2

Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Structural Engineer

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on various design requirements. * Preparation of calculation packages to satisfy client, code, and WSP requirements.

Controls Engineer

Wilsonville, OR

$86K - $111K/yr

Job Title: Entry-Level Controls Engineer This entry-level Controls Engineer role offers an ... Responsibilities * Assist in the design and development of electrical control systems for ...

Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on various design requirements. * Preparation of calculation packages to satisfy client, code, and WSP requirements.

... as an Entry Level Transportation Planner/Design Engineer. In this position, you will play a crucial role in supporting the development and implementation of multimodal transportation plans and ...

Engineer I

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$65 - $80/hr

The Engineer I is an entry-level engineering position and is expected to learn and develop ... Part of the responsibility will be to provide technical engineering design, consultation ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$31.8K

$73.6K

$125.1K

How much do entry level roller coaster design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level roller coaster design engineer in Portland, OR is $73,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level roller coaster design engineer do?

An Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer assists in the design, development, and testing of roller coasters and other amusement park rides. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, contributing to tasks such as creating CAD drawings, analyzing structural integrity, and ensuring safety standards are met. Entry-level engineers may also help with prototyping, simulations, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to bring exciting ride concepts to life. This role requires a solid foundation in mechanical or structural engineering, creativity, and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level roller coaster design engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or structural engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools such as MATLAB or SolidWorks, and safety standards like ASTM F24 is essential. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure the safe, innovative, and efficient design of roller coasters that meet regulatory requirements and deliver memorable guest experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level roller coaster design engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level roller coaster design engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing creative ideas with strict safety regulations, meeting tight project timelines, and collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams including architects and construction specialists. Navigating complex simulation software and quickly adapting to changing client requirements can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, it’s helpful to seek mentorship from experienced engineers, stay organized through detailed documentation, and actively participate in team meetings to ensure clear communication throughout the design and build process.

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

AspectEntry Level Roller Coaster Design EngineerEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or Structural Engineering; knowledge of CAD softwareBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; familiarity with CAD and simulation tools
Work EnvironmentTheme parks, design studios, manufacturing facilitiesManufacturing plants, engineering firms, product development labs
Industry UsageAmusement parks, entertainment industryAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing industries
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer and Entry Level Mechanical Engineer share similar educational backgrounds and CAD skills. However, the roller coaster role focuses specifically on amusement park attractions and entertainment industry applications, while the mechanical engineer works across various manufacturing sectors. Both roles require a strong foundation in engineering principles, but their work environments and industry focus differ significantly.

How do I become an entry level roller coaster design engineer?

To become an entry-level roller coaster design engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical, civil, or structural engineering. Gaining experience with CAD software, such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks, and understanding physics and safety standards are also important for entry-level roles in amusement ride design.

How hard is it to get a job as an entry level roller coaster design engineer?

Securing an entry-level roller coaster design engineer position can be competitive, often requiring a degree in mechanical, civil, or structural engineering, along with knowledge of CAD software and safety standards. Relevant internships or project experience can improve chances, but the specialized nature of the field means opportunities may be limited and require strong technical skills. Persistence and a solid portfolio are important for breaking into this niche industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR?

For Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Roller Coaster Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Shannon & Wilson, Inc.

Lake Oswego, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental and natural resource services for clients. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting and construction conditions.
We are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment and utilizing the most innovative science practices in all our work.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform geotechnical engineering and geological analyses and calculations.
  • Prepare and write engineering and other reports.
  • Perform field explorations, collection of samples, geologic reconnaissance, and mapping.
  • Perform with construction observation on job sites and prepare summary logs and other documentation.
  • Perform geotechnical lab testing and communicate results.
  • Interact and communicate with clients, vendors, and staff at all levels.
  • Support marketing activities, including preparation of cost proposals.
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson's Quality Assurance policy.
  • Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson's Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Requirements
  • BS in Civil Engineering; and MS or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering strongly preferred.
  • 0 - 6 years of experience in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Have obtained or in process of receiving a Engineer-in-Training Certificate
  • On track to obtain Professional Engineering (PE) License.
  • Work experience (and/or coursework) in one or more of the following areas: soil mechanics; rock mechanics; rock and soil slope stability; shallow and deep foundations; tunneling; microtunneling; seismic design; earthquake engineering; and retaining structures.
  • Some knowledge or experience of field/construction observation in one or more of the following areas: logging geotechnical explorations, observation of pile driving operations, observations of earthwork activities, installation and recording of geotechnical instrumentation, field reconnaissance, and/or underground work.
  • Excellent writing, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Personable, flexible, and professional demeanor.
  • The ability to work independently with the appropriate level of OR minimal supervision.
  • The willingness and ability to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.
  • A valid driver license and insurable driving record.
  • Basic computer skills: MS Word, Excel (required); MS Access (desirable).
  • Critical thinking and analysis.
  • Frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, lifting, and carrying 30+ pounds.
  • Working in all weather conditions, on uneven terrain.
  • The ability to travel (drive or fly) to field sites per project needs and job sites locally and out of state

Level Placement
Typically, depending on an applicant's education, experience, overall abilities, alignment with the needs of the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, an Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer typically would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Professional I, II, III, or IV level.
Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:
  • Employee stock ownership
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees (prorated for part-time employment) based on year's of experience
  • Since sick leave accrues based on hours worked might be best to list as an hourly accrual, or plan to update for PT postings.
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday
  • Paid volunteer day
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program
  • Mentorship Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free parking

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.
Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.