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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Laurel, MS (NOW HIRING)

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an activity‑based costing approach. This role works directly with bills of material, drawings, and physical ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an activity‑based costing approach. This role works directly with bills of material, drawings, and physical ...

... design and programming Skills/Qualifications * KEY QUALIFICATIONS: • Two-year degree in ... Paid Holidays * Paid Vacations Salary Up to $35.00 per hour Career Level Required Entry Level ...

Entry Level Engineer information

See Laurel, MS salary details

$25.9K

$59.9K

$101.9K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Laurel, MS is $59,897.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $67,800.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Laurel, MS?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Laurel, MS are:

What cities near Laurel, MS are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities near Laurel, MS with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Laurel, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,897 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Junior Project Engineer | Entry-Level

Talent Edge Recruiting

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

$27 - $33/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Junior Project Engineer | Iuka, MS | $27–$33/Hour

Recent Engineering Graduates Encouraged to Apply!


Are you a recent engineering graduate looking for your first opportunity to put your technical skills to work?


Our client is looking for a Junior Project Engineer to join their established industrial fabrication team in Iuka, MS. This is a true entry-level engineering opportunity where you'll receive hands-on training and learn directly from experienced professionals while working on large-scale industrial projects.


You don't need years of fabrication experience to be successful here. If you have an engineering degree, can read technical drawings, pay attention to detail, and are eager to learn, we'd like to talk to you.


The company designs and fabricates large metal components used in power plants and other industrial facilities, with projects ranging from approximately $500K to $25M. You'll get exposure to real projects and see firsthand how engineering drawings move from design through fabrication.


What You'll Learn & Do

  • Review engineering, shop, and erection drawings before fabrication.
  • Learn how to identify drawing discrepancies, dimensional issues, and fabrication concerns.
  • Compare drawings against specifications, RFIs, and customer comments.
  • Work alongside experienced engineers, detailers, and quality professionals.
  • Learn how different materials, welds, bolts, and fabrication methods come together.
  • Assist with multiple projects and gain exposure to different stages of fabrication.
  • Use AutoCAD, Excel, Microsoft Project, and Tekla PowerFab.
  • Take on increasingly complex responsibilities as you develop your skills.


What We're Looking For

This is a Junior-level opportunity — we're willing to train the right person.

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related field
  • Recent graduates are encouraged to apply
  • Internship, co-op, or school project experience is a plus
  • Ability to read and understand technical drawings
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Comfortable learning new software and technical processes
  • Strong communication, work ethic, and willingness to learn


Experience with structural steel, industrial fabrication, AutoCAD, or similar environments is a plus — but not required.


Why This Is a Great First Engineering Job

You won't be thrown into a project and expected to figure everything out on your own.

You'll shadow experienced team members, receive hands-on training, and gradually take on more responsibility as you build your knowledge and confidence.

You'll get exposure to engineering, detailing, quality control, fabrication, and project management while working on projects that can reach $25M in value.


And the schedule is pretty great for an early-career engineer:

Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM–4:30 PM

Friday: 7:00 AM–11:00 AM


Compensation & Benefits

  • $27–$33/hour
  • Medical
  • Employer-paid dental
  • Employer-paid life & accident insurance
  • 401(k) with 2% company match
  • 2 weeks PTO, increasing to 3 weeks after 5 years
  • Sick time
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Potential profit sharing
  • Company truck when applicable


Build Your Engineering Career Here


If you're looking for a first engineering role where you can learn from experienced professionals, work on large-scale projects, and build practical skills that will stay with you throughout your career, this is an opportunity worth exploring.


Recent graduates and early-career engineers are encouraged to apply.