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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Decatur, AL

Raytheon

RF Mechanical Engineer II

Huntsville, AL · On-site

This is an entry-level Mechanical Engineer position for an individual with educational experience and professional interest in the application of technical mechanical standards, principles, concepts ...

Raytheon

RF Mechanical Engineer II

Huntsville, AL · On-site

This is an entry-level Mechanical Engineer position for an individual with educational experience and professional interest in the application of technical mechanical standards, principles, concepts ...

MHI

Mechanic I - Entry Level

Decatur, AL · On-site

... engineering specifications; troubleshooting malfunctions. * Locates sources of problems by observing mechanical devices in operation; listening for problems; using precision measuring and testing ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Decatur, AL

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$15

$29

$49

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Decatur, AL is $29.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.09 and $33.56 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.

Is 32 too old to become an engineer?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions are open to individuals of various ages, and starting a career at 32 is common. Many engineers begin their careers after gaining relevant education, certifications, or skills, regardless of age, and employers value experience and knowledge. Age should not be a barrier to pursuing a mechanical engineering role if you have the necessary qualifications and skills.

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 entry-level mechanical engineering jobs?

Entry-level mechanical engineering jobs typically include roles such as design engineer, manufacturing engineer, or quality engineer, often requiring a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. These positions involve tasks like CAD modeling, testing, and assisting in product development, with common tools including AutoCAD and SolidWorks. They usually offer on-the-job training and may require basic knowledge of engineering principles and safety standards.

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 works on product design for a given industry, such as aerospace, automotive, medical, manufacturing, or entertainment. Your job duties as an entry-level mechanical engineer depend on the size of your employer and the scope of the projects your team handles. At a large corporation, your job focuses on a specialized element of the product design. At a small company or startup, your responsibilities encompass all of the engineering elements of a project. Regardless of company size, you need communication and interpersonal skills as a mechanical engineer, because teamwork is essential to the job.

How to get a mechanical engineering job with no experience?

Entry-level mechanical engineering positions often require relevant internships, co-op experience, or project work to demonstrate skills. Gaining proficiency in CAD software, such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD, and obtaining certifications like Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) can improve chances. Networking with professionals and applying to internships or trainee programs also help build experience for entry-level roles.

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.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Entry-level mechanical engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, with higher salaries possible in specialized fields, management roles, or in certain industries like aerospace or oil and gas. Reaching a $200,000 salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced skills, certifications, or leadership positions.
More about Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, AL? For Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,761 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
Assistant / Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Assistant / Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University

Normal, AL • On-site

$75K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Salary: $75,100.00 - $88,075.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300604
Department: Mechanical and Civil Engineering & Construction Management
Opening Date: 05/09/2025
Description
Summary:
The Department of Mechanical & Civil Engineering and Construction Management at Alabama A&M University invites applications for a tenure-track or tenured faculty position in Mechanical Engineering. The rank and tenure status are negotiable based on qualifications and experience.
We seek a dynamic and highly qualified candidate with expertise in nuclear engineering, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), gas turbine systems, material sciences and thermal-fluid sciences. The ideal candidate will be capable of teaching a wide range of courses including Introduction to Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Reactor Engineering I & II, Gas Turbines, Material Sciences and CFD. A specialization in nuclear systems is particularly desirable.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Teach undergraduate and graduate-level Mechanical Engineering courses, including but not limited to:
    1. Introduction to Nuclear Engineering
    2. Nuclear Reactor Engineering I & II
    3. Gas Turbine Systems
    4. Computational Fluid Dynamics
    5. Thermal Sciences and related courses
  • Develop and enhance mechanical engineering laboratories.
  • Supervise senior design and graduate projects.
  • Engage in scholarly research and seek extramural funding.
  • Advise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Contribute to department, college, university, and professional service

Typical Qualifications
Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.):
  • Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching, research, and service.
  • Ability to teach across the Mechanical Engineering curriculum with a strong emphasis on nuclear engineering, CFD, gas turbines, material sciences and thermal sciences.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Expertise and teaching experience in nuclear reactor systems.
  • Experience in securing external research funding.
  • Proven ability to develop and teach laboratory-based courses.
  • Background in materials science, manufacturing, or propulsion is a plus.

Supplemental Information
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • Nuclear Reactor Engineering
    • Computational Fluid Dynamics
    • Gas Turbine Systems
    • Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Solid Mechanics
    • Materials Science and Manufacturing
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01
Do you have Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching, research, and service?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have the ability to teach across the Mechanical Engineering curriculum with a strong emphasis on nuclear engineering, CFD, gas turbines, material sciences and thermal sciences?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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