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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Ashland, KY (NOW HIRING)

Brooksource

Distribution Designer

Ceredo, WV · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Entry-Level Design Technician On-Site ABOUT THE ROLE Our client is seeking an Entry-Level Design Technician to support engineering projects through drafting, design, and field data collection. In ...

U.S. Army

General Labor

Ashland, KY · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

ARMY. Find more than 200 jobs in active duty across fields like mechanics, engineering, science ... Most positions are entry level. Requirements: * Must be a US citizen or an I-551 cardholder. * High ...

U.S. Army

General Labor

Portsmouth, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

ARMY. Find more than 200 jobs in active duty across fields like mechanics, engineering, science ... Most positions are entry level. Requirements: * Must be a US citizen or an I-551 cardholder. * High ...

U.S. Army

General Labor

Huntington, WV · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

ARMY. Find more than 200 jobs in active duty across fields like mechanics, engineering, science ... Most positions are entry level. Requirements: * Must be a US citizen or an I-551 cardholder. * High ...

Pro2Serve

Technical EntryPoint I

Portsmouth, OH · On-site

$30K - $35K/yr

... cost engineering, architecture and engineering (A-E), construction management, and physical ... Learn technical and/or administrative aspects of areas of study while supporting entry-level needs ...

Field Operations

Field Technician

Portsmouth, OH

$20.50/hr

In this entry-level role, we will equip you with the training you need to succeed and the ... Beyond our connectivity solutions, we also provide local news, programming and regional sports via ...

All JobsEngineer JobsEntry Level Engineer JobsEntry Level Engineer Jobs in Ashland, KY

Entry Level Engineer information

See Ashland, KY salary details

$26.3K

$60.9K

$103.6K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Ashland, KY is $60,876.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,200.00 and $68,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level engineer?

An entry-level engineer designs, builds, and maintains the functional aspects of a product, structure, or system for their specific engineering industry. All engineers start out in an entry-level position with fewer responsibilities until they gain work experience. Many start gaining experience through an internship or apprenticeship before moving into an entry-level position. An entry-level engineer job description relates to all of the education requirements, skills, detailed tasks, responsibilities that a company or organization requires for their specific engineering job. For example, civil engineers design, construct, and maintain large infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and airports. Electrical engineers design, monitor, and test electrical systems.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as CAD tools, MATLAB, or project management platforms, as well as relevant internships or certifications, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in a dynamic environment. These skills ensure you can contribute to projects, adapt to organizational needs, and grow professionally in the engineering field.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level engineers often face challenges such as adapting to new tools and technologies, understanding company-specific processes, and translating theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. It's also common to navigate working on multidisciplinary teams and learning effective communication with colleagues from different backgrounds. With guidance from mentors and proactive engagement, these challenges become valuable learning experiences that contribute to professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships helpfulBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; licensure optional for some roles
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, manufacturing plants, construction sites, labsDesign, testing, manufacturing, research and development
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions across various engineering sectorsMid to senior roles, but entry-level positions are common in manufacturing and design firms

Entry Level Engineers typically have a bachelor's degree and gain hands-on experience through internships. They work in diverse environments like design firms and manufacturing plants. Mechanical Engineers, while often requiring similar credentials, may start in entry-level roles but are more specialized in mechanical systems. Both roles are common in engineering industries, but the term 'Entry Level Engineer' is broader, encompassing various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering.

How do I get into entry level engineering with no experience?

Entry level engineering positions often require a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Gaining practical skills through internships, co-op programs, or certifications in tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB can improve your chances; demonstrating problem-solving abilities and a willingness to learn are also important for employers.

What is the easiest entry level engineer job to get into?

Entry-level engineering roles such as manufacturing, technician, or quality assurance positions are often considered easier to obtain due to lower experience requirements and high demand. These jobs typically require basic technical skills, familiarity with tools or software relevant to the field, and sometimes a relevant certification or associate degree.

Why is it so hard to find an entry-level engineer job?

Entry-level engineering jobs are competitive because employers often seek candidates with relevant internships, project experience, or technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or specific tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree and sometimes certifications, which can limit the pool of qualified applicants and make entry into the field more challenging.
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For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Ashland, KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Ashland, KY are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ashland, KY with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Ashland, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,876 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Engineer Associate - Engineer Senior

Ashland, KY • On-site

American Electric Power
Utilities • 10K+ employees

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 105 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 53 rated energy and utility

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People enjoy working here

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Learn more about American Electric Powerexternal

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Posting End Date
09-07-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The Engineer Associate is responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing entry level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
Job Description
*Successful Candidate must live within a 45-minute driving distance under normal driving conditions to the Robert E Matthews Service Center (Ashland, KY) or Pikeville (KY) Transmission Service Center.
Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the Engineer Associate level, with increased educational, skill, experience and certification requirements for higher level Engineers and Engineer Seniors.
Engineer Associate
What You'll Do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
  • Technical Expertise: Possesses entry-level knowledge and experience in the application of theory to solve well-defined problems or provide analysis, with guidance from higher-level engineers. Assists higher-level engineers in handling well-defined portions of more complex problems and analyses. Exhibits a fundamental understanding of standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with pertinent equipment, materials, systems and business processes.

  • Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others as required to resolve routine engineering tasks. Demonstrates working knowledge of appropriate policies and procedures; however, activities are generally monitored by higher-level employees to ensure work is performed in accordance with established guidelines. Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher-level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in both supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary. Demonstrates willingness and capabilities to assume leadership roles.

  • Planning & Organization Ability: Provides input to routine project planning documents related to scheduling and understands the use of scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Monitors project status and recommends action accordingly. Prepares cost estimates using established standards. Develops understanding of the workflow for routine engineering projects. Accomplishes work according to plans and schedules established by higher-level employees.

  • Problem Solving & Initiative: Actively seeks out information and understanding of engineering problems and solution techniques applicable to area of responsibility. Applies basic techniques to perform analysis associated with the resolution of routine technical problems. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities and presenting new ideas and new approaches.

  • Communication: Assists and participates in the preparation of reports and technical papers. Assimilates information and instructions readily. Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing and presents ideas clearly. Listens to and understands instructions, and requests clarification as required.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Begins networking with peers to share information and encourage cooperation. Understands the agendas and perspectives of others. Develops effective give-and-take relationship. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.

  • Decision Making: Knows which decisions they are authorized to make. Develops decision-making skills under guidance of higher-level employees and makes routine decisions subject to review and contributes to team decision-making.

  • Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates an attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend upon their organizational unit's work. Applies economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Pursues effective ways to protect and enhance the environment while providing reliable electricity at a competitive cost. Active participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the department.

What We're Looking For:
Minimum Requirements
  • This is an entry level position for new graduates with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*; Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.
  • Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

*VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a Non-ABET accredited program
Engineer
Job Summary
The Engineer is responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing intermediate level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
What You'll Do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
  • Technical Expertise: Possesses intermediate level knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analysis. Demonstrates competency in analytical techniques necessary to handle assignments of moderate complexity. (e.g., by dividing the problem into component steps, and performing the analysis necessary to complete each step). Exhibits ability to understand interrelationship between systems and component equipment. Demonstrate ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.

  • Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entities as necessary to complete routine activities. Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees.

  • Planning & Organization Ability: Coordinates the development of input necessary to forecast costs for the routine projects, improvements requisitions, etc. Uses scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Initiates corrective action when project objectives are not being met.

  • Problem Solving & Initiative: Resolves and initiates solutions to routine problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin. Demonstrates ability to identify problems that are beyond the normal routine. Demonstrates ability and desire to seek out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.

  • Communication: Develops, reviews, or presents technical reports such as improvement requisitions, studies, and analyses in as clear, concise and effective fashion.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Is an active team member. Networks with peers inside and outside the AEP system. Identifies key stakeholders. Uses informal network to get things done. Resolves conflict, builds consensus.

  • Decision Making: Makes decisions subject to review within established policies and procedures. Makes decisions that affect the work of the team. Aware of risks. Demonstrates the ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.

  • Business Awareness & Characteristics: Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit. Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process. Is proficient in the application and use of economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Develops an understanding of utility regulation and financing.

What We're Looking For:
Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* along with two or more years of related engineering experience.
  • Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.
  • Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Acceptable Alternative
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.

**VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited program
Engineer Senior
Job Summary
The Engineer Senior is responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing complex engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
What You'll Do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
  • Technical Expertise: Exhibits journey level proficiency plus advanced knowledge that enables the engineer to serve as a leader within the assigned organization. Keeps abreast of new products, developments, technologies, procedures and equipment. Understands and analyzes interrelationships between systems and component equipment. Interprets codes and regulations and also develops standards relevant to the area of assignment.

  • Leadership & Guidance: Provides guidance and exercises judgment and discretion in providing guidance and direction to other Engineers. Leads, facilitates and coordinates work activities of others within the work group, team, department, corporate entity, or those external to the company as required to perform all routine engineering work. Ensures all work activities are performed in accordance with the policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and complies with the regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Promotes engineering professionalism and standards. Coordinates and conducts training sessions.

  • Planning & Organization Ability: Participates in the development of plans by establishing measurable goals, objectives and requirements for specific areas of responsibility. Coordinates the development of input necessary to establish projected cost of all projects. Is proficient in use of scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Identifies and initiates appropriate corrective action when objectives are not being met.

  • Problem Solving & Initiative: Identifies, clarifies, resolves, and initiates solutions to routine and/or complex problems that sometimes involve analysis of inadequate or conflicting data. Demonstrates the ability to divide problems into component steps. Consistently looks for and develops opportunities and presents new ideas and approaches.

  • Communication: Coordinates the work of other engineers in an efficient and effective manner. Develops, reviews or prepares reports on complex technical subjects clearly, concisely and effectively, in a manner suitable for presentation to management, professional societies, regulatory bodies, etc. Leads and facilitates meetings effectively. Interpersonal Skills: Possess collaborative and consensus building skills. Functions as a team leader and member. Networks upward and downward in several disciplines inside and outside the AEP system. Leverages network to get things done.

  • Decision Making: Makes decisions affecting plans and goals based on analysis of uncertain input and outcomes. Uses diverse approaches to make decisions in the absence of a definite framework or where few precedents exist. Can handle conflicting interests related to approaches on projects or studies. Analyzes options and risks and possesses the experience and knowledge to assess the risk of decisions and act accordingly. Makes decisions that affect the operations or results of the department and may have some impact on a major project.

  • Business Awareness & Characteristics: Exhibits an awareness of AEP's competitive position and how business decisions impact their organizational unit. Understands the specific goals and objectives of their individual organizational unit and is proficient in establishing measurable goals and objectives. Effectively manages project budgets using cost management techniques and understands how their decisions and recommendations impact AEP's expenses and revenues. Demonstrates an awareness of profit incentives, optimizing growth of customers' businesses and using our services to attract new business.

What We're Looking For:
Minimum Requirements
  • Four (4) or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*
  • Two (2) years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*;
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferred
  • Individuals with a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Acce
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About American Electric Power

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AEP Energy is a certified competitive retail electricity and natural gas supply provider. We proudly serve residential, small business and commercial and industrial customers. AEP Energy has over 100 years of industry experience with backing from our parent company, American Electric Power (AEP). AEP is one of the largest electric energy companies in the United States and ranked 204 of the Fortune 500.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1906

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