1

Junior Design Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Design Engineer - Piping to support the engineering ... Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior piping designers and engineers. * Participate ...

Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance. Skills and Qualifications * 10 to 15 years ... Proficient in engineering design software such as AutoCAD, STAAD Pro, and project management tools.

Mechanical Hardware Engineer

Harrodsburg, KY · Hybrid

$60K - $81K/yr

Benchmarking and design optimization of free/forced convection architectures and design ... The individual may directly manage junior engineers and will be responsible for managing their ...

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (transportation, drainage, structures, utilities) to integrate design components. * Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers and interns.

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (transportation, drainage, structures, utilities) to integrate design components. * Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers and interns.

Centrus Energy is seeking a proactive Electrical Design Engineer to join our team. If you have ... junior designer, or similar role * Familiarity with industrial control panels, MCCs, and low ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Junior Design Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$29.1K

$62.4K

$95.1K

How much do junior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior design engineer in Kentucky is $62,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $69,500.00 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 Kentucky? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
Infographic showing various Junior Design Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,360 per year, or $30 per hour.

Senior Roadway Design Engineer

GAI Consultants Inc.

Louisville, KY • On-site

$74K - $91K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 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

Description

GAI Consultants, Inc. is seeking an Engineer 2 (Roadway Design) to work to work within our Kentucky Transportation Division. The successful candidate will enjoy working in a challenging, fast-paced, varied, and team-oriented environment that will use their related experience to develop professionally and grow in today's global environment. Remote and/or Hybrid work options (home or office) are also a viable option, and the successful candidate will be eligible for a sign-on bonus.

Job Duties:

  • Roadway design for KYTC and Local Public Agency (LPA) clients
  • Creates and reviews project design calculations, quantity takeoffs, specifications, plans and contract documents
  • Works within the Transportation Team
  • Works within project schedules and budgets
  • Applies KYTC design manual and AASHTO principles to highway design
  • Utilizes roadway design CADD software
  • May provide leadership, coaching, and/or mentoring to a subordinate group.

General Characteristics

  • Begins to become well-rounded with aspects of consulting, industry standards, and Company protocols. Position requires a strong emphasis on client development; participation in professional societies and industry associations is preferred.
  • Coming up with ideas to improve productivity of a specific team, department, group, or division.
  • Strategic thinking and alignment: Manager must understand broader organizational strategies and goals to effectively guide direct reports' efforts.
  • Change leadership: Manager plays an important role enacting top-level changes across operational divisions as supporters of change.

Minimum Years of Experience

  • 12+ Years of Experience

Education

  • Bachelors in Engineering or related field.

Certification/Licensure

  • Driver's License
  • Professional Engineer (PE)

Technical Responsibilities

  • Continues to show progress in oversight and coordination of project tasks; Available to junior staff for guidance; Provides opportunities to junior staff for becoming familiar with task management and financials. * Recruiting and retaining staff.
  • Interpreting the strategy of toplevel management and translating it into everyday policies. Developing and implementing day-to-day routines for a team, department, group, or division.
  • Talent development: Develop Staff skills and empowering them as problem-solvers boosts innovation and productivity.
  • Oversee learning, coaching, and career progression.

Project and Task Management

  • Responsible for task management and adherence to deadlines and scope.

Management Responsibility

  • Hires staff; Manages performance and career paths; Coordinates assignments to CADD staff from project team; Manages 3 to 6 staff.
  • Monitoring employee performance.
  • Making sure that processes and procedures are in compliance with the overall organization's guidelines.
  • Inspiring and encouraging employees to perform their best. * Assigning and supervising specific work tasks.
  • Allocating resources within a team, department, group, or division.
  • Reporting issues and performance to top-level management.
  • Well-being fostering: Prioritizing mental health, work-life integration and enhances retention.
  • Manager shapes day-to-day workplace experiences.

Communication Skills

  • Begins to routinely interact with clients, customers, government officials, contractors, and others; leads project meetings and presentations; possess marketing and sales skills; represents Company in a positive light; interacts with Task Managers and Business Sector Leaders on a regular basis; attends meetings with higherlevel officials of the company on project status including financials.

Why GAI?

At GAI, exceptional people have an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy comprehensive benefits and feel good about being part of a collaborative team that's committed 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 salary -GAI is committed to paying market-based salaries
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, company paid Long Term Disability, and Short-Term Disability (benefits start within 30 days of hire)
  • New paid Maternity/Paternity/Adoption program
  • Generous Paid Time Off and 7 paid holidays
  • 401k company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement

#INDHP

Qualifications

Education
Bachelors of Engineering (required)
Associates of Drafting (preferred)

Experience
12 years: Related Experience (required)

Licenses & Certifications
Driver's License (required)

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.


What GAI Consultants employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


GAI Consultants logo

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

Social media