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Graduate Trainee Engineer Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

Graduate Trainee Engineer information

See Amherst, MA salary details

$30K

$67.6K

$113.8K

How much do graduate trainee engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate trainee engineer in Amherst, MA is $67,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,200.00 and $73,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate trainee engineer?

Graduate Trainee Engineers are recent university graduates who are hired by companies to undergo training and gain practical experience in engineering roles. These positions are designed to help new engineers develop their technical skills, understand company processes, and prepare for permanent engineering roles within the organization. Graduate trainee programs typically rotate trainees through different departments and projects, exposing them to a variety of engineering challenges. The goal is to build a strong foundation for a successful engineering career.

What do graduate trainee engineers do?

As a Graduate Trainee Engineer, you can anticipate working on a variety of entry-level engineering projects under the supervision of senior engineers. Your responsibilities may include assisting in the design and development of products, conducting tests, preparing technical documentation, and analyzing data. Most programs are structured to rotate you through different departments, allowing you to gain exposure to various engineering functions and build a broad skill set. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is common, providing opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and contribute to meaningful projects early in your career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate trainee engineer?

To thrive as a Graduate Trainee Engineer, you need a solid foundation in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering discipline. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, data analysis programs, and industry-specific standards or certifications is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for collaborating on projects and learning new concepts quickly. These skills enable graduate trainees to effectively contribute to engineering teams, meet project goals, and grow into more advanced roles.

What is the difference between Graduate Trainee Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectGraduate Trainee EngineerJunior Engineer
QualificationsTypically recent graduates with a relevant degreeOften requires some experience or entry-level qualification
Work EnvironmentTraining-focused, supervised learningHands-on, independent tasks with supervision
Employer UsageEntry-level position for new graduatesInitial professional role for early-career engineers

The Graduate Trainee Engineer is primarily a training role designed for recent graduates to develop skills, while a Junior Engineer is an entry-level position where individuals start applying their knowledge in real projects. Both roles are common in engineering industries and serve as stepping stones in an engineering career.

What cities near Amherst, MA are hiring for Graduate Trainee Engineer jobs?

Cities near Amherst, MA with the most Graduate Trainee Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Trainee Engineer job openings in Amherst, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,578 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Part-Time CNC Technician (Trainee Level)

Cenveo Worldwide Limited

Chicopee, MA • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Cenveo is a leading North American manufacturer of envelopes with more than 100 years of industry experience and approximately 30 billion envelopes produced annually.
We are hiring a CNC Technician Trainee (Part-Time) for our Chicopee, MA location.
Job Summary
The Part-Time CNC Technician Trainee position is intended for a recent technical school graduate or individuals within one year of graduation who possess advanced CNC machining skills and are interested in building a career in manufacturing.
In this developmental role, the incumbent will work alongside experienced machinists and maintenance professionals in an envelope manufacturing environment, supporting tooling production, machine modifications, equipment maintenance, and process improvement activities.
The position offers hands-on industrial experience and professional development opportunities designed to prepare a high-potential candidate for future full-time manufacturing position within the organization.
Key Responsibilities (Essential Functions)
These are functions a qualified incumbent or applicant must be able to perform with or without reasonable accommodation.
CNC Operations & Learning
  • Assist with CNC machine setup, operation, and basic programming adjustments under supervision.
  • Produce tooling, replacement parts, and machine components according to specifications.
  • Learn and apply machining principles, manufacturing processes, and quality standards.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and technical documentation.

Manufacturing Support
  • Assist maintenance and production teams with fabrication and repair projects.
  • Support equipment modifications and machine improvement initiatives.
  • Learn the operation of envelope manufacturing equipment; related production processes.
  • Maintain productivity while adhering to quality requirements.

Quality & Continuous Improvement
  • Inspect parts using measuring instruments to verify compliance with specifications.
  • Assist in identifying root causes of quality issues.
  • Participate in continuous improvement and cost-saving initiatives.
  • Support efforts to improve machine reliability and manufacturing efficiency.

Technical Development
  • Participate in on-the-job training and mentoring opportunities.
  • Develop troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to CNC and manufacturing equipment.
  • Learn preventive maintenance practices and industrial safety procedures.
  • Seek opportunities to expand technical knowledge and practical manufacturing experience.

Safety & Compliance
  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
  • Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
  • Adhere to quality standards and operational guidelines.

Documentation & Reporting
  • Complete assigned production and project documentation.
  • Record measurements, settings, and work performed as required.
  • Communicate project progress and concerns to supervisors and mentors.

Other (Non-Essential) Functions
The duties listed are typical for this role but may be reassigned to other employees as a reasonable accommodation under the ADA.
  • Other duties and assignments as required.

Pay & Work Schedule
  • Hourly Pay: $19 - 20
  • Scheduled hours will not exceed 24 hours per week.
  • Flexibility required based on business needs
  • Position is intended as a developmental opportunity with potential for full-time employment.

Job Requirements
  • Recent graduate or within one year of graduation from an accredited technical, vocational, trade school.
  • Certificate, diploma, or associate degree in CNC Machining, Precision Manufacturing, Machine Tool Technology, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred.
  • Demonstrated CNC machining knowledge through coursework, laboratory training, internships, apprenticeships, or related projects.
  • Ability to read blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications.
  • Basic understanding of CNC programming and machining operations.
  • Familiarity with precision measuring instruments such as calipers and micrometers.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn; Basic computer skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Interest in pursuing a long-term manufacturing career.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment
  • Requires frequent standing, walking, carrying, bending, stooping, grasping, and reaching.
  • Ability to perform detailed mechanical and machining work with accuracy.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., carry 50 lbs., push 100 lbs., pull 75 lbs.
  • Exposure to manufacturing noise; hearing protection and safety shoes required.
  • Work performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery/industrial equipment.

CENVEO IS AN EEO EMPLOYER
INDCVOP
Please refer to job description.