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Junior Design Engineer Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

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Junior Design Engineer information

See Kansas salary details

$29.9K

$64K

$97.7K

How much do junior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior design engineer in Kansas is $64,034.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $71,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by junior design engineers during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Junior Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to company-specific design processes, managing multiple project deadlines, and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Building strong communication with senior engineers and actively seeking feedback can help address these hurdles. Participating in team meetings and collaborating closely with other departments, such as manufacturing or quality assurance, also enhances understanding and ensures smoother project execution. Embracing continuous learning and leveraging available training resources will further boost confidence and technical growth in the role.

Are Junior Design Engineers well paid?

Junior Design Engineers typically earn entry-level salaries that vary by industry and location but generally range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Compensation can increase with experience, additional skills such as CAD proficiency, and relevant certifications. Entry-level roles often include opportunities for professional development and skill-building in design software and engineering principles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior design engineer?

To thrive as a Junior Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset help you excel in team settings and adapt to project needs. These skills ensure accurate design work, efficient project collaboration, and successful development of innovative engineering solutions.

What is the role of a junior design engineer?

A junior design engineer assists in developing and modifying engineering designs, often using CAD software, under the supervision of senior engineers. They support project planning, perform calculations, and help ensure designs meet technical specifications and safety standards.

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

AspectJunior Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships or entry-level certificationsBachelor's or higher in mechanical engineering; professional certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDesign departments, R&D labs, manufacturing industries
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in engineering firms, manufacturing, automotive, aerospaceMid to senior-level roles in similar industries, often with more project responsibility

The main difference is that a Junior Design Engineer is an entry-level position focusing on learning and supporting design tasks, while a Mechanical Design Engineer typically has more experience and responsibility in designing mechanical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Mechanical Design Engineer usually has more advanced skills and project ownership.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Kansas? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Junior Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Junior Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Design Engineer job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,034 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Lead Substation Physical Design Engineer

GAI Consultants

Overland Park, KS • On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


GAI Consultants rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

GAI Consultants is seeking a candidate for Substation Physical Design Engineer that will perform physical design related tasks, technical guidance/training/mentoring of staff, and assist with design reviews as required.  The successful candidate will work on various substation engineering projects including detailed design for high voltage substation projects from 12kV through 500kV. Thrive in GAI’s corporate culture that empowers employee advancement with support for career and professional development and engages with staff to build mutual trust and respect and consideration for diverse perspectives, people, experiences, and ideas. 

Job Duties:

  • Manage, design, and perform design checks related to technical activities including, but not limited to, the following:
  • Development of and/or revisions to existing drawings for one-lines, physical arrangements, grounding, conduit, lighting, lightning protection, and rigid bus analysis with the ability to produce the associated drawings utilizing client specific CAD software.
  • Create physical layouts and substation designs that integrate with protection and control drawings.
  • Creation of project criteria.
  • Development of design specifications including the overall bill of materials.
  • Design and sizing of auxiliary systems including AC/DC load centers as well as batteries and chargers.
  • Design and sizing of conduit and high voltage conductor.
  • Ordering long-lead item materials.
  • Assist in reviewing junior engineer’s designs and verify they meet client standards and specifications.
  • Document QAQC reviews, maintain record documents, and communicate information to the team.
  • Traveling to other offices and meeting with clients and attending project-specific meetings on a regular basis.
  • Managing tasks on multiple projects in accordance with GAI’s high standards of project management.
  • Managing and assisting with the development of the scope of services and cost estimates for Substation and P&C projects.
  • Ability to manage competing priorities using sound engineering and financial judgment to determine optimal solutions.
  • Must be flexible to handle shifting deadlines and scope changes.
  • Must have resource management skills and the ability to identify project barriers and mitigate them without schedule impacts.
  • Must be able to manage and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously and be able to work effectively under the pressure of deadlines and unexpected developments.
  • Ability to work extended hours or after hours when required.
  • Ability to create drawings utilizing 3D CAD software is preferred.
  • A minimum of 6 years substation design experience is preferred.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work indoors in professional office settings.  
  • Ability to sit for extended periods while performing computer-based tasks. 
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling office equipment. 
  • Visual acuity to read printed materials, digital screens, detailed documents, and perform detailed work. 
  • Occasional standing, walking, bending, or reaching within the office environment. Ability to move between workstations and attend in-person meetings. 
  • Ability to lift and carry office materials or equipment weighing up to 10-20 pounds, with or without assistance. 
  • Adequate hearing to participate in conversations, phone calls, and virtual meetings. 
  • Ability to travel for meetings, training, or business purposes. 

General Characteristics

  • Applies broad knowledge of principles and practices in a specific practice area.
  • Independently evaluates, selects, and adapts standard techniques, procedures, and criteria.
  • Acquires general knowledge of principles and practices of related fields, and ability to function on multidisciplinary teams.
  • Applies leadership and teamwork skills to effectively plan, execute, and manage scopes, schedules, and budgets to meet project stakeholder needs.

Minimum Years of Experience

  • 6+

Education

  • B.S. Engineering or other technical degree

Certification/Licensure

  • Driver’s License

Technical Responsibilities

  • Supports design of complete project, system, component, or process.
  • Frequently supports preparation of complete plans, specifications, and other project documents.
  • Supports designs and conducts analyses and interprets test data.

Project and Task Management

  • Assigns tasks to and directs other technical and nontechnical staff.
  • Frequently plans and coordinates detailed aspects of the engineering work.
  • Frequently prepares scopes, budgets, and schedules for assignments.
  • Assists with proposals to provide professional services or obtain funding for engineering projects

Management Responsibility

  • Receives general direction on key objectives. Receives guidance, when necessary, on unconventional/complex problems, direction on modified techniques, and new approaches on assignments with conflicting criteria.
  • Assists with mentored experience to direct reports and junior staff through providing guidance, explaining professional responsibilities, and reviewing work products.
  • Attends project meetings and presents specific aspects of engineering assignments.

Communication Skills

  • Communicates effectively to both technical and nontechnical audiences.

Why GAI? 

GAI offers skilled professionals like you an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore anarray of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy work location and scheduling flexibility; your choice of comprehensive, personalized benefits; a range of employee wellness programs and discounts; and more. Feel good about being part of a collaborative teamthat’scommitted to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth. 

Benefits To Working at GAI Include: 

Competitive Pay & Recognition 

  • Marketbased, competitive compensation 
  • Performancedriven recognition and development bonuses 

Comprehensive Health & Wellness 

  • Medical, dental, and vision plans 
  • Companypaid short-term and long-term disability 
  • Companypaid life insurance 
  • Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources 

Meaningful Work–Life Balance 

  • Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays 
  • Anadditionalfloating holiday—use it for what matters to you 
  • Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave 

Growth, Learning & Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Tuition reimbursement 
  • Support and rewards for professional development and certifications 

#INDHP


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About GAI Consultants

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GAI Consultants is an employee-owned corporation offering comprehensive engineering, planning, and environmental consulting services to diverse industry sectors, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The company operates in the field of engineering consulting and provides sustainable and economically-viable solutions to clients ranging from bridge design, community planning, to industrial facilities, ecological studies, and more. GAI Consultants was founded in 1958 and, over more than six decades, has grown significantly with a strong commitment to advancing clients' projects and contributing to community development. The firm operates on the core values of integrity, client satisfaction, quality, and workforce development, all of which raises the bar on client service and project excellence, ultimately contributing to the company’s mission, which is 'to create and deliver superior, innovative consulting solutions that enrich the lives of our people and enhance the world we live in.'

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1958

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