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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

SNC-Lavalin

Nuclear Electrical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This is an entry-level position and is based out of Oak Ridge, TN. Your Role * Assist in designing ... Interface with the other technical disciplines (mechanical, nuclear, operations and electrical ...

AtkinsRéalis

Nuclear Electrical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This is an entry-level position and is based out of Oak Ridge, TN. Your Role * Assist in designing ... Interface with the other technical disciplines (mechanical, nuclear, operations and electrical ...

AtkinsRéalis

Nuclear Piping Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This is an entry-level position and is based out of Oak Ridge, TN. Your Role * Assist in designing ... Design and analyze of safety and non-safety piping and mechanical components and designs for ...

SNC-Lavalin

Nuclear Piping Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This is an entry-level position and is based out of Oak Ridge, TN. Your Role * Assist in designing ... Design and analyze of safety and non-safety piping and mechanical components and designs for ...

AtkinsRéalis

Nuclear Process Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This is an entry-level position and is based out of Oak Ridge, TN. Your Role * Assist in designing ... Interface with the other technical disciplines (mechanical, nuclear, operations and electrical ...

SNC-Lavalin

Nuclear Process Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

This is an entry-level position and is based out of Oak Ridge, TN. Your Role * Assist in designing ... Interface with the other technical disciplines (mechanical, nuclear, operations and electrical ...

Comfortsystemsusa

BIM Designer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... Entry-Level BIM Designer to join our MEP subcontracting team. In this role, you willassistin producing and managing detailed BIM models focused on mechanical,plumbingand electrical systems for ...

Comfortsystemsusa

BIM Designer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... Entry-Level BIM Designer to join our MEP subcontracting team. In this role, you willassistin producing and managing detailed BIM models focused on mechanical,plumbingand electrical systems for ...

Comfort Systems USA

BIM Designer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... Entry-Level BIM Designer to join our MEP subcontracting team. In this role, you will assist in producing and managing detailed BIM models focused on mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems for ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$15

$28

$47

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $28.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.37 and $32.55 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 Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? For Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN 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 Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,912 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Knoxville, TN

Full-time

Posted 15 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 442 rated engineering

Job description

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

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 Description:

  • Assists in the preparation or modification of reports, specifications, plans, construction schedules, studies, permits and designs for assigned projects.
  • Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare engineering and design documents.
  • Aids in client contact and communication pertaining to specific projects.
  • Teams with Senior Engineer and participates in all work the Senior Engineer is performing as an observer.
  • Designs equipment, ductwork, and piping layouts using Revit/BIM to meet project needs.
  • Operates engineering software to solve specific problems, and inputs the data required by the program.
  • Familiarize themselves with state-of-the-art design and various state and local regulations.

Qualifications:

  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant degree from ABET accredited school.
  • Past experience through co-op or summer internships helpful.
  • E.I.T. a plus.

Benefits:

  • Gain invaluable industry experience and practical engineering skills.
  • Work with a diverse team of professionals, fostering networking opportunities.
  • Access to mentorship and guidance from experienced engineers.
  • Competitive compensation package.

Location: Knoxville, TN

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