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Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Rochester Hills, MI

Design Release Engineer

Pontiac, MI · Hybrid

$40 - $45.75/hr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field and Five (5) years of experience as a Design Engineer, Executive Engineer, Graduate ...

Design Release Engineer

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$40 - $45.75/hr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field and Five (5) years of experience as a Design Engineer, Executive Engineer, Graduate ...

Prototype Build Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$33.75 - $37.75/hr

Candidates must possess a strong mechanical engineering foundation with exposure to the following ... This opportunity is well-suited for a recent engineering graduate or an early-career engineer ...

... graduate levels. An earned doctorate in Mechanical or a closely related field is required. Minimum Qualifications PhD in mechanical engineering or related area. Special Instructions to Applicants ...

Bachelor's or Graduate's Degree in industrial engineering, electrical engineering, computer sciences, or mechanical engineering. * Experience: 3+ years of experience in assembly and/ or manufacturing ...

Simulation Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Bachelor's or Graduate's Degree in industrial engineering, electrical engineering, computer sciences, or mechanical engineering. Experience: 3+ years of experience in assembly and/ or manufacturing ...

Bachelor's or Graduate's Degree in industrial engineering, electrical engineering, computer sciences, or mechanical engineering. * Experience: 3+ years of experience in assembly and/ or manufacturing ...

Showing results 21-40

Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer information

See Rochester Hills, MI salary details

$41.9K

$94.7K

$153.3K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for fresh graduate mechanical engineer in Rochester Hills, MI is $94,694.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $116,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester Hills, MI?

For Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester Hills, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rochester Hills, MI are hiring for Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rochester Hills, MI with the most Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer job openings in Rochester Hills, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,694 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

CAE Engineer Structural - Sr

North American Lighting

Farmington Hills, MI

$103K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs finite element analysis (FEA) for structural design of automotive lighting and prepares reports outlining the analysis and conclusions.

  • Provides guidance and technical advice to project engineers and designers regarding thermal, venting, and structural design and analysis needs for new lighting projects.

  • Estimates resources and establishes schedules for testing and analysis required for lighting projects.


North American Lighting rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

124th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary

Who We Are

North American Lighting Inc., member of the Koito Group of Companies, is the largest tier one automotive exterior lighting manufacturer in North America. As the market share leader in exterior automotive lighting, NAL provides advanced lighting technology, engineering design expertise, and state-of-the-art production capabilities to auto makers based in North America and around the world.

Our Opportunity

North American Lighting (NAL) is looking for a Senior CAE Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will provide engineering, design, and development support for new product launches and development projects pertaining to the structural performance of exterior automotive lighting products.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Your Priorities

  • Estimates resources and establishes schedules for testing and analysis required for lighting projects.
  • Provides guidance and technical advice to project engineers and designers regarding thermal, venting, and structural design and analysis needs for new lighting projects.
  • Performs finite element analysis (FEA) for structural design of automotive lighting, and prepares reports that outline the analysis and conclusions.
  • Provides theoretical calculations for physical experiments, and substantiates them test data.
  • Compares test data to theoretical models, and presents the results of the physical aspects of automotive lamps that were tested.
  • Develops and/or leads in the development of structural design work instructions, as needed, to document structural design techniques.

The salary range for this position is $103,700 - $141,900 per year. Final compensation will be determined by location, skills, experience, qualifications, and the career level at which the position is filled.

Requirements

Your Background

Education:

  • Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Field, plus 6 years of working experience, graduate experience, or research experience, or other relevant experience OR
  • Bachelor's Degree in M.E. or related field, plus 8 years of a combination of working experience, graduate experience, research experience, or other relevant experience.

Experience:

4 - 6 years of experience obtained through professional, graduate, or research experience in a combination of:

  • CAE analysis
  • Physical science testing experience
  • Structural testing experience
  • Computer simulation and modeling.

PHD in Mechanical Engineering or related field plus extensive working experience in CAE preferred.

At North American Lighting

Team Member Benefits 

World class health insurance plans 

Award winning 401k plan 

Relocation assistance 

Paid time off (vacation, sick, holidays, etc) 

Supplier discounts (wireless, computer, vehicle, etc.) 

Company sponsored wellness program including gym reimbursement 
 

Diversity at NAL: 

The mission of NAL's Diversity Committee is to facilitate NAL's ongoing and continuing efforts to foster a culture and atmosphere of mutual respect, for the benefit of all Team Members from different backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities that represent our communities. 

You can learn more about NAL and our opportunities at jobs.nal.com. 

All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, genetic information, and veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Requisition ID: 22064

Location: Farmington Hills 


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