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Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Charlottesville, VA ยท On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer leads the design of critical refrigeration components and systems for large cold storage warehouses. This role drives the ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Bellevue, Washington Type: Contract Compensation: $52 - $85 hourly Contractor Work Model: Hybrid System One is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support the ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Tulsa, OK ยท On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Tulsa, OK Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $100,000.00 - $125,000.00 Contractor Work Model: Onsite Hours: 40.0 Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking a ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Lyndhurst, VA

$73K - $99K/yr

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer leads the design of critical refrigeration components and systems for large cold storage warehouses. This role drives the ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$75 - $82/hr

As a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer,, you will spearhead the mechanical design and development of advanced aerospace components and systems, ensuring innovative, reliable, and high-performance ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hudson, MA ยท On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Description Test Devices by Schenck is seeking to hire a Mechanical Design Engineer! We're seeking a detail-driven Mechanical Design Engineer to bring ideas to life through innovative design and ...

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Marietta, OH Job Type: Full-Time Direct Hire Starting Salary: $60,000/year (higher compensation available based on experience) Position Summary We are seeking a ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hudson, MA ยท On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Test Devices by Schenck is seeking to hire a Mechanical Design Engineer! We're seeking a detail-driven Mechanical Design Engineer to bring ideas to life through innovative design and problem-solving.

Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join an engineering and product development team supporting the design, development, and release of new products. This role ...

Showing results 41-60

Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$91.6K

$136.5K

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

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate mechanical design engineer in the United States is $91,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectGraduate Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; entry-levelBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level roles in design teams, labs, or manufacturingFull-time roles in design, development, and testing of mechanical systems
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in design tasks, learning CAD tools, supporting senior engineersDeveloping detailed designs, analyzing prototypes, collaborating with manufacturing

While both roles involve mechanical design, a Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer is typically an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting design tasks, whereas a Mechanical Design Engineer has more experience and responsibility in developing and refining mechanical systems.

What are some typical challenges a graduate mechanical design engineer might face when transitioning from university to an engineering team in industry?

Graduate Mechanical Design Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to real-world engineering teams challenging due to the fast-paced project timelines, the need to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and the requirement to adhere to industry standards and regulations. Adapting to using advanced CAD software in a production environment and receiving constructive feedback from experienced colleagues are also common adjustments. However, these challenges present valuable learning opportunities and can accelerate professional growth in a supportive team setting.

What can a graduate mechanical design engineer do after graduation?

A graduate mechanical design engineer can pursue roles in product development, CAD design, and prototyping within manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or industrial sectors. They often work with tools like SolidWorks or AutoCAD and may seek professional certifications to advance their careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate mechanical design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and finite element analysis software, along with knowledge of industry standards, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart in collaborative design environments. These skills ensure innovative, safe, and efficient product designs that meet project requirements and industry regulations.

What does a graduate mechanical design engineer do?

A Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer is an entry-level professional who assists in designing mechanical systems and components for various products or projects. They typically use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create and modify technical drawings, work with senior engineers to develop prototypes, and help test designs for functionality and safety. Their role also involves collaborating with manufacturing teams to ensure designs can be produced efficiently and meet all relevant standards. This position is ideal for recent graduates looking to apply their academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges.
More about Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,578 per year, or $44 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Leonardo Electronics US Inc

Tucson, AZ โ€ข On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Advance Your Impact: Mechanical Design Engineer II

Are you a results-driven Mechanical Design Engineer ready to take on more significant challenges and drive innovation? Do you excel in a hands-on environment where your designs come to life? Leonardo is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer II to join our dynamic team and play a critical role in the development of next-generation diode lasers and systems. Availability of this position is dependent upon final contract award.

This isn't a role where you'll just be executing tasks. You'll be actively owning and contributing to your portion of the design and development lifecycle, spending approximately 50% of your time immersed in hands-on development in our advanced cleanroom and laboratory facilities. We're looking for someone eager to translate complex technical requirements into tangible, high-performance solutions, from initial concept refinement through rigorous prototype testing and ultimately delivery and installation.

As a Mechanical Design Engineer II, you'll be instrumental in shaping product designs from early stages to successful delivery. This highly collaborative position requires you to interface directly with internal engineering teams, our program managers, and external vendors, ensuring that designs are both innovative and manufacturable. You will also have the opportunity to guide technicians and manufacturing personnel, sharing your growing expertise and contributing to project success.


What You'll Contribute:

  • Core Design & Analysis: Perform mechanical product design, analysis, and development, focusing on components and assemblies such as:
    • Heatsinks and Heat Exchangers for optimal thermal performance.
    • Design and detail Optomechanical Medical, Military, Scientific, and Commercial grade assemblies, ensuring precision and robustness.
    • Design and develop laser diode packages and assemblies, including designing and testing tooling.
    • Elements of Direct Diode Laser Sources, Fiber Coupled Laser Systems, and supporting Tooling and Test System Design.
  • Apply sound engineering principles and creative thinking to solve technical challenges.
  • Utilize SolidWorks for 3D and 2D CAD design and detailing, adhering to ANSI Y14.5M standards and GD&T.
  • Generate Bills of Materials, lifecycle documentation, and support the creation of work instructions.
  • Use tools like ANSYS to validate designs against requirements.
  • Project Execution: Work closely with Program Managers to manage design and build outcomes within assigned scope and budget. Assist Product Engineers in transferring designs to production.
  • Prepare and present clear and effective analysis results and design reviews to internal teams.
  • Engage in hands-on prototype assembly and debugging, collaborating with technicians and engineers from various disciplines. Your hands-on work will include:
    • Assisting with solder reflow processes and micro component assembly tooling.
    • Designing, assembling, and operating laser test systems.
    • Developing or selecting pump systems and chillers for laser cooling systems.
    • Support prototype testing and validation.
  • Create and organize essential design documentation (BOMs, test criteria, equipment plans)
  • Contribute to research and development efforts aimed at improving the performance, reliability, and efficiency of laser systems.


What You Need:

  • A Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an ABET accredited four-year college or university.
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in a related engineering field with similar design and development duties.
  • Demonstrated experience with hands-on development and prototype builds, comfortable working in a cleanroom environment up to 50% of the time, desk jockeys need not apply.
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks for mechanical design and detailing.
  • Experience with FEA particularly related to thermal and fluid flow is a plus.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing precision mechanical components from various metals and ceramics.
  • A desire to contribute to product development from concept through to completion.

Leonardo offers a fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding environment in a high-tech industry. We are a company of innovators and executors dedicated to delivering the best solutions for our customers. If you're a motivated Mechanical Design Engineer ready to expand your skills and make a real impact, we encourage you to apply.


[NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.]

Leonardo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Here are the hiring process steps and what you can expect from us:

Step 1: Application Review:

Upon submitting your application, it is made available to the recruitment team to review and ensure you meet the basic qualifications.

Step 2: Interview:

If you have been identified to move forward in the process, you may be invited to participate in a one-on-one or panel interview. The interview format can be a phone call, in-person, or virtual meeting.

Step 3: Offer:

If you reach this stage of the interview process, congratulations! You will be provided an offer to join the Leonardo Electronics US Inc. team. The offer will include details about your salary, benefits package and start date.