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Entry Level Design Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Planning Engineer - I/II

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

Day Utility Planning Engineer - I/II Toth & Associates is hiring an entry-level Utility Planning ... Develop design documentation, drawings, and project data for assigned projects; review ...

Transportation Planner I

Vancouver, WA ยท On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... as an Entry Level Transportation Planner/Design Engineer. In this position, you will play a crucial role in supporting the development and implementation of multimodal transportation plans and ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Design Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$31.8K

$73.6K

$125.1K

How much do entry level design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level design engineer in Portland, OR is $73,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level design engineer do?

An Entry Level Design Engineer assists with creating and developing designs for products, structures, or systems, often under the supervision of senior engineers. They typically use computer-aided design (CAD) software to draft blueprints, modify existing designs, and perform basic engineering calculations. Their role may also involve collaborating with manufacturing teams, preparing documentation, and ensuring designs meet required standards and specifications. This position provides hands-on experience and learning opportunities for those starting their engineering careers.

What are some common challenges new entry level design engineers face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry Level Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to industry-specific software, understanding project requirements, and effectively communicating design ideas to both technical and non-technical team members. Building strong relationships with mentors, proactively seeking feedback, and dedicating time to learn design tools and standards can help ease the transition. Embracing a growth mindset and actively participating in team discussions can also accelerate learning and confidence in the role.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and deliver accurate designs. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable and innovative engineering solutions that meet project requirements.

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

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

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Design Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,559 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Lake Oswego, OR โ€ข On-site

Shannon & Wilson Inc
Civil Engineering Constructionย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description:

Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental and natural resource services for clients. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting and construction conditions. 


We are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment and utilizing the most innovative science practices in all our work. 


Responsibilities:

  • Perform geotechnical engineering and geological analyses and calculations. 
  • Prepare and write engineering and other reports. 
  • Perform field explorations, collection of samples, geologic reconnaissance, and mapping. 
  • Perform with construction observation on job sites and prepare summary logs and other documentation. 
  • Perform geotechnical lab testing and communicate results. 
  • Interact and communicate with clients, vendors, and staff at all levels. 
  • Support marketing activities, including preparation of cost proposals. 
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson’s Quality Assurance policy. 
  • Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson’s Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies. 
  • Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor. 
Requirements:
  • BS in Civil Engineering; and MS or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering strongly preferred. 
  • 0 - 6 years of experience in Geotechnical Engineering. 
  • Have obtained or in process of receiving a Engineer-in-Training Certificate 
  • On track to obtain Professional Engineering (PE) License. 
  • Work experience (and/or coursework) in one or more of the following areas: soil mechanics; rock mechanics; rock and soil slope stability; shallow and deep foundations; tunneling; microtunneling; seismic design; earthquake engineering; and retaining structures. 
  • Some knowledge or experience of field/construction observation in one or more of the following areas: logging geotechnical explorations, observation of pile driving operations, observations of earthwork activities, installation and recording of geotechnical instrumentation, field reconnaissance, and/or underground work. 
  • Excellent writing, organizational, and communication skills.  
  • Personable, flexible, and professional demeanor.  
  • The ability to work independently with the appropriate level of OR minimal supervision.  
  • The willingness and ability to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.   
  • A valid driver license and insurable driving record.  
  • Basic computer skills: MS Word, Excel (required); MS Access (desirable).  
  • Critical thinking and analysis.  
  • Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds.  
  • Working in all weather conditions, on uneven terrain.  
  • The ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites per project needs and job sites locally and out of state 

Level Placement

 Typically, depending on an applicant’s education, experience, overall abilities, alignment with the needs of the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, an Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer typically would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Professional I, II, III, or IV level.


Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:  

  • Employee stock ownership  
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).  
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA  
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees (prorated for part-time employment) based on year’s of experience 
  • Since sick leave accrues based on hours worked might be best to list as an hourly accrual, or plan to update for PT postings. 
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday  
  • Paid volunteer day  
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty  
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave  
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program 
  • Mentorship Program 
  • Tuition Reimbursement 
  • Free parking  

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.

Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.