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Entry Level Engineering Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

The GEI Portland engineering practice provides services on a wide range of projects including ... ground treatment. Entry level engineers plan, observe and document field explorations and ...

This entry-level position is ideal for candidates looking to launch their careers in network engineering within a dynamic and fast-paced service provider environment. Under the guidance of senior ...

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Entry Level Engineering information

See Oregon salary details

$31.7K

$73.3K

$124.8K

How much do entry level engineering jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineering in Oregon is $73,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,400.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 solid educational background in engineering fundamentals, strong problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in mathematics, usually obtained through a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, industry-specific modeling programs, and basic project management systems is typically expected. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you integrate into engineering teams and adapt to new challenges. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate technical work, smooth collaboration, and ongoing professional development in a dynamic engineering environment.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry-level engineer?

As an entry-level engineer, you’ll typically begin by supporting more senior engineers on a variety of projects, which may include drafting designs, running simulations, conducting data analysis, or assisting with testing and troubleshooting. Your daily tasks will often involve collaborating with team members, participating in meetings, and learning industry-specific tools and software. Over time, you'll gain more responsibility, such as managing small project components or communicating directly with clients. This role is designed to help you build foundational technical skills while gaining exposure to different aspects of engineering within your organization.

What are entry level engineering jobs?

Entry level engineering jobs are positions designed for recent graduates or individuals with limited professional experience in the engineering field. These roles typically involve assisting senior engineers with projects, performing basic technical tasks, and gaining hands-on experience in a specific engineering discipline such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. Entry level engineers often receive on-the-job training and mentoring to develop their skills and advance their careers. These roles serve as a foundation for future growth and specialization within the engineering industry.

How to find an engineering job with no experience?

Entry level engineering positions often accept candidates with limited or no professional experience if they demonstrate relevant skills, such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or technical problem-solving, and hold a relevant degree or certification. Gaining internships, participating in engineering projects, and networking with industry professionals can improve chances of securing such roles. Tailoring your resume to highlight transferable skills and applying to companies with entry-level openings are also effective strategies.

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

AspectEntry Level EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; often requires licensure for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level positions in offices, labs, or manufacturing plantsDesign, analysis, testing in offices, labs, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, construction, technology companiesManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Entry Level Engineering typically involves foundational engineering tasks with a bachelor's degree, often in various disciplines, and is used across many industries. Mechanical Engineering is a specialized field focusing on design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, often requiring specific technical skills and licensure for advanced roles. Both roles share similar work environments but differ in specialization and scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineering jobs in Oregon? For Entry Level Engineering jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineering jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineering jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Entry Level Engineering jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Entry Level Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineering job openings in Oregon as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,335 per year, or $35.3 per hour.
Mechanical Test Engineer (Entry-Level)

Mechanical Test Engineer (Entry-Level)

IRPI

Wilsonville, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

IRPI develops advanced fluid, thermal, and life-support systems that make human space exploration possible. Partnering with NASA and commercial spaceflight leaders, we design, build, and test critical flight hardware tailored for microgravity and partial-gravity environments.
As a lean, high-performance team, we bridge the gap between first-principles research and operational spaceflight. Our engineers own the full project lifecycle-from early concept and laboratory prototyping to delivering validated hardware. Whether tackling propellant management, air revitalization, thermal control, or waste processing, we combine rigorous analysis with hands-on engineering to solve complex multidisciplinary problems and expand the boundaries of human presence in space.
Your Mission
We are looking for someone early in their career who already has hands-on experience building, instrumenting, or testing hardware through internships, research labs, student engineering teams, or prior work. This is not a purely theoretical role-successful candidates should be comfortable working with physical hardware, troubleshooting experiments, and learning quickly in a fast-paced lab environment.
Candidates should be able to point to specific projects or experiences where they personally built, tested, or debugged hardware systems. Applicants without meaningful hands-on engineering experience are unlikely to be a good fit for this role.
Working closely with experienced engineers with flight heritage, you'll gain exposure to the full development cycle-from prototype builds and additive manufacturing to lab testing and system validation. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys experimentation, problem-solving, and learning how complex hardware behaves in the real world.
If you're driven by curiosity, precision, and the desire to help prove out technologies that will fly in space, IRPI is where you can start building the future of space systems.
This position requires access to export-controlled technology. Only U.S. citizens or nationals are eligible.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support the development and execution of tests for mechanical, thermal, and fluid systems used in spaceflight hardware.
  • Design and assemble test setups, fixtures, and instrumentation to evaluate prototype and flight hardware performance.
  • Instrument hardware using sensors such as thermocouples, pressure transducers, and flow meters; ensure proper calibration and data acquisition.
  • Execute test procedures, monitor experiments, and collect high-quality engineering data.
  • Troubleshoot experimental setups, diagnose anomalies, and help resolve hardware or instrumentation issues during testing.
  • Process and analyze experimental data using tools such as Excel, MATLAB, or Python; generate clear plots and engineering conclusions.
  • Document test configurations, procedures, results, and deviations in formal test reports and internal documentation.
  • Assist with prototype fabrication using additive manufacturing and shop tools to build test fixtures and experimental hardware.
  • Assemble and prepare test articles and support hardware builds for development and flight programs.
  • Contribute to design reviews and technical discussions by providing feedback based on experimental observations and test results.
  • Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and external partners across NASA programs, commercial space customers, and suppliers.

This role is ideal for early-career engineers who enjoy hands-on experimentation, troubleshooting hardware, and learning how real systems behave through testing. Successful candidates are curious, detail-oriented, and motivated to develop strong experimental engineering skills while supporting technologies that will go to space.
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field (Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, etc.).
  • Strong fundamentals in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and mechanical design.
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience building, instrumenting, or testing hardware through internships, research labs, engineering teams (e.g., Formula SAE, rocketry, robotics), or similar projects.
  • Experience assembling prototypes, test rigs, or experimental hardware using common shop tools and fabrication methods.
  • Ability to collect, process, and interpret experimental data using tools such as Excel, MATLAB, or Python.
  • Familiarity with 3D CAD (SolidWorks preferred) for creating basic parts, assemblies, or test fixtures.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to methodically diagnose issues with hardware or experimental setups.
  • Clear and concise technical writing and communication skills for documenting tests and reporting results.
Preferred Qualifications
  • M.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with research or laboratory experience in fluids, thermal systems, or experimental testing.
  • Experience with test instrumentation and data acquisition systems (thermocouples, pressure transducers, flow meters, DAQ systems, LabVIEW, etc.).
  • 1-3 years of relevant experience through internships, co-ops, research assistantships, or significant hands-on student engineering projects.
  • Experience designing or building test fixtures, experimental apparatus, or prototype hardware.
  • Familiarity with data analysis, scripting, or automation using MATLAB or Python.
  • Experience with additive manufacturing, machining, or fabrication techniques used to build prototypes and test hardware.
  • Exposure to aerospace or high-reliability engineering practices (e.g., NASA standards, test procedures, configuration control, or structured test documentation).

Benefits
Compensation & Perks
  • Salary: $80,000 - $100,000, based on experience and degree
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical and dental insurance for employees and families
  • Retirement: Employer contributions to help you build long-term security
  • Time Off: Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holiday schedule
  • Family Support: Paid parental leave and flexibility to support work-life balance
  • Performance Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities tied to company and individual success
  • Professional Growth: Hands-on experience with flight hardware, mentorship from senior engineers, and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge space programs from day one
  • Mission-Driven Work: Be part of a team developing breakthrough space hardware that directly impacts the future of exploration
How to Apply
Be sure to answer all application questions fully and thoughtfully. Our hiring team reviews every application and may also consider you for other positions that align with your skills and interests.
If you have a thesis, dissertation, portfolio, or technical presentation, please include it A cover letter is optional but encouraged if it provides details not captured in your resume.
Equal Opportunity Employer
IRPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected category.