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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

Tt

Mechanical HVAC Project Engineer

New York, NY

$96K - $125K/yr

You will be supported in this role by a diverse team ranging from entry-level engineers to senior ... Degree in Mechanical engineering or related field * Professional Engineer License preferred.

legence

Project Engineer - MEP

Madison, NJ

$75K - $80K/yr

CMTA, formerly known as AMA Group, is seeking an entry level Project Engineer(s) who are passionate about hands-on learning. Whether you are interested in Mechanical, Electrical, or Plumbing and Fire ...

Legence

Project Engineer - MEP

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

CMTA, formerly known as AMA Group, is seeking an entry level Project Engineer(s) who are passionate about hands-on learning. Whether you are interested in Mechanical, Electrical, or Plumbing and Fire ...

MG Engineering

Junior Designer Mechanical

Manhattan, NY · On-site

... Designer is a trusted entry-level project design team assistant, working under the direct ... This includes performing certain engineering design & project functions, including (but not limited ...

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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$18

$33

$55

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

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Rutherford, NJ is $33.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.45 and $38.22 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
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ 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 Rutherford, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,397 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer

Salas O'Brien

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 440 rated engineering

Job description

Entry-Level 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 Summary:
The Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer will work in a fast-paced multi-discipline team environment. Our Mechanical Engineers are responsible for designing building HVAC and producing construction documentation Residential, Higher Education, Commercial, Science and Technology, and Federal Facilities. This position is offered in a hybrid work environment, with a combination of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Read and understand construction documents including drawings, floor plans, specifications, and equipment details.
  • Develop HVAC system designs of a given project based on scope of work and/or client RFPs while supporting project development from concept design through construction.
  • Provide engineering design, evaluation, and planning of mechanical systems for a variety of market types.
  • Perform heating and cooling load calculations and energy analysis with software such as Trace 700 or similar programs.
  • Conduct building surveys and documentation of existing HVAC systems and site conditions.
  • Provide construction support through reviewing equipment submittals, responding to contractor questions, and issuing reviews and reports.
  • Write and edit project specifications, narratives, reports, and other technical documentation.
  • Assist in procuring new work; including developing client relationships and participating in project interviews when required.
  • Perform drawing production and Building Information Modeling (BIM) for mechanical systems.
  • Complete engineering calculations, equipment sizing and selection, system layout, and interdisciplinary coordination.
  • Apply knowledge of building codes and industry standards in the development of mechanical system designs.
  • Attend internal and external meetings to obtain design input information.
  • Communicate effectively in person and in writing with project teams, clients, and contractors to ensure timely sharing of project information.
  • Work independently while collaborating with internal teams and utilizing available resources to develop effective engineering solutions.
  • Support project teams in delivering work products that meet project requirements and quality expectations and assist in resolving project issues.
  • Perform project billable work and engineering responsibilities consistent with expected utilization goals while contributing to successful project delivery.
  • Foster an environment where new ideas are discussed and developed collaboratively to create practical solutions to client challenges.

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • EIT Certification preferred but not required with a willingness to obtain in 1-2 years.
  • You have design experience in the MEP industry.
  • You are knowledgeable in the design of HVAC systems.
  • You have 0 - 2 years of experience in engineering and design.
  • Should have working knowledge of the ASHRAE, ASME, NFPA, and NEC; with a preference for knowledge of IBC, IMC, and IPC requirements.

Skills/Abilities:
  • Efficient in MS Office, Outlook, and engineering calculation software
  • Ability to prioritize tasks effectively in the face of shifting projects and deadlines
  • Good communication skills, combined with organizational skills, the ability to plan, balance and prioritize work
  • Ability to operate Bluebeam Revu, AutoCAD, RevitTMand BIM360 software

Location: New York City
Travel: Limited
Compensation & Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this role is $75,000 - $95,000 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
This role is also eligible for discretionary performance-based bonus and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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