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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation Jobs in Portland, OR

TSMG

B1 Licensed Aircraft Engineer

Vancouver, WA

... mechanical systems. Your key responsibilities will include troubleshooting, performing routine ... If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for aviation, this position offers an ...

TSMG

B1 Licensed Aircraft Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

... mechanical systems. Your key responsibilities will include troubleshooting, performing routine ... If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for aviation, this position offers an ...

TSMC

Equipment Engineer-Thin Film

Camas, WA · On-site

As an Entry-Level Equipment Engineer, you will be an integral part of one of our specialized equipment engineering teams (e.g., Lithography, Etch, Diffusion, Implanter, Chemical Mechanical Polishing ...

TSMC

Equipment Engineer-Thin Film

Camas, WA

As an Entry-Level Equipment Engineer, you will be an integral part of one of our specialized equipment engineering teams (e.g., Lithography, Etch, Diffusion, Implanter, Chemical Mechanical Polishing ...

Kiewit

Traveling Equipment Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

Requisition ID: 179509 Job Level: Entry Level Home District/Group: Kiewit Equipment Services ... mechanical reliability by delivering world-class equipment and service. Location Live where you ...

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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation information

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How much do entry level mechanical engineer aviation jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer aviation in Portland, OR is $35.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.56 and $39.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer in Aviation, you typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, strong analytical skills, and a solid grasp of engineering principles. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis tools, and knowledge of industry standards are commonly required. Effective communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for collaborating on multidisciplinary projects and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are vital for producing reliable, innovative solutions and maintaining rigorous safety standards in the aviation industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level mechanical engineer expect in the aviation industry?

As an entry-level mechanical engineer in aviation, you can expect to work on tasks such as assisting with the design and testing of aircraft components, preparing technical documentation, and supporting senior engineers in troubleshooting and maintenance activities. You'll likely be part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with electrical engineers, manufacturing specialists, and quality assurance personnel. Early projects may focus on drafting, modeling, or running simulations under supervision, giving you valuable exposure to industry standards and best practices. This hands-on experience helps build a strong foundation for advancement into more complex design or project management roles.

What does an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer in Aviation do?

An Entry Level Mechanical Engineer in Aviation is responsible for assisting in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of aircraft and related mechanical systems. Their tasks often include creating technical drawings, conducting analyses, supporting senior engineers, and ensuring that aviation parts and systems meet safety and performance standards. They may also work on troubleshooting issues, preparing reports, and collaborating with other engineering teams. This role provides hands-on experience and helps new engineers learn industry-specific practices and regulations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation vs Entry Level Aerospace Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Mechanical Engineer AviationEntry Level Aerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, possibly some internshipsBachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Aeronautical Engineering, internships preferred
Work EnvironmentAircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and design facilitiesAircraft design, testing labs, and aerospace manufacturing
Industry UsageUsed in aviation companies, defense contractors, and government agenciesCommon in aerospace firms, space agencies, and defense industries

Both roles involve engineering principles applied to aircraft, but Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation focuses more on aircraft systems and maintenance, while Entry Level Aerospace Engineer emphasizes aircraft design and space applications. They share similar credentials and work environments, making them closely related but distinct career paths within the aviation and aerospace industries.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation jobs in Portland, OR are:
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Aviation jobs near you
Mechanical Test Engineer (Entry-Level)

Mechanical Test Engineer (Entry-Level)

IRPI

Wilsonville, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 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.

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