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Design Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

PCB Design Engineer Location: Tucson, AZ Work Type: Onsite Clearance: U.S. Citizenship required; Secret clearance required or obtainable Role Summary We are seeking a PCB Design Engineer to support ...

We are seeking an experienced Electrical Design Engineer with a strong background in system-level design and testing, encompassing both analog and digital circuitry. This role involves full lifecycle ...

We are seeking an experienced Electrical Design Engineer with a strong background in system-level design and testing, encompassing both analog and digital circuitry. This role involves full lifecycle ...

Digital Design Engineer

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$128K/yr

Compensation open to negotiation Digital Design Engineer Responsible for the design, analysis, simulation, test, and integration of digital electronic modules and/or CCAs for Missile applications.

Digital Design Engineer - Secret Clearance Required Location: Tucson, AZ (On-site) Job Type: W-2 Contract or Contract to hire Clearance: Active U.S. Security Clearance required prior to start Pay ...

Digital Design Engineer

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Digital Design Engineer - Secret Clearance Required Location: Tucson, AZ (On-site) Job Type: W-2 Contract or Contract to hire Clearance: Active U.S. Security Clearance required prior to start Pay ...

Digital Design Engineer

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Digital Design Engineer - Secret Clearance Required Location: Tucson, AZ (On-site) Job Type: W-2 Contract or Contract to hire Clearance: Active U.S. Security Clearance required prior to start Pay ...

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Opto Mechanical Design Engineer

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer (CAD / SolidWorks) Tucson, Arizona Salary: Up to $120,000 DOE Our client, a growing high-technology engineering and manufacturing company, is seeking a Mechanical Design ...

Design Engineer I (DESIG006367)

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

Design Engineer I - Hydraulic Valves & Mechanisms Sargent Aerospace & Defense is a premier global supplier of custom engineered, high quality products to the Aerospace and Defense Industries. Sargent ...

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Design Engineer information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$38.4K

$83.7K

$150.5K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Tucson, AZ is $83,682.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $93,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), are commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with teams and translating ideas into workable designs. These abilities ensure innovative, efficient, and manufacturable solutions that meet both technical and client requirements.

What is the difference between Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDesign EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Design certifications often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, project planningManufacturing plants, labs, fieldwork, CAD and testing
Employer & Industry UsageProduct design firms, automotive, aerospace, consumer goodsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Design Engineers focus on creating and developing product designs using CAD tools, while Mechanical Engineers often work on the broader application, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Design Engineers typically emphasize design skills and software proficiency, whereas Mechanical Engineers may engage more in analysis and system integration.

What does a design engineer do?

A Design Engineer is responsible for creating and developing new products, systems, or structures by combining engineering principles with creative design. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce detailed drawings and specifications, working closely with other engineers and teams to ensure functionality, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Design Engineers are involved in every stage of product development, from initial concept through prototyping, testing, and final production. Their work often requires problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to communicate ideas clearly.

How does a design engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Design Engineers regularly work alongside teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and product management to ensure that designs are both innovative and feasible for production. Collaboration often involves participating in cross-functional meetings, reviewing prototypes, and incorporating feedback from various stakeholders. This teamwork is essential to address technical and practical challenges early in the design process, which ultimately helps in delivering a successful product to market. Strong communication and adaptability are key skills for thriving in this collaborative environment.

What is a design engineer?

Design engineers develop ideas for new products and determine ways to improve existing products. As a design engineer, you put a creative perspective on your technical engineering knowledge to perform your job duties, which include creating sketches of design ideas and using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to generate plans for prototypes. To ensure the product is viable, you also evaluate other aspects of the product design, such as safety, cost, sustainability, aesthetics, and user experience. You collaborate with a team of technicians and other engineers to run tests, troubleshoot problems, and ultimately produce a newly designed product.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ? For Design Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Tucson, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,682 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Leonardo Electronics US Inc

Tucson, AZ โ€ข On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Advance Your Impact: Mechanical Design Engineer II

Are you a results-driven Mechanical Design Engineer ready to take on more significant challenges and drive innovation? Do you excel in a hands-on environment where your designs come to life? Leonardo is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer II to join our dynamic team and play a critical role in the development of next-generation diode lasers and systems. Availability of this position is dependent upon final contract award.

This isn't a role where you'll just be executing tasks. You'll be actively owning and contributing to your portion of the design and development lifecycle, spending approximately 50% of your time immersed in hands-on development in our advanced cleanroom and laboratory facilities. We're looking for someone eager to translate complex technical requirements into tangible, high-performance solutions, from initial concept refinement through rigorous prototype testing and ultimately delivery and installation.

As a Mechanical Design Engineer II, you'll be instrumental in shaping product designs from early stages to successful delivery. This highly collaborative position requires you to interface directly with internal engineering teams, our program managers, and external vendors, ensuring that designs are both innovative and manufacturable. You will also have the opportunity to guide technicians and manufacturing personnel, sharing your growing expertise and contributing to project success.


What You'll Contribute:

  • Core Design & Analysis: Perform mechanical product design, analysis, and development, focusing on components and assemblies such as:
    • Heatsinks and Heat Exchangers for optimal thermal performance.
    • Design and detail Optomechanical Medical, Military, Scientific, and Commercial grade assemblies, ensuring precision and robustness.
    • Design and develop laser diode packages and assemblies, including designing and testing tooling.
    • Elements of Direct Diode Laser Sources, Fiber Coupled Laser Systems, and supporting Tooling and Test System Design.
  • Apply sound engineering principles and creative thinking to solve technical challenges.
  • Utilize SolidWorks for 3D and 2D CAD design and detailing, adhering to ANSI Y14.5M standards and GD&T.
  • Generate Bills of Materials, lifecycle documentation, and support the creation of work instructions.
  • Use tools like ANSYS to validate designs against requirements.
  • Project Execution: Work closely with Program Managers to manage design and build outcomes within assigned scope and budget. Assist Product Engineers in transferring designs to production.
  • Prepare and present clear and effective analysis results and design reviews to internal teams.
  • Engage in hands-on prototype assembly and debugging, collaborating with technicians and engineers from various disciplines. Your hands-on work will include:
    • Assisting with solder reflow processes and micro component assembly tooling.
    • Designing, assembling, and operating laser test systems.
    • Developing or selecting pump systems and chillers for laser cooling systems.
    • Support prototype testing and validation.
  • Create and organize essential design documentation (BOMs, test criteria, equipment plans)
  • Contribute to research and development efforts aimed at improving the performance, reliability, and efficiency of laser systems.


What You Need:

  • A Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an ABET accredited four-year college or university.
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in a related engineering field with similar design and development duties.
  • Demonstrated experience with hands-on development and prototype builds, comfortable working in a cleanroom environment up to 50% of the time, desk jockeys need not apply.
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks for mechanical design and detailing.
  • Experience with FEA particularly related to thermal and fluid flow is a plus.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing precision mechanical components from various metals and ceramics.
  • A desire to contribute to product development from concept through to completion.

Leonardo offers a fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding environment in a high-tech industry. We are a company of innovators and executors dedicated to delivering the best solutions for our customers. If you're a motivated Mechanical Design Engineer ready to expand your skills and make a real impact, we encourage you to apply.


[NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.]

Leonardo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Here are the hiring process steps and what you can expect from us:

Step 1: Application Review:

Upon submitting your application, it is made available to the recruitment team to review and ensure you meet the basic qualifications.

Step 2: Interview:

If you have been identified to move forward in the process, you may be invited to participate in a one-on-one or panel interview. The interview format can be a phone call, in-person, or virtual meeting.

Step 3: Offer:

If you reach this stage of the interview process, congratulations! You will be provided an offer to join the Leonardo Electronics US Inc. team. The offer will include details about your salary, benefits package and start date.