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Entry Level Design Engineer Jobs in State College, PA

Entry Level Design Engineer information

See State College, PA salary details

$29.3K

$67.8K

$115.4K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level design engineer in State College, PA is $67,836.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,400.00 and $76,800.00 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 State College, PA? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in State College, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in State College, PA? For Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in State College, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in State College, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in State College, PA are:
What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Entry Level Design Engineer jobs? Cities near State College, PA with the most Entry Level Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Design Engineer job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,836 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Engineering Designer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$46K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for an entry-level Electrical Engineering Designer to join the Mechanical - Electrical Design and Drafting Service Center of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. In this role, you will assist in the design, analysis, manufacture, and procurement support of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) in support of ARL's research offices.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Support cutting-edge research utilizing PCB software to create schematics, PCBs, assemblies, library parts, bills of materials, and other documentation
  • Collaborate with technical staff on conceptual design of electro-mechanical systems
  • Assist with or facilitate material selection, packaging, tolerance analysis, manufacturing support, and cost projections efforts
  • Provide work status updates and present in design review meetings with senior staff
  • Assist and support senior technical staff evolving design methods and techniques, including templates, as required for new and evolving research programs
  • Assist and support the development or evaluation of new software tools and work processes to improve department capabilities in design, reporting, and efficiency of operation

Required skills/experience areas include:
  • Basic working knowledge of electronic circuits and components in analog and digital design
  • Microsoft Office and Adobe products
  • Previous success with collaborations in a diverse multi-disciplinary, team-oriented culture

Preferred experience areas include:
  • PCB design software, including component creation, schematic layout, and design
  • Altium software
  • Electronics industry knowledge from PCB design through manufacturing
  • Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and Configuration Management (CM)
  • Certification or familiarization with IPC standards

Your working location will be 100% on-site, but options may exist for a hybrid work from office and work from home scenario dependent upon research requirements. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Engineering Designer, Electrical (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Associate Degree2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Engineering Designer, Electrical (ARL) - Professional, this position requires:Associate DegreeNo prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.Required Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $46,800.00 - $77,304.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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