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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

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Mechanical Engineer I

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience) * 0-3 years of experience (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software ...

Life Fitness

Mechanical Engineer I

Owatonna, MN · Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience) * 0-3 years of experience (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

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$17

$32

$53

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Minnesota is $32.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.35 and $36.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly internship experienceBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field, technical certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing, and project collaboration in engineering teamsCreating detailed drawings and models, often using CAD software, in design departments
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveDesign firms, manufacturing companies, product development
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Mechanical Engineers focus on applying engineering principles to design, analyze, and test mechanical systems, often working on projects from concept to prototype. Mechanical Designers primarily create detailed CAD drawings and models for manufacturing and assembly. While both roles require a mechanical engineering background, engineers typically engage in broader engineering tasks, whereas designers concentrate on detailed design work.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level mechanical engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry level mechanical engineer, you will typically be involved in a variety of projects that support more senior engineers. Your tasks may include creating and revising CAD drawings, assisting with prototype development, conducting basic calculations and simulations, and performing hands-on testing in the lab or on the production floor. You'll also collaborate closely with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and design. This exposure helps you build foundational technical skills while learning effective teamwork and communication in a professional engineering environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to project needs. These abilities are crucial for delivering accurate designs, meeting project deadlines, and integrating smoothly into engineering teams.

What does an entry level mechanical engineer do?

An entry level mechanical engineer assists in the design, development, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical devices, such as engines, tools, and machines. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to learn industry practices and gain hands-on experience. Their tasks often include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, creating prototypes, conducting experiments, and analyzing data. Entry level engineers also help prepare technical reports and documentation while collaborating with other engineering teams.
More about Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in MN? For Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,633 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer - Product Design & Development (Entry Level)

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Lake City, MN • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description:

Valley Craft is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer to support the design, development, and production of material handling, storage, and safety related products. This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer early in their career who wants exposure to real production hardware, manufacturing support, and product lifecycle ownership. The position emphasizes practical engineering execution, collaboration with manufacturing, and continuous product improvement.

Requirements:

Key Responsibilities:


Product Design & Engineering Execution

  • Design and engineer new products and custom solutions
  • Support existing product designs through design updates, documentation changes, and production support
  • Assist with engineering change requests (ECRs/ECOs) and implementation into production
  • Help diagnose production, quality, or field issues and support corrective actions.


CAD, BOM, and Documentation

  • Create and update 3D models, drawings, and BOMs using SolidWorks
  • Apply company drawing standards, tolerances, weld symbols, and basic GD&T
  • Maintain accurate part data, revisions, and metadata in PDM and MRP systems

Manufacturing & Shop Collaboration

  • Work closely with fabrication, welding, assembly, and quality teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and buildable
  • Support fixture design and basic prototyping as needed
  • Identify potential pinch points, cut hazards, or ergonomic concerns early and help implement improvements

Continuous Improvement

  • Participate in root-cause analysis and problem-solving efforts

Qualifications Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
  • Familiarity with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software
  • Basic understanding of manufacturing processes (welding, machining, sheet metal, fabrication)
  • Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
  • Good written and verbal communication skills

Qualifications Preferred

  • Internship, co-op, or hands-on experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment
  • Exposure to lift products, material-handling equipment, or industrial machinery
  • Familiarity with BOMs, revision control, and engineering documentation

Key Attributes for Success

  • Hands-On Mindset: Interested in how products are built, not just designed.
  • Team-Oriented: Works well with manufacturing, quality, and procurement partners.
  • Adaptable: Comfortable handling shifting priorities in a production environment.
  • Detail-Focused: Understands that accurate documentation prevents downstream issues.
  • Growth-Oriented: Eager to build engineering judgment through real-world experience.