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Entry Level Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Raleigh, NC

The Mechanical Engineer is an entry-level position and performs their job functions under the direct supervision of a project's Engineer-of-Record and/or Lead Mechanical Engineer. Mechanical ...

The Mechanical Engineer is an entry-level position and performs their job functions under the direct supervision of a project's Engineer-of-Record and/or Lead Mechanical Engineer. Mechanical ...

The Mechanical Engineer is an entry-level position and performs their job functions under the direct supervision of a project's Engineer-of-Record and/or Lead Mechanical Engineer. Mechanical ...

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Entry Level Mechanical Engineering information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$15

$29

$48

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

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineering in Raleigh, NC is $29.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.75 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level mechanical engineers?

Entry level mechanical engineers are recent graduates or those with limited professional experience who work on designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing mechanical devices and systems. They typically support senior engineers by performing calculations, creating technical drawings, and assisting with product development. Their responsibilities often include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, conducting tests, and preparing reports. Entry level positions provide valuable hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in the field, serving as a stepping stone toward more advanced engineering roles.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership or executive responsibilities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Mechanical Engineering vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Mechanical EngineeringMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or Design
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing in labs or officesDesign development, CAD modeling, prototyping
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, consultingProduct design, machinery, consumer goods
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Mechanical Engineering roles focus on foundational engineering tasks like analysis and testing, while Mechanical Design Engineers specialize in creating detailed designs and CAD models. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and are found in manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace industries. The main difference lies in the focus: general engineering versus specialized design work.

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 protocols.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry-level mechanical engineer?

As an entry-level mechanical engineer, you’ll typically work on a variety of tasks such as drafting and updating technical drawings, assisting with prototype development, and conducting basic analyses under the guidance of senior engineers. You may also be involved in quality testing, preparing documentation, and supporting the design or manufacturing process. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including electrical engineers, manufacturing staff, and project managers—is common, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of the engineering process. This role offers a strong foundation for learning industry standards and developing technical problem-solving skills.

What engineers make 400K?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn salaries of $400,000 or more, often through a combination of base pay, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes advanced certifications or leadership responsibilities.

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 grasp of engineering fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), engineering simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and time management skills help you collaborate effectively and manage project deadlines. These competencies are crucial for delivering quality engineering solutions, adapting to project requirements, and contributing to successful team outcomes.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering and relevant skills, and individuals can pursue this career at any age. Many engineers start their careers later in life, and experience can be an asset; age is generally not a barrier to entering the field if the necessary education and skills are obtained.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineering jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineering job openings:

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer - Product Reliability

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Fuquay Varina, NC • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking a growth-oriented candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Product Reliability Engineer

Product Reliability Engineer will support product safety, compliance, and validation activities for off-highway equipment and related systems. In this role, you will help verify that products meet design requirements, safety standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations after they are released to production.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute validation plans to verify product performance, safety, durability, and reliability.
  • Conduct laboratory, field, and vehicle-level testing to ensure products meet engineering and regulatory requirements.
  • Evaluate products and systems for compliance with applicable industry standards and safety requirements.
  • Analyze test results and document findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
  • Investigate product issues, test failures, and non-conformance concerns to identify root causes and corrective actions.
  • Participate in product risk assessments and design reviews to help ensure safe and reliable product operation.
  • Support product certification, compliance, and regulatory documentation activities.
  • Work with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supplier teams to resolve product concerns and improve performance.
  • Assist in developing and maintaining validation procedures, test methods, and engineering specifications.
  • Maintain accurate records of testing, inspections, and compliance activities.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Experience in product validation, testing, safety, compliance, quality, or product development.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Experience analyzing data and preparing technical reports.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and test requirements.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with off-highway, agricultural, construction, or heavy equipment.
  • Familiarity with product safety standards, compliance requirements, and engineering validation processes.
  • Experience supporting product verification, validation, or certification activities.
  • Knowledge of root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies.
  • Experience using data acquisition, instrumentation, or engineering analysis tools.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $65,000-$80,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly