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Early Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Persona AI

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

About the Role As an early Mechanical Engineer at Persona, you will help shape the design of Persona's humanoid robots while helping set the engineering culture of the company. We're looking for ...

GITAI

Mechanical Engineer, Interceptor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

We are still early. The systems, the company, and the market are all being built at the same time ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.

GITAI

Mechanical Engineer, Interceptor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

We are still early. The systems, the company, and the market are all being built at the same time ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.

GITAI

Mechanical Engineer, Interceptor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $155K/yr

You will own interceptor hardware from early mechanical layouts through detailed design, prototype ... You will perform the calculations needed to support sound engineering decisions, but the main work ...

Pae

Early Career Mechanical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site +1

Early Career Mechanical Engineer Description: As an Early Career Mechanical Engineer you will support the design and analysis of building mechanical systems for industrial and government facilities.

Amentum

Early Career Mechanical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Early Career Mechanical Engineer Description: As an Early Career Mechanical Engineer you will support the design and analysis of building mechanical systems for industrial and government facilities.

W3Global Inc.

Mechanical Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$100K - $120K/yr

Mechanical Engineer - Construction We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to support the ... Lead internal commissioning efforts and help incorporate commissioning requirements early in the ...

BendPak Inc

Mechanical Engineer

Santa Paula, CA · On-site

This includes identifying technical issues early, communicating risks and delays, developing ... Professional mechanical engineering experience involving structural steel products, machinery ...

Mackin Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

North Lima, OH · Hybrid

Mackin Engineers & Consultants is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Mechanical Engineer to ... This role will contribute to projects from early planning and design through construction support ...

Mackin Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

North Lima, OH · On-site

Mackin Engineers & Consultants is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Mechanical Engineer to ... This role will contribute to projects from early planning and design through construction support ...

WSP

Early Career Mechanical Engineer

Indian Land, SC · On-site

WSP is currently initiating a search for an Early Career Mechanical or Civil Engineer for our Fort Mill, SC office. Be involved in projects with our Power Delivery Overhead Transmission Line ...

Fort Point

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Charleston, WV

$101K - $134K/yr

The Mechanical Engineer will design and execute mechanical systems for various industrial capital projects, from early concept development through detailed engineering, construction, and ...

TAP Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

This role is well-suited for an early-career engineer who enjoys hands-on work, technical problem-solving, and collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams. The Mechanical Engineer will ...

Square Peg Hires

Mechanical Engineer

Valencia, CA · On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

... early design verifications • Evaluate, select, and procure mechanical equipment and materials for prototypes • Coordinate with engineering technicians for prototype assembly and testing • ...

L&T Technology Services

Mechanical Engineer

Lafayette, IN · On-site

This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career mechanical engineer to work in a collaborative engineering environment and contribute to real-world mechanical design and manufacturing projects.

Posted today

Airswift

Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Early-career professional or recent graduate with up to 3 years of experience * Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals * Interest in design, analysis, testing, and problem-solving * Ability to ...

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Early Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do early mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for early mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an early mechanical engineer do?

An Early Mechanical Engineer typically assists in designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing mechanical devices or systems under the guidance of senior engineers. Their responsibilities often include creating technical drawings, performing basic calculations, supporting prototype development, and troubleshooting issues during the project lifecycle. This role is usually for recent graduates or those with less than three years of experience, providing foundational exposure to engineering processes and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by early mechanical engineers in collaborative projects?

Early Mechanical Engineers often encounter challenges in balancing technical tasks with effective teamwork, especially when working on multidisciplinary projects. Coordinating with experienced engineers, designers, and other departments can require strong communication and adaptability. It's common to face steep learning curves with new design tools or industry standards, but most teams provide mentorship and regular feedback sessions to help new engineers progress. Building confidence in presenting ideas and receiving constructive criticism is also a key part of early career development.

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

To thrive as an Early Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, 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 basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and willingness to learn make you stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively designing, analyzing, and improving mechanical systems while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Early Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Designer?

AspectEarly Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internship experienceBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field, CAD proficiency
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, R&D departments, engineering firmsDesign offices, CAD labs, manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing companies, tech startupsProduct design companies, manufacturing firms, automotive and aerospace industries

Early Mechanical Engineers focus on applying engineering principles during the initial design and development phases, often working on conceptualization and analysis. Mechanical Designers primarily create detailed CAD models and drawings for manufacturing. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Early Mechanical Engineers typically engage in broader engineering tasks, whereas Mechanical Designers specialize in detailed design work.

How do I get my first job as an early mechanical engineer?

To secure your first job as an early mechanical engineer, obtain a relevant degree such as mechanical engineering, develop practical skills through internships or projects, and familiarize yourself with CAD software and industry standards. Building a strong portfolio and networking with professionals can also improve job prospects.
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What states have the most Early Mechanical Engineer jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Early Mechanical Engineer jobs look for?

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Early Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Early Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Persona AI

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer
Department: Hardware
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: Houston, TX
Travel: 10%
Who We Are
Persona AI is building humanoid robots for the most demanding environments in heavy industry - shipyards, steel mills, fabrication facilities, and offshore platforms - performing welding, grinding, maintenance, inspection, and material-handling work that is dangerous, physically demanding, and increasingly difficult to staff.
We are backed by leading strategic and financial investors and engaged with global industrial leaders across Korea, Japan, the United States, and Singapore. Korea is the center of gravity for our early commercial strategy, anchored by relationships with the world's leading shipbuilders and steelmakers. Our work spans both the robot platform itself and the systems, partners, and playbooks required to deploy it at scale.
Why Join Persona AI?
  • We offer competitive compensation, a performance-based bonus, 99% employer covered medical benefits, early-stage equity, competitive PTO, and a company-wide paid winter break between December 24th and January 2nd.
  • You'll shape technology that's redefining the possibilities of robotics and human interaction.
  • Work alongside passionate teammates who value creativity, and continuous learning.

About the Role
As an early Mechanical Engineer at Persona, you will help shape the design of Persona's humanoid robots while helping set the engineering culture of the company. We're looking for exceptional people who dream big, thrive on challenges, and love seeing their designs come to life - from initial sketches through CAD modeling, prototyping, manufacturing, testing, and deployment on real industrial job sites.
We are primarily interested in candidates who have shipped products in the fields of autonomy, robotics, consumer products, medical devices, automotive, or aerospace.
What You Will Be Doing
  • Create and refine mechanical designs for advanced humanoid robotics, including actuators, manipulators, and integrated systems.
  • Own your designs from initial sketches through CAD modeling, prototyping, manufacturing, testing, and deployment.
  • Conduct simulations, structural analysis, and performance evaluations to optimize system functionality.
  • Generate comprehensive documentation, including CAD drawings, block diagrams, test plans, fabrication, and assembly instructions.
  • Interface with external manufacturing partners to optimize designs for manufacturing, testing, and assembly.
  • Engage hands-on in the lab, transforming your designs from ideas to production systems through rapid, iterative development cycles.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teammates (electrical, software, controls, UX/UI, and industrial designers) to ensure seamless integration across the product.
  • Solve fascinating engineering challenges daily, pushing the boundaries of robotics technology.

What We Are Looking For:
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, Robotics, Biomechatronics, Mechatronics, or related fields.
  • 5+ years of experience (3+ years with advanced degree) designing mechanical systems in consumer products, robotics, aerospace, medical, automotive, or similar fields.
  • Proven track record shipping products to market, ideally at scale.
  • Experience designing for high-volume mass manufacturing DFM processes such as injection molding, sheet metal, stamping, casting, composites, or CNC machining.
  • Practical hands-on experience with prototyping tools, manufacturing techniques, and material selection.
  • Proficient CAD user (Onshape, SolidWorks, Catia, Creo, Fusion, etc.) with a passion for precise, elegant, scalable design.
  • Strong grasp of mechanical engineering fundamentals.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the tenacity to tackle complex challenges, comfortable performing detailed engineering analyses (FEA, hand calculations, etc.).
  • A friendly, collaborative mindset, strong communication skills, and excitement to work hands-on in a dynamic, supportive team environment; design without ego.
  • Working understanding of tolerance analysis and GD&T.
  • Keen attention to detail and craftsmanship, including fit and finish.

Bonus Skills:
  • Hands-on experience with humanoid robotics, exoskeletons, or other articulated mechanical systems.
  • Enjoys detailed design of complex surface geometry.
  • Experience designing precision mechanisms, actuators, tight tolerance components.
  • Familiarity with motors, actuators, transmissions (planetary, cycloidal, strain-wave), bearings, or cable drives.
  • Experience designing cable harnesses, wire routing, or flexible PCBs.
  • Ability to analyze thermal systems (hand calculations or FEA).
  • Proficiency in C, Python, MATLAB, or similar analytical tools.
  • Familiarity with classical or modern controls.
  • Preference toward working in interdisciplinary, fast-paced environments.
  • Experience collaborating with industrial designers, human factors, or UX/UI teams.
  • Skilled at complex surface geometry and tight packaging constraints in CAD.
  • Comfortable working in a machine shop (mill, lathe, etc.).

Persona AI 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, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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