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Entry Level Mechanical Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GCX

Mechanical Engineer - Entry Level

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

... Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team. This role is well suited for early ... Support prototype, testing, verification, and documentation of designs. * Collaborate with cross ...

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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 9, 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:
Entry Level Mechanical Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Designer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 31% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,480 per year, or $35.8 per hour.
Mechanical Designer/Drafter I

Mechanical Designer/Drafter I

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Norwich, CT

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

The Mechanical Designer/Drafter I is an entry-level position that supports mechanical design and drafting efforts for United States Navy submarine programs. Under the guidance of senior design personnel, the Designer/Drafter I develops and updates technical drawings and models, conducts ship checks, and assists with shipboard installation and mechanical design documentation in accordance with Navy, DoD, and company standards.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct ship checks on United States Navy submarines to collect field data and verify existing configurations.
  • Research submarine construction using ship construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
  • Create 3D solid models to support and optimize mechanical designs under supervision.
  • Develop 2D mechanical component and assembly-level drawings in accordance with applicable standards.
  • Develop, update, and maintain Lists of Material (LOM).
  • Update and revise drawings using redline input from senior Designer/Drafter personnel.
  • Support senior Designer/Drafter personnel with the development of shipboard installation and arrangement drawings.
  • Apply basic mechanical drafting principles and engineering concepts to support design solutions.
  • Implement Standard Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) practices in accordance with ASME Y14.5 standards.
  • Perform self-checks of drawings and models to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance prior to submittal.
  • Participate in internal design reviews and incorporate review comments into assigned drawings.
  • Maintain organized electronic design files and adhere to configuration management and document control processes.
  • Communicate effectively with engineers, designers, and program team members to clarify design intent and task requirements.
  • Track assigned tasks, meet schedule-driven deliverables, and provide status updates to senior design staff or project leaders.
  • Follow company quality management system (QMS) procedures and support continuous improvement efforts.
  • Comply with all safety, security, export control, and confidentiality requirements when working in office, shipyard, and onboard environments.

Qualifications:

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) Secret Clearance.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required for the purpose of obtaining and holding a U.S. security clearance.
  • High School Diploma or GED, plus a Computer-Aided Design/Drafting Certificate.

Experience Requirements

  • 1–2 years of business-related experience in one or more of the following:
  • Creating 2D drawings using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software
  • Creating 3D drawings using solid modeling design software

Technical Skills

  • Basic understanding of mechanical drafting principles, manufacturing processes, and drawing conventions.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering sketches, specifications, and technical drawings.
  • Experience with Autodesk AutoCAD® and Autodesk Inventor® is desired but not required.
  • SOLIDWORKS® experience is acceptable.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.
  • Experience using Adobe PDF tools.

Physical Requirements

  • Physically capable of conducting ship checks aboard United States Navy submarines.
  • Comfortable working in confined spaces.
  • Ability to climb vertical ladders ranging from 20 to 25 feet unassisted.

Work Environment

  • Work may be performed in office, shipyard, and onboard submarine environments.
  • May require travel to Navy facilities and shipyards.


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