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Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Columbus, OH

Mechanical Engineering Co-op At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact ... Providing a fresh perspective through a desire to understand the "why" instead of just the "how"

Mechanical Project Manager

Columbus, OH · On-site

$87.40K - $118.30K/yr

... engineering to craft solutions by working collaboratively with clients as a trusted partner. Tate ... We are excited about our fresh, dynamic, and inclusive team of experts working on new innovations ...

Mechanical Project Manager

Columbus, OH

$87.40K - $118.30K/yr

... engineering to craft solutions by working collaboratively with clients as a trusted partner. Tate ... We are excited about our fresh, dynamic, and inclusive team of experts working on new innovations ...

Mechanical Project Manager

Columbus, OH

$87.40K - $118.30K/yr

... engineering to craft solutions by working collaboratively with clients as a trusted partner. Tate ... We are excited about our fresh, dynamic, and inclusive team of experts working on new innovations ...

Project Engineer - Substation

Columbus, OH · On-site

$92K - $117.30K/yr

S.) or Graduate degree in Electrical Engineering from an ABET accredited university. * P.E. license required. * Strong technical expertise in structural, civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering ...

New

Project Engineer - Substation

Columbus, OH · On-site

$92.50K - $117.90K/yr

S.) or Graduate degree in Electrical Engineering from an ABET accredited university. * P.E. license required. * Strong technical expertise in structural, civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering ...

Water Resources Engineer II

New Albany, OH · On-site

$75.90K - $103.80K/yr

... fresh, non-fresh, and produced water. Duties also include technically supporting water transfer ... Job Requirements Bachelor's degree in Petroleum, Civil, Mechanical, Chemical engineering or similar ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$43.9K

$99.4K

$160.8K

How much do fresh graduate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for fresh graduate mechanical engineer in Columbus, OH is $99,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,700.00 and $122,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), engineering simulation tools, and basic knowledge of industry standards are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you effectively contribute to projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for successfully transitioning academic knowledge into practical solutions and advancing in a professional engineering environment.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a fresh graduate mechanical engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As a fresh graduate mechanical engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of entry-level tasks such as assisting with design calculations, preparing engineering drawings, supporting prototyping and testing, and collaborating with senior engineers on larger projects. You may also be involved in troubleshooting equipment, compiling technical documentation, and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress. This period is often focused on learning industry standards, familiarizing yourself with company-specific tools and processes, and developing practical skills through hands-on experience.

What does a Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer do?

A Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer typically assists senior engineers in designing, testing, and evaluating mechanical systems and products. Their tasks may involve drafting technical drawings, conducting research, performing simulations, and supporting project documentation. They often work under supervision while gaining practical experience, applying engineering principles learned in school to real-world problems. This role is an entry-level position meant to help new graduates transition into the professional workforce and develop essential skills for their careers.

What is the difference between Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Designer?

AspectFresh Graduate Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
QualificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; entry-levelBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related; may require CAD certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, manufacturing plants, R&D labsDesign departments, engineering firms, manufacturing companies
ResponsibilitiesAssist in project development, testing, analysisCreate detailed CAD models, technical drawings, design specifications
Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, energy, automotiveProduct design, machinery, automotive, aerospace

While both roles require a background in mechanical engineering, a Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer typically assists in various engineering tasks and gains practical experience, whereas a Mechanical Designer focuses on creating detailed technical drawings and CAD models for manufacturing and product development.

What job categories do people searching Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer job openings in Columbus, OH as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,370 per year, or $47.8 per hour.
Mechanical Engineering Co-op

Mechanical Engineering Co-op

Salas O'Brien

Dublin, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

259th of 349 rated engineering


Job description

Mechanical Engineering Co-op
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 Engineering Co-op will assist project engineers on the development of engineering deliverables such as drawings, equipment specifications, mechanical systems, budget estimation, and any other tasks necessary for the project engineers to complete their work. The Co-op will be involved in all aspects of project development completing tasks independently but under the close supervision of senior engineering staff. The Co-op will be exposed to a variety of mechanical utilities such as compressed air, cooling water, steam, and HVAC systems in an industrial environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Project Support: Assist our engineering teams in various phases of project development, from concept design to implementation and testing. Ensure project team members create deliverables that meet or exceed the customer's expectations and standards. Own issues and drive them to resolution with internal and external customers.
  • Collaboration: Complete well defined tasks independently while still working closely with senior engineering staff to clarify questions and uncertainty in the process. Build and maintain healthy, long term, professional relationships with coworkers, customers, suppliers, and industry partners. Maintain excellent composure, especially under pressure.
  • Documentation: Requires effective documentation and communication of calculations and engineering decisions for review by senior engineering staff.
  • Communication: Communicate effectively in person and in writing to define needs and provide records of work complete.
  • Innovation: Foster an environment where new ideas are discussed and developed collaboratively. Providing a fresh perspective through a desire to understand the "why" instead of just the "how".

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Educational Background: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • Experience: Past co-op experience a plus, but not required. Completed coursework in heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and mechanical systems desired.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in using engineering tools and software such as:
    • CAD Software (Revit, AutoCAD, Inventor, Solidworks, etc).
    • Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite, particularly Word and Excel.
    • A passion for understanding how a collection of components work together as a system
  • Adaptability: Flexibility and willingness to work on various projects and tasks, embracing new challenges with enthusiasm.
  • Initiative: Demonstrated ability to work independently and take initiative to drive projects forward.

Location: Columbus, Ohio
Travel: Up to 25%
Compensation & Benefits:
Compensation will be on an hourly basis and dependent on experience level.
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, colour, 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.
Third-Party Agency Notice
Salas O'Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.
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.