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Hourly Mechanical Engineer Startup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maschmeyer Concrete (Redwing Materials LLC) is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to support the construction, installation, commissioning, and startup of a new state-of-the-art slag ...

Mechanical Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · Remote

$52.88 - $67.30/hr

Mechanical Engineer Location: Salt lake city, UT Type: Contract To Hire Compensation: $52.88 - $67 ... startup phases. * Monitor project budgets, schedules, and scope; review and approve engineering ...

Mechanical Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · Remote

$52.88 - $67.30/hr

Mechanical Engineer Location: Salt lake city, UT Type: Contract To Hire Compensation: $52.88 - $67 ... startup phases. * Monitor project budgets, schedules, and scope; review and approve engineering ...

Mechanical Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · Remote

$52.88 - $67.30/hr

Mechanical Engineer Location: Salt lake city, UT Type: Contract To Hire Compensation: $52.88 - $67 ... startup phases. * Monitor project budgets, schedules, and scope; review and approve engineering ...

Mechanical Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · Remote

$52.88 - $67.30/hr

Mechanical Engineer Location: Salt lake city, UT Type: Contract To Hire Compensation: $52.88 - $67 ... startup phases. * Monitor project budgets, schedules, and scope; review and approve engineering ...

Mechanical Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · Remote

$52.88 - $67.30/hr

Mechanical Engineer Location: Salt lake city, UT Type: Contract To Hire Compensation: $52.88 - $67 ... startup phases. * Monitor project budgets, schedules, and scope; review and approve engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hourly Mechanical Engineer Startup information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do hourly mechanical engineer startup jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for hourly mechanical engineer startup in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an hourly mechanical engineer at a startup?

An hourly mechanical engineer at a startup is a professional who designs, develops, and tests mechanical devices or systems on an hourly wage basis, rather than a salaried or full-time contract. In a startup environment, these engineers often take on a wide range of responsibilities, from prototyping to troubleshooting, and must adapt quickly to changing project needs. Their flexible work arrangement allows startups to access specialized skills without committing to long-term employment, which can be especially valuable during early product development stages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an hourly mechanical engineer in a startup?

To thrive as an Hourly Mechanical Engineer in a startup, you need strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, experience with rapid prototyping, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and familiarity with manufacturing processes are typically required. Adaptability, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this dynamic environment. These qualifications are crucial for efficiently designing, iterating, and collaborating within the fast-paced and resource-constrained context of a startup.

What are some common challenges faced by hourly mechanical engineers at startups, and how can they be addressed?

Hourly mechanical engineers at startups often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing project scopes, tight deadlines, and limited resources. Because startups typically operate with lean teams, you may need to wear multiple hats and quickly adapt to evolving priorities. Open communication, strong organizational skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for thriving in this environment. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as product development and manufacturing, is frequent, so being flexible and receptive to feedback will help ensure project success.

What is the difference between Hourly Mechanical Engineer Startup vs Hourly Mechanical Technician?

AspectHourly Mechanical Engineer StartupHourly Mechanical Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, possibly some certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, project planning in startup settingsHands-on maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair in manufacturing or facilities
Employer & IndustryStartups in manufacturing, engineering, or product developmentFactories, maintenance firms, industrial plants
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and pay differencesJob duties, skills, and certification requirements

Hourly Mechanical Engineers in startups focus on design, analysis, and project planning, often requiring a degree in Mechanical Engineering. In contrast, Hourly Mechanical Technicians handle hands-on maintenance and repairs, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles are vital in industrial settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Do startups hire hourly mechanical engineers?

Startups can hire hourly mechanical engineers, especially for project-based or part-time roles, but most engineering positions are typically salaried due to the specialized skills required. Hourly arrangements are more common for consulting, contract work, or temporary projects within engineering startups. Skills in CAD, prototyping, and rapid development are often valued in these environments.

How much are hourly mechanical engineers paid?

Hourly mechanical engineers typically earn between $25 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced engineers or those working in specialized fields can earn toward the higher end of this range.

How much do hourly mechanical engineers make?

Hourly mechanical engineers typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially when working in startup environments or requiring certifications in CAD or other engineering tools.

What cities are hiring for Hourly Mechanical Engineer Startup jobs?

Cities with the most Hourly Mechanical Engineer Startup job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer Startup jobs?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer Startup jobs are:

What states have the most Hourly Mechanical Engineer Startup jobs?

States with the most job openings for Hourly Mechanical Engineer Startup jobs include:

Infographic showing various Hourly Mechanical Engineer Startup job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Startup Lead / Engineer - Startup & Commissioning

Southern Company

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Southern Company rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Startup Lead / Engineer - Startup & Commissioning

TSS Project Shared Services 

POSITION SUMMARY

In this position you will have the opportunity to research, plan, coordinate, schedule, facilitate, and inspect the day-to-day startup and commissioning activities for Technical Shared Services supporting Projects East/West New Generation, BESS, Southern Company Gas. This position will have some direct responsibilities for the onsite startup management, site activities, contract management, and cost management.

This position will be filled as a Startup Lead / Engineer - Level 5- 6 and will report to the Startup manager. 

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Abide by all safety rules and help establish and maintain a culture focused on safety.
  • Help establish and maintain a culture of inclusiveness and teamwork. 
  • Inspection of construction installations for compliance to drawings and specifications.
  • Assist in the planning for proper sequence and schedule of startup activities to ensure completion within schedule and budget requirements.
  • Ensure that the quality requirements of the applicable plans, specifications and standard practices are met.
  • Maintain an awareness of measurable startup activities to be completed and monitor progress versus schedule requirements.
  • Identify installation problems, assist in developing solutions, and ensure corrective actions are taken by the craft, contractor, or vendor in accordance with an approved plan.
  • Maintain an awareness of equipment and material delivery schedules and monitor deliveries to ensure support of startup activities.
  • Assist site management in administration of the contract(s), including but not limited to reporting, invoicing, scheduling, change management, etc.  

 

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS   

Experience:

  • Previous experience in heavy industrial startup, construction, or capital projects experience preferred.
  • Electrical and Mechanical installation/maintenance/startup experience in a power plant or heavy industrial environment is preferred.
  • Previous experience overseeing startup and operations is preferred.
  • Previous Gas or BESS (large scale battery storage systems) project experience is preferred
  • Multi-discipline knowledge in heavy industrial construction preferred.
  • Startup Candidate must have electrical knowledge with low voltage, high voltage, instrumentation installation & controls and the ability to read and understand single lines, wiring diagrams and operation and maintenance manuals.
  • Startup candidate must have mechanical knowledge with installation of piping, equipment, and general knowledge of civil work and the ability to read and understand piping and instrumentation diagrams, isometrics, and operation and maintenance manuals.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Thorough knowledge of OSHA and applicable environmental regulations.
  • Adequate knowledge of startup and construction standard practices, techniques, quality requirements, applicable codes and standards.
  • Adequate knowledge of construction contracts and labor agreements.
  • Ability to interface with project teams, construction, contractors, designers, vendors and other stakeholders connected with the project.
  • Ability to identify technical problems and assist in providing resolutions to problems.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written are required.
  • Must be flexible, adapting easily to changing priorities.
  • Ability to resolve issues relative to checkout and commissioning and install and operational issues.
  • Ability to assess and mitigate risk continuously.
  • Strong computer skills, particularly proficiency with Microsoft Suite including SharePoint and Teams.

Behavioral Attributes

  • Model Our Values: Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, and Superior Performance.
  • Conduct all activities with a focus on providing superior value to our customers.
  • Results oriented self-starter who takes responsibility for his/her area of responsibility. 
  • The ability to lead and work effectively in a team setting.
  • The ability to be flexible as the demands of the business change.

TRAVEL:

  • This position can/will require travel.
  • This may include some overnight travel and will be primarily within the Southern Company operating territory (AL, GA, IL, VA)

ADDITIONAL DETAILS:

  • Some relocation assistance is available if the selected candidate currently resides outside of a reasonable commute distance.

 

BENEFITS

  • Competitive Pay
  • Excellent benefits packages which includes: 
    • Medical and dental coverage
    • Defined Pension/Cash Balance Benefit Plan
    • Performance-sharing plan
    • 401(k) plan with a generous company match
    • Bonus opportunities
    • Tuition Reimbursement

***Please submit an updated resume with your application***

About Southern Company

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture has been recognized by a variety of organizations, earning the company awards and recognitions that reflect Our Values and dedication to service. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com. 


Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf. Additional and specific details about total compensation and benets will also be provided during the hiring process.


Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

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