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Entry Level Engineering Jobs in The Dalles, OR (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Engineering information

See The Dalles, OR salary details

$31.8K

$73.6K

$125.3K

How much do entry level engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineering in The Dalles, OR is $73,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,700.00 and $83,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level engineer?

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.

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 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 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.

How to get hired as an entry-level engineer?

To get hired as an entry-level engineer, candidates should obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, develop practical skills through internships or projects, and demonstrate proficiency with industry tools and software. Building a strong resume that highlights technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience increases employment prospects. Certifications such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) can also enhance job opportunities.

How to 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, certifications, or personal projects can improve your chances, and demonstrating proficiency with tools like CAD or programming languages can be beneficial for entry-level candidates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in The Dalles, OR?

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in The Dalles, OR are:

What cities near The Dalles, OR are hiring for Entry Level Engineering jobs?

Cities near The Dalles, OR with the most Entry Level Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineering job openings in The Dalles, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,636 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Oven Operator I

Applied Aerospace and Defense - White Salmon

White Salmon, WA • On-site

$21.50 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Description:

Precision. Pride. Performance.

Built in the Gorge. Flown Around the World.

At Applied Aerospace and Defense – White Salmon, we engineer advanced composite solutions that serve aerospace, defense, industrial, marine, automotive, and other high-performance industries. Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, just one hour east of Portland, this is where cutting-edge manufacturing meets an unmatched lifestyle.

Our team takes pride in building world-class products, solving complex engineering challenges, and continuously improving the way we work. If you are driven by innovation, hands-on problem solving, and the desire to create equipment that powers next-generation manufacturing, we invite you to join us.

OVERVIEW OF POSITION:

The primary purpose of the Oven Operator I position is to support the curing of composite components by preparing parts, loading them into production ovens, monitoring basic cycle parameters, and completing post-process tasks according to established work instructions. This role ensures parts are processed accurately, safely, and efficiently while learning the foundational skills required for advancement within thermal processing operations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Prep & Load

  • Clean and prepare parts for oven processing
  • Read and verify job travelers, part numbers, and part quantities
  • Assist in loading parts onto racks, trays, or carts following correct setup instruction
  • Help with basic placement of probes or fixtures when required

Oven Processing Support

  • Follow standard work instructions to begin and monitor curing cycles
  • Observe time and temperature readings and notify a supervisor of abnormalities
  • Perform simple checks during the curing cycle under direction
  • Ask for clarification whenever unsure about a process or setup


Unload & Post-Process

  • Remove basic probes or fixtures
  • Clean parts as instructed
  • Move parts to the next stage in the workflow
  • Enter accurate information in manufacturing logs and digital time systems


Quality & Safety

  • Wear required PPE and follow safety protocols
  • Maintain clean work areas and support general housekeeping
  • Support standard work, continuous improvement, and teamwork


Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Basic math skills
  • Detail orientated and able to multitask
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
  • Willingness to learn technical manufacturing processes
  • Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office preferred)


Experience Level

  • Entry-level
  • No prior aerospace experience required
  • Manufacturing experience helpful but not required


Working Conditions

  • Indoor production floor
  • Exposure to noise, equipment, and composite materials
  • Standing/walking for extended periods
  • Lifting up to 30 lbs
  • Collaborative workspace environment


PPE Provided

  • Ear protection
  • Safety glasses or goggles
  • Gloves
  • Face shield
  • Respirator (as required)
  • Protective apron


Why Join Applied Aerospace?

  • 4/10 Schedule – Three-day weekends every week
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage
  • 401(k) Program
  • Paid Time Off
  • Career Growth in a High-Tech Aerospace Environment
  • Work Where Others Vacation – Columbia River Gorge Lifestyle

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as assigned, consistent with business needs and applicable law.

Due to the nature of our work and applicable U.S. export control laws, this position requires International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) eligibility. Only individuals who qualify as a “U.S. person” as defined by ITAR (U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, refugees, or asylees), unless specified otherwise within job description, are eligible for employment.

Applied Aerospace & Defense (“AA&D”) is committed to equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants who require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to disability, medical condition, or other protected reason may contact the Human Resources Department. Requests will be reviewed in accordance with applicable law.

Where required by law, the applicable pay range and a summary of benefits and other compensation for this position will be provided.

Requirements: