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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Ridgefield, WA

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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

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$18

$35

$58

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

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Ridgefield, WA is $35.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.56 and $39.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

How to get into entry level mechanical engineering with no experience?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions often require a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Gaining relevant skills through internships, co-op programs, or personal projects, and learning industry tools like CAD software, can improve your chances; certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) may also be beneficial.

What cities near Ridgefield, WA are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ridgefield, WA with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings in Ridgefield, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,274 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Entry-Level Associate (General Application)

Portland, OR • On-site

$79K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Are you an upcoming or recent college graduate eager to take on complex challenges and make an impact in the built environment? At Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE), we invite you to bring your curiosity, creativity, and hands-on approach as you grow your expertise in architecture, architectural engineering, civil engineering, structural engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering.

This General Application is designed for entry-level associates who may not see an active posting in their preferred location but want to be considered for future opportunities at WJE.*

To help us learn more about you, apply here and be sure to:

  • include complete contact information

  • upload relevant documentation (resume, cover letter, etc.)

  • answer all questions listed

Our Talent Acquisition team will review your application shortly. We will contact you directly if a potential opportunity arises, now or in the future, that matches your experience, interests, and location preferences.

In the meantime, we encourage you to keep your profile up-to-date and to set a Job Alert, so you will be the first to know when we post new career opportunities that meet your preferences.Learn more at www.wje.com/dont-miss-an-opportunity-with-wje.

More ways to stay up-to-date on the latest in WJE's project work and new job opportunities:

  • Subscribe to WJE News

  • Join WJE for a Webinar

  • Follow WJE on LinkedIn

* The best way to be considered for an active opportunity with WJE is to apply to that specific job posting. If you have not done so already,search here to find an active role that matches your interests, expertise, and location preferences.


Culture, Compensation, and Benefits:


Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists. Clients worldwide seek our expertise to solve the most significant, interesting, and challenging problems in the built world. Our applied experience from more than 200,000 projects combined with unparalleled laboratory and testing capabilities have made WJE a leader in providing innovative yet practical solutions to the clients we serve.


Working at WJE is a team endeavor characterized by a culture of trust and personal responsibility. We encourage open communication, continuous learning, innovative thinking, ongoing mentoring, and free-flowing collaboration. We seek highly talented and hard-working individuals who want to be challenged, who want hands-on work, who want to set a higher standard, and who want to be mentored by the industry's most accomplished experts. People with outstanding Character, unwaveringCommitment to our core and culture, strongExpertise, and genuineEnthusiasm for their work.

Learn more about the Extraordinary People we hire at WJE at www.wje.com/careers

WJE offers a robust, total compensation structure composed of base salary, incentive pay, and industry-leading benefits:

  • Base salary is determined through consideration of a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role while remaining mindful of our commitment to internal equity.

  • Employees receive variable compensation based on personal and company performance, typically resulting in above-market total compensation.

A good faith estimate of the annual starting base salary (gross) is in the following range:

$79,280.00 - $118,920.00

WJE's industry-leading, total rewards package enables our employees to grow and thrive with comprehensive health and financial benefits, including:

  • Robust and affordable health plans for employees and their families, including HSA as well as low and high-deductible PPO options

  • Generous 401(k) matching of 110% for the first 6% of eligible pay, vesting immediately

  • Time off to care for yourself and others

  • Investments in employees' educational assistance and professional development

Learn more about WJE's total rewards package here.

WJE is an Equal Opportunity Employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

WJE will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of Fair Chance Ordinances.