring.

What is an associate principal engineer?

An Associate Principal Engineer is a senior-level technical professional who leads complex engineering projects and provides guidance to other engineers. They are responsible for designing solutions, ensuring technical quality, and often play a key role in setting engineering standards and best practices within an organization. In addition to their technical expertise, they may collaborate with cross-functional teams, mentor junior staff, and contribute to strategic planning. This role typically requires extensive experience and a proven track record of technical leadership.

How does an associate principal engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams within an organization?

As an Associate Principal Engineer, you will frequently work alongside product managers, designers, and other engineering disciplines to translate business requirements into technical solutions. Collaboration often involves participating in architecture reviews, providing technical guidance, and ensuring alignment across teams during project development cycles. This role requires strong communication skills to articulate complex concepts and facilitate consensus among stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment that supports both innovation and delivery.

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

To thrive as an Associate Principal Engineer, you need advanced engineering expertise, a relevant bachelor's or master's degree, and significant experience in your technical domain. Familiarity with industry-standard design tools, project management software, and certifications like PMP or relevant technical credentials are often required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you guide project teams and collaborate across departments. These abilities ensure successful project delivery, innovation, and alignment with organizational goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Engineer jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Principal Engineer jobs in Oregon are:

Infographic showing various Associate Principal Engineer job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,370 per year, or $42 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer III

ColeBreit Engineering LLC

Bend, OR โ€ข On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Open Date
6/22/2026
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Exempt
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time
Location
ColeBreit Engineering (Bend, OR)
Pay Range
$90,000-$113,000 Annually (Commensurate with Experience)
About the Organization
ColeBreit Engineering is a client-focused mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection engineering and design consulting firm with extensive experience serving a wide range of industry sectors. Our expertise spans higher education and K-12 schools, multi-family and high-end residential, healthcare, commercial, hospitality, municipal, industrial, and winery projects.
As an agile, 100% women-owned, WBE/COBID-certified firm, we think big while delivering the full-service, detail-oriented engineering and consulting support each project demands. With a team of 50 professionals across five offices in Oregon and California, we bring a deep passion for our work, reflected in our commitment to excellence and exceptional attention to detail.
We are proud to support projects that strengthen and serve the communities where we live and work. Guided by quality, integrity, and expertise, we are dedicated to exceeding our clients' expectations in everything we do. ColeBreit Engineering offices are located in Bend and Portland, Oregon, and Monterey, Napa, and Santa Cruz, California.
Description
Location: Bend or Portland, Oregon. Napa, Santa Cruz or Monterey, California. Seattle, WA. Or surrounding areas. Remote applicants within the U.S. will be considered based on qualifications and salary alignment. Remote applicants must be able to work within Pacific Time Zone hours.
Summary/Objective
The Mechanical Engineer III plays a key role in executing high-quality mechanical design and supporting project delivery across ColeBreit Engineering's diverse portfolio. This position focuses on technical production, coordination, and collaboration with team members to deliver mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection systems that meet performance, code, and constructability standards. Reporting to a Senior Engineer, Associate Principal, or Principal, the Mechanical Engineer III supports design development, performs calculations, and prepares coordinated construction documents. The role requires growing independence in technical problem-solving and proactive communication with project teams to ensure accurate and timely deliverables. By demonstrating technical skill, attention to detail, and a collaborative mindset, the Mechanical Engineer III strengthens ColeBreit Engineering's reputation for high-quality, efficient, and innovative design.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Technical Design and Production (~65%)
  • Perform detailed design and documentation of HVAC, plumbing, and hydronic systems, including equipment selection, layout, and sizing.
  • Develop coordinated Revit models and drawings, integrating with architectural and structural systems.
  • Complete design calculations such as load, pressure drop, and equipment sizing under review by a Senior Engineer.
  • Prepare system diagrams, control sequences, and specifications using company templates and standards.
  • Participate in internal QA/QC reviews and incorporate feedback to maintain consistency with ColeBreit standards.
  • Support field work by conducting site visits, reviewing installations, and preparing clear field observation reports.
  • Respond to contractor RFIs and submittals with oversight, ensuring coordination with design intent.

Project Coordination and Communication (~25%)
  • Collaborate with Project Managers, architects, engineers, and contractors to coordinate mechanical systems within the overall building design.
  • Track progress on assigned deliverables and communicate proactively about timelines and resource needs.
  • Participate in project meetings to share updates, clarify design requirements, and resolve coordination issues.
  • Maintain organized project documentation and ensure design files are properly managed in accordance with company standards.
  • Support Senior Engineers and Project Managers in preparing reports, narratives, and presentations for clients or stakeholders.

Professional Growth and Mentorship (~15%)
  • Seek mentorship from Senior Engineers and Principals to develop advanced technical and project management skills.
  • Mentor junior designers or interns on drafting standards, modeling practices, and workflow efficiency.
  • Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and share lessons learned with peers.
  • Participate in internal technical discussions and firmwide learning opportunities.
  • Pursue professional licensure and ongoing technical development through study and continuing education.

Business Development
  • Support proposal preparation by providing technical input and assisting with scope definition.
  • Participate in occasional client or coordination meetings as a technical representative under the direction of a Senior Engineer or Principal.
  • Contribute to building strong client relationships by demonstrating responsiveness, professionalism, and attention to detail.
  • Represent ColeBreit Engineering positively in the industry through professional conduct and involvement in technical organizations such as ASHRAE.

Supervisory Responsibility
This position may include mentoring or providing day-to-day guidance to designers or interns, as assigned. The Mechanical Engineer III does not have direct supervisory responsibility for full-time staff.
Work Environment and Travel
  • This role operates in a professional office environment with regular use of computers and related equipment.
  • Local and regional travel (within 100 miles) is expected for project meetings and site visits. Occasional overnight travel may be required based on project needs. Hybrid work flexibility is available depending on project requirements and team coordination needs.

Required Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.
  • 5+ years of progressive MEP design experience focusing on HVAC and plumbing systems for commercial, institutional, or residential projects.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license in Mechanical Engineering, with registration in California or Oregon-or ability to obtain within 90 days-required.
  • Experience with load simulation software (EnergyPro, Trane TRACE, or Carrier HAP) preferred.
  • Proficiency in Autodesk Revit required.
  • Working knowledge of Bluebeam preferred.
  • Understanding of relevant building codes in Oregon and California highly preferred.
  • Strong technical writing and verbal communication skills; ability to present information clearly to diverse audiences.
  • Active involvement in professional organizations (ASHRAE or equivalent) preferred.

Competencies and Attributes
  • Technical Expertise - Demonstrates strong understanding of mechanical and plumbing systems and ability to execute accurate, coordinated designs.
  • Accountability - Takes ownership of assigned tasks and meets deadlines consistently.
  • Collaboration - Works effectively with peers and leadership to support coordinated, multidisciplinary design.
  • Communication - Communicates clearly, proactively, and respectfully with colleagues and clients.
  • Growth Mindset - Seeks mentorship and actively builds technical and leadership skills.
  • Adaptability - Handles shifting priorities and project demands with professionalism.
  • Team Orientation - Embodies ColeBreit's "No Jerks Allowed" culture, promoting collaboration and trust.

Core Values Alignment
Team First - Want to Grow - Driven to Perform. ColeBreit Engineering fosters a people-first culture that values collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement. Our team members are accountable, approachable, and committed to delivering technical excellence and meaningful client partnerships.
Other Duties
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. ColeBreit Engineering reserves the right to amend duties or responsibilities as business needs evolve.
EOE Statement
As a woman-owned firm, we value diversity. We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity), age, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, citizenship or any other characteristic protected by law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request an accommodation.
EOE/M/F/D/V/SO
Req Number
ENG-25-00012
This position is currently accepting applications.