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Entry Level Mechanical Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Mechanical Designer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects.

Mechanical Designer As a Mechanical Designer, you will create shop drawings for custom commercial kitchen equipment, including floor plans, elevations, and other specifications. Solid modeling skills ...

An Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer job in Lynn, MA is currently available at Belcan. This is a ... Experience designing Aerospace or equivalent types of mechanical systems within aircraft ...

Mechanical Designer / Drafter (Temporary) This temporary Mechanical Designer / Drafter role ... One or more years of experience as an entry-level mechanical drafter or in a closely related ...

The Mechanical Designer supports the design, development, and documentation of mechanical systems ... design experience; entry-level candidates with strong internship or co-op experience will be ...

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Firm Overview Do more than just build! At dbHMS, we are a ... creating designs for all kind of spaces. Our dynamic work environment provides the perfect ...

This position is well-suited for entry-level designers with a 2-year degree as well as experienced ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline preferred for more experienced ...

This position is well-suited for entry-level designers with a 2-year degree as well as experienced ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline preferred for more experienced ...

This position is well-suited for entry-level designers with a 2-year degree as well as experienced ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline preferred for more experienced ...

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Entry Level Mechanical Designer information

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How much do entry level mechanical designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical designer in the United States is $35.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $41.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Mechanical Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Mechanical Designer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and PTC Creo, as well as knowledge of drafting standards, is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, effective problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with team members help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate designs, streamlined workflows, and the successful development of mechanical products.

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

AspectEntry Level Mechanical DesignerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, manufacturing plants, labsDesign, analysis, testing, and project management in various settings
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, product design, automotive, aerospaceEngineering consulting, R&D, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive

Entry Level Mechanical Designers focus on creating detailed drawings and CAD models under supervision, while Mechanical Engineers handle analysis, testing, and project oversight. Both roles require a background in mechanical engineering principles, but Mechanical Engineers typically have more responsibilities and advanced credentials.

What does an Entry Level Mechanical Designer do?

An Entry Level Mechanical Designer assists in creating and modifying technical drawings and designs for mechanical systems and components. They typically use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop detailed schematics and collaborate with engineers to ensure designs meet project specifications and standards. Their responsibilities may also include conducting basic calculations, preparing documentation, and supporting the design team throughout the project lifecycle. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those new to the field, offering opportunities to learn and grow within the mechanical engineering industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Entry Level Mechanical Designer expect to handle in their first year?

As an Entry Level Mechanical Designer, you’ll typically start by supporting senior engineers and designers on tasks such as creating 2D and 3D CAD models, updating technical drawings, and assisting with design revisions based on feedback. You may also get involved in prototype assembly, basic calculations, and preparing documentation for manufacturing or client review. Collaborative work is common, as you’ll interact regularly with engineers, project managers, and other designers to ensure design accuracy and project deadlines are met. This hands-on experience provides a strong foundation for advancing into more complex design and project management roles over time.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Designer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Mechanical Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Designer jobs? The most popular types of Mechanical Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Mechanical Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Mechanical Designer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 36% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,480 per year, or $35.8 per hour.
Entry-level Mechanical Designer

Entry-level Mechanical Designer

Salas O'Brien

Vista, CA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

261st of 357 rated engineering


Job description

Entry Level Mechanical Designer
At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That's why we're committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.
Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career-and they'll receive great total rewards along the way.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Mechanical Designer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate will assist in the design, analysis, and testing of mechanical components and systems, contributing to the development of innovative products and solutions. This role provides an excellent opportunity for professional growth and hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Design and Development:
    • Assist in the design and development of mechanical components, systems, and products using Revit software
    • Participate in brainstorming sessions and contribute to innovative engineering solutions.
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure design requirements are met.
  • Analysis and Testing:
    • Conduct basic engineering calculations and analysis (e.g., heat loads, air flows) to ensure the integrity and performance of designs.
    • Support the troubleshooting and optimization of mechanical systems.
  • Documentation and Reporting:
    • Prepare and maintain detailed engineering documentation, including design specifications, plans, and reports.
    • Assist in the preparation of technical presentations and project status updates.
  • Project Support:
    • Collaborate with senior engineers and project managers to ensure timely completion of project milestones.
    • Provide support in the selection and evaluation of materials, components, and equipment processes.
    • Assist in quality control and assurance processes during production.

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Educational Background:
    • Bachelor's or Master's degree in an Engineering field.
  • Skills:
    • Proficiency in Revit software.
    • Basic understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science.
    • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
    • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
    • Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience:
    • Internship or co-op experience in a mechanical engineering role is a plus, but not required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., ASHRAE, IMC).
  • Basic knowledge of HVAC Design.

Location: Vista, CA
Travel: Up to 10% to mainly local client sites.
Compensation & Benefits
The expected base salary range for this role is $75,000 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses, equity participation, and a comprehensive U.S.-based benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Third-Party Agency Notice
Salas O'Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.