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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Springfield, OR

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

See Springfield, OR salary details

$16

$31

$51

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Springfield, OR is $31.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.53 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Springfield, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Springfield, OR are:
What cities near Springfield, OR are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Springfield, OR with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Industrial Control Panel Builder - UL 508A

Industrial Control Panel Builder - UL 508A

ENTEK

Lebanon, OR • On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description:

ENTEK is seeking a skilled UL 508A Panel Builder to join a dynamic and growing manufacturing company. The ideal candidate will assemble, wire, and test industrial control panels in strict accordance with UL 508A standards, electrical schematics, and company quality procedures. This hands-on role requires strong attention to detail, electrical knowledge, and experience building compliant control panels for industrial machinery and automation systems


Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, point-to-point drawings, layouts, and bills of materials (BOMs).
  • Layout and mount electrical components (such as PLCs, contactors, relays, motor drives, circuit breakers, terminal blocks, transformers, sensors, and power supplies) onto back panels and enclosures.
  • Perform precise point-to-point wiring, cable routing, bundling, labeling, and termination following UL 508A and NFPA 79 guidelines.
  • Ensure proper wire sizing, color coding, grounding, spacing, and component selection per UL 508A requirements.
  • Fabricate and modify enclosures (drilling, punching, tapping, bending) as needed while maintaining UL compliance.
  • Conduct thorough testing, including continuity checks and point-to-point verification of panels.
  • Calculate or verify short-circuit current ratings (SCCR) and apply proper labeling, nameplates, and UL 508A certification marks.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while adhering to all safety protocols and quality standards.
  • Collaborate with engineers, quality inspectors, and other team members to resolve build issues or design clarifications.
  • Prepare completed panels for inspection, packaging, and shipment.

Advanced Responsibilities

  • Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and on-the-job training to entry-level panel builders and assemblers.
  • Lead complex panel builds, including multi-section enclosures, high-power systems, variable frequency drives (VFDs), servo controls, and integrated PLC/HMI systems.
  • Perform advanced troubleshooting and diagnostics on control circuits, motor controls, and field wiring interfaces during build, testing, or post-installation support.
  • Oversee compliance with UL 508A, NFPA 79, NEC/NFPA 70, and other applicable codes; review component selections, SCCR calculations, and grounding/bonding for final approval.
  • Interpret and resolve discrepancies in schematics, engineering changes, or redlines; recommend improvements for manufacturability, safety, or efficiency.
  • Support field installation, startup, commissioning, or modifications of panels at customer sites when required (including conduit bending, termination, and system integration).
  • Inspect and quality-assure work performed by team members to ensure consistent adherence to UL 508A standards and company workmanship guidelines.
  • Assist in maintaining UL shop certification processes, including documentation, audit preparation, and interaction with UL representatives or inspectors.
  • Delegate tasks, monitor production workflow, and help meet deadlines while upholding high standards of electrical safety and code compliance

The position accomplishes these responsibilities through a respectful, constructive, and energetic style, guided by ENTEK’s Core Values, strategic objectives, and Servant Leadership. This position will represent ENTEK with the highest standard of professional conduct when interacting with partners, suppliers, and customers.


Supervisory Duties:

This position does not have Supervisory Duties.

Requirements:

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED required; technical/vocational training in electrical technology or related field preferred.
  • 2+ years of hands-on experience building or wiring industrial control panels, with demonstrated experience in UL 508A-compliant shops strongly preferred.
  • Solid understanding of UL 508A standards, NEC/NFPA 70, NFPA 79, and industrial electrical practices.
  • Proficiency in reading andinterpreting complex electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical drawings.
  • Experience with common industrial components (PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, relays, contactors, etc.).
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity for precise assembly work.
Preferred Education and experience
  • Prior work in a UL-certified panel shop or as a qualified Manufacturer's Technical Representative (MTR).
  • Experience with engraving/labeling systems or basic panel design software.
  • Knowledge of industrial automation systems and field wiring practices.
  • Ability to work independently under minimal supervision while meeting production


About ENTEK

ENTEK’s DNA is based on a set of core values, which drive everything we do: Respect, Integrity, Innovation, and Commitment. Stop by our website at www.entek.com to learn more about our company and the opportunities that await you.


ENTEK is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.


ENTEK’s locations are non-smoking. Please inquire if you have questions.