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Entry Level Mechanical Designer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Unifin SAS

Mechanical/Electrical Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

... designed respects the established specifications(s) Ensure that technical choices which may deviate from established specifications, or the implicit expectations of internal customers are documented ...

L3 Harris

Assembly C-Rochester,New York

Hilton, NY

$36.78/hr

L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work ... Assemble mechanical, optical, or electrical components and subassemblies following specified work ...

L3 Harris

Assembly C-Rochester,New York

Spencerport, NY

$36.78/hr

L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work ... Assemble mechanical, optical, or electrical components and subassemblies following specified work ...

L3 Harris

Assembly C

Rochester, NY

$36.78/hr

L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work ... Assemble mechanical, optical, or electrical components and subassemblies following specified work ...

L3Harris Technologies

Assembly C

Rochester, NY

$19.95 - $36.78/hr

L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work ... Assemble mechanical, optical, or electrical components and subassemblies following specified work ...

All JobsMechanical Designer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Designer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Designer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Entry Level Mechanical Designer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$17

$35

$50

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

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical designer in Rochester, NY is $35.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $41.30 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 are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Designer jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Mechanical Designer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Designer jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Entry Level Mechanical Designer job openings:
Entry Level Mechanical Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Designer job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,521 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Entry-level Mechanical Design Engineer

Salas O'Brien

Rochester, NY • On-site

$30 - $34.86/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Salas O'Brien rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 443 rated engineering

Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer
Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Department: Plumbing /Fire Protection
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
The Mechanical Design Engineer supports the design and development of HVAC and mechanical systems for building projects while building foundational skills toward advancement as a Project Engineer or Design Engineer. This role contributes to all phases of mechanical design, documentation, coordination, and engineering analysis under the guidance of senior staff.
The Mechanical Design Engineer plays an important role in delivering high-quality, coordinated system designs across a variety of building types.
Responsibilities
  • Assist in preparing contract documents, including drawings and specifications
  • Plan, schedule, and contribute to mechanical design tasks under the guidance of senior engineers
  • Perform conventional engineering calculations and develop elementary designs from schematic sketches
  • Support the design of HVAC and mechanical systems in accordance with company standards
  • Coordinate with Senior Engineers, Project Engineers, Designers, and Project Managers to support production
  • Assist with interdisciplinary coordination between mechanical, electrical, and plumbing teams
  • Communicate effectively to support consistent project progress
  • Participate in field investigations to collect data and verify site conditions
  • Support quality control efforts and incorporate design feedback from senior technical staff

Qualifications and Experience
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or Master of Science in a related field, or equivalent
  • Early-career to mid-level mechanical design experience preferred (internships, co-op, or 1-2 years professional experience)
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD and/or Revit preferred
  • Strong interest in HVAC and building mechanical system design
  • Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals and mechanical design principles

Travel
Travel to project sites may be required on an occasional basis. 5-10%
Location: Rochester, New York
Compensation & Benefits
The expected base salary range for this role is $30.00 - $34.86 USD per hour. This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime in accordance with applicable laws. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
This role is also eligible for 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.
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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.

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