1

Junior Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Seeking a Junior Engineer in Construction! Our employees are thriving both inside and outside of the office. We are growing faster than ever, and it's not because of what we do, but how we do it. It ...

StenTech's Pentagon location in Hillsboro, Oregon is seeking a motivated Junior CAM Programmer to join our manufacturing team. This position is ideal for individuals with machining experience ...

Junior Mechanical Engineer

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

We are seeking a junior mechanical engineer for our Beaverton office who will work with a competent multi-discipline team of peers with a wide range of experience levels. Responsibilities: Designing ...

Junior Mechanical Engineer

Beaverton, OR

$66K - $85K/yr

We are seeking a junior mechanical engineer for our Beaverton office who will work with a competent multi-discipline team of peers with a wide range of experience levels. Responsibilities: Designing ...

The impact you'll make As a Laboratory Service Engineer at Lam, you're a pivotal force in maintaining and upgrading equipment in our applications lab. It's not the typical lab; you'll be hands-on ...

The impact you'll make As a Laboratory Service Engineer at Lam, you're a pivotal force in maintaining and upgrading equipment in our applications lab. It's not the typical lab; you'll be hands-on ...

Mentoring junior engineers and overseeing their work. * Juggling multiple assignments in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Must Haves * Bachelor's Degree in Structural or Civil Engineering and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Junior Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$35.5K

$76.2K

$116.1K

How much do junior engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior engineer in Portland, OR is $76,154.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $84,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Junior Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, relevant technical coursework or a degree, and foundational problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or MATLAB, and sometimes entry-level certifications, is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and eagerness to learn help junior engineers collaborate effectively and adapt to new challenges. These skills and qualities are crucial for contributing to team projects, learning quickly on the job, and developing into a successful engineer.

What is a junior engineer?

A junior engineer is an entry-level engineering professional who reports to and learns from a senior engineer. You can find junior engineering jobs in every subset of the engineering field: industrial engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, materials engineering, and computer engineering. As a junior engineer, your job duties include testing project components, identifying problems and discovering solutions, working on ongoing projects based on specifications or drawings, and collaborating with teams of other engineers.

What are some common challenges faced by junior engineers when starting in a new team, and how can they overcome them?

Junior Engineers often encounter challenges such as adjusting to unfamiliar engineering tools, understanding existing codebases, and communicating effectively with senior team members. To overcome these, it's helpful to actively seek feedback, ask clarifying questions, and participate in code reviews or team meetings. Building relationships with mentors and collaborating closely with peers can accelerate learning and make the transition smoother. Over time, consistent effort and openness to learning help Junior Engineers become valuable contributors to their teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Junior Engineer jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Junior Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,154 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer II

Ascentec Engineering

Tualatin, OR • On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Ascentec Engineering is hiring a Manufacturing Engineer II to serve as an experienced technical contributor responsible for independently managing manufacturing processes, leading moderate-complexity NPI projects, and providing technical guidance to junior engineers. This role demonstrates proven capability in process optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration while developing toward advanced technical leadership and strategic process development. The position requires solid hands-on machining knowledge, the ability to analyze engineering drawings for manufacturability, and demonstrated competence in project management.
This position is on-site (not remote/not hybrid) at our Tualatin headquarters and is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.
Requirements
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
MANUFACTURING PROCESS OWNERSHIP & OPTIMIZATION
Process Development & Refinement:
  • Independently develop and implement manufacturing processes for moderate-complexity components and assemblies
  • Lead NPI projects from concept through full production transition with minimal oversight
  • Optimize existing processes to improve cycle time, yield, and cost-effectiveness
  • Design and validate manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and work-holding solutions
  • Conduct time studies and establish standard work documentation for production operations

Advanced Problem-Solving:
  • Lead root cause analysis investigations for quality escapes and process failures
  • Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) with measurable effectiveness
  • Apply statistical methods (DOE, capability studies) to optimize process parameters
  • Troubleshoot complex machining issues involving multi-axis operations, tight tolerances, and difficult materials
  • Identify and eliminate sources of variation in manufacturing processes

Technical Documentation:
  • Create comprehensive work instructions, process maps, and control plans
  • Develop and maintain process FMEA documentation
  • Establish process validation protocols and acceptance criteria
  • Document lessons learned and contribute to knowledge base development

MANUFACTURING COST MANAGEMENT & VALUE ENGINEERING
Cost Estimation & Analysis:
  • Develop detailed manufacturing cost estimates for new products and process changes
  • Conduct make-vs-buy analysis with supporting financial justification
  • Identify cost reduction opportunities through process improvement and design optimization
  • Track and report cost savings achieved through engineering initiative

Value Engineering Leadership:
  • Collaborate with design engineering to optimize product manufacturability
  • Propose alternative materials, processes, or manufacturing approaches to reduce costs
  • Evaluate emerging manufacturing technologies for potential cost or quality benefits
  • Balance cost objectives with quality, delivery, and performance requirements

TECHNICAL MENTORSHIP & TEAM DEVELOPMENT
Peer & Junior Engineer Support:
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Manufacturing Engineer I team members
  • Review and approve work instructions and process documentation prepared by junior engineers
  • Serve as subject matter expert for specific manufacturing processes or technologies
  • Lead knowledge-sharing sessions on advanced manufacturing techniques

Training Development:
  • Develop and deliver training materials for production personnel on new processes
  • Create visual aids, training videos, and quick-reference guides
  • Assess training effectiveness and implement improvements

PROJECT MANAGEMENT & CROSS-FUNCTIONAL LEADERSHIP
NPI Project Leadership:
  • Manage NPI projects involving 3-5 concurrent work streams with interdependencies
  • Develop project plans with clear milestones, resource requirements, and success criteria
  • Coordinate cross-functional activities across engineering, quality, supply chain, and production
  • Proactively identify and mitigate project risks
  • Report project status to stakeholders with data-driven analysis

Stakeholder Management:
  • Interface with suppliers on technical process development and problem resolution
  • Support customer technical reviews and process qualification activities (with PM coordination)
  • Collaborate with quality engineering on inspection methods and acceptance criteria
  • Partner with production supervision to implement process improvements

QUALITY SYSTEMS & CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
Quality System Contribution:
  • Participate in internal and external quality audits as process owner
  • Lead closure of audit findings related to manufacturing processes
  • Ensure processes comply with ISO9001, AS9100, and customer-specific requirements
  • Maintain process validation and control documentation per quality system requirements

Advanced Quality Tools:
  • Apply SPC techniques to monitor process capability and stability
  • Conduct measurement system analysis (GR&R) studies
  • Implement poka-yoke (error-proofing) solutions
  • Develop process control plans with appropriate reaction plans

Continuous Improvement Leadership:
  • Lead Lean Six Sigma projects targeting specific operational metrics
  • Facilitate kaizen events and value stream mapping activities
  • Implement 5S workplace organization initiatives
  • Track and report improvement project results with validated savings

JOB QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE AND TECHNICAL SKILLS:
Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Industrial Engineering
  • 3-5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in precision machining environment
  • Demonstrated experience leading NPI projects from design through production
  • Experience with CNC programming, setup, troubleshooting, and process optimization

Technical Expertise:
  • Intermediate to Advanced Machining Knowledge: Solid understanding of CNC machining operations, multi-axis programming, tooling selection, feeds/speeds optimization, and setup procedures
  • Manufacturing Cost Estimation: Ability to analyze engineering drawings and develop accurate manufacturing cost estimates with cycle time analysis
  • ERP Systems: Experience with Epicor ERP or similar manufacturing systems for process planning, costing, and project management
  • Quality Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with ISO9001 and AS9100 standards, statistical process control, and CAPA methodologies
  • Process Improvement: Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt certification preferred)

Leadership & Communication:
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with structured approach to root cause analysis
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and contribute to team development
  • Effective collaboration skills with cross-functional teams including design, quality, and production

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Self-starter / Self-motivated / Flexible / Detail oriented
  • Reliable and dependable
  • Positive customer-focused attitude
  • Enjoy fast-paced and rapidly changing environment
  • Honest with good integrity
  • Professional demeanor and respectful to people in all situations
  • Flexible and willing to help others as needs and tasks change often
  • Team player

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Position requires significant time on the production floor conducting process analysis, troubleshooting, and team collaboration
  • Office-based work for project management, cost analysis, documentation, and meetings
  • Occasional travel to supplier facilities or customer sites (<10>
  • May require flexibility for project deadlines and production support requirements
  • Physical requirements include walking, standing, and lifting up to 35 lbs in manufacturing environment

COMPENSATION / BENEFITS:
  • Salary range: $80,000 - $105,000 DOE with performance-based annual review
  • Performance bonus program based on individual and company performance metrics
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with generous company matching contribution
  • Professional development support including certification reimbursement and conference attendance
  • Paid time off / Paid holidays
  • Continuing education opportunities and tuition reimbursement program

Other Requirements:
Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Ascentec Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Ascentec Engineering is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Salary Description
$80,000 to $105,000 per year DOE