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Graduate Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Tennessee

Dewberry

Senior Mechanical Engineer- Healthcare

Nashville, TN

$100K - $133K/yr

... engineering. Assist the Project/Client Managers by providing technical guidance to help meet the ... Whether you're an experienced professional or a new graduate, you'll have the chance to collaborate ...

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All JobsGraduate Mechanical Engineering JobsGraduate Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Tennessee

Graduate Mechanical Engineering information

See Tennessee salary details

$41.3K

$93.4K

$151.1K

How much do graduate mechanical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate mechanical engineering in Tennessee is $93,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $114,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a graduate mechanical engineer do?

A Graduate Mechanical Engineer is an entry-level professional who assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and products. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers and contribute to projects by performing calculations, creating technical drawings, and participating in problem-solving activities. Graduate Mechanical Engineers often help with research, product development, and the implementation of engineering solutions across various industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. Their role provides valuable hands-on experience and is a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions.

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

As a Graduate Mechanical Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects, ranging from assisting in the design and analysis of mechanical systems to supporting testing and prototyping. Typically, you will work closely with experienced engineers, contributing to tasks such as CAD modeling, preparing technical documentation, and conducting basic calculations. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including electrical engineers, project managers, and manufacturing staff—is common, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of the project lifecycle. This structure helps you build practical skills, understand industry standards, and set the foundation for future specialization or leadership roles.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of industry standards is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative projects and present technical concepts clearly. These skills are vital for designing innovative solutions, ensuring project success, and contributing positively to multidisciplinary engineering teams.

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

AspectGraduate Mechanical EngineeringMechanical Design Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or Design
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level roles, labs, manufacturingDesign offices, R&D departments, manufacturing firms
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in projects, learning engineering principlesCreating and testing mechanical designs, CAD modeling
Industry UsageEntry-level, training, foundational rolesDesign-focused roles, product development

Graduate Mechanical Engineering roles typically involve entry-level tasks, internships, and foundational learning in mechanical principles. Mechanical Design Engineers focus on creating and refining mechanical components using CAD tools, often requiring more specialized design skills. Both roles are common in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and related industries, but the design engineer position usually demands more technical design expertise.

What can a graduate mechanical engineer do after graduation?

A graduate mechanical engineer can pursue roles in design, manufacturing, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems across industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and robotics. They often work with CAD software, perform simulations, and may seek professional certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) to advance their careers.

What jobs can I get with a master's in mechanical engineering?

A master's in mechanical engineering qualifies individuals for roles such as mechanical engineer, design engineer, project engineer, and research and development engineer. These positions often require knowledge of CAD software, thermodynamics, and materials science, and may involve working in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or energy industries.

What jobs can a graduate mechanical engineer get?

A graduate mechanical engineer can pursue roles such as mechanical design engineer, manufacturing engineer, project engineer, or maintenance engineer. These positions typically require knowledge of CAD software, materials, and engineering principles, and may involve working in industries like automotive, aerospace, energy, or robotics.

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Mechanical Engineering jobs in Tennessee?

For Graduate Mechanical Engineering jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Mechanical Engineering jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Mechanical Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:

Graduate Mechanical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Mechanical Engineering job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,374 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Salas O'Brien Engineers Incorporated

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Graduate Mechanical Engineer
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 Description:
  • Assists in the preparation or modification of reports, specifications, plans, construction schedules, studies, permits and designs for assigned projects.
  • Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare engineering and design documents.
  • Aids in client contact and communication pertaining to specific projects.
  • Teams with Senior Engineer and participates in all work the Senior Engineer is performing as an observer.
  • Designs equipment, ductwork, and piping layouts using Revit/BIM to meet project needs.
  • Operates engineering software to solve specific problems, and inputs the data required by the program.
  • Familiarize themselves with state-of-the-art design and various state and local regulations.

Qualifications:
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant degree from ABET accredited school.
  • Past experience through co-op or summer internships helpful.
  • E.I.T. a plus.

Benefits:
  • Gain invaluable industry experience and practical engineering skills.
  • Work with a diverse team of professionals, fostering networking opportunities.
  • Access to mentorship and guidance from experienced engineers.
  • Competitive compensation package.

Location: Knoxville, TN
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.

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