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Mechanical Design Engineer Automotive Jobs in Rochester, NY

Pay Range: $33hr - $38hr Requirement/Must Have: * 1+ years of experience in mechanical design engineering. * Strong verbal and written communication skills. * Ability to communicate effectively with ...

You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home ... Engineering, or a related field. * 5+ years of applied mechanical design experience in ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Newark, NY · On-site

$38.46 - $40.87/hr

Position Summary The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for creating and updating 3D models and associated drawings for prototypes, production parts, tools and fixtures. This position works ...

Mechanical Engineer Team Lead

Webster, NY · On-site

$101K - $122K/yr

Proficient in handling the complete design process, from initial concept development to detailed ... Tool-making, electrical, automotive exc. * Must be fluent in reading, writing, speaking, and ...

Mechanical Engineer Team Lead

Webster, NY · On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

Proficient in handling the complete design process, from initial concept development to detailed ... Tool-making, electrical, automotive exc. * Must be fluent in reading, writing, speaking, and ...

Mechanical Engineer Team Lead

Webster, NY · On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

Proficient in handling the complete design process, from initial concept development to detailed ... Tool-making, electrical, automotive exc. * Must be fluent in reading, writing, speaking, and ...

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Mechanical Design Engineer Automotive information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$44.9K

$90.4K

$134.7K

How much do mechanical design engineer automotive jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineer automotive in Rochester, NY is $90,357.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $101,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mechanical design engineer do in the automotive industry?

A Mechanical Design Engineer in the automotive industry is responsible for creating, developing, and testing components and systems for vehicles. This includes designing parts such as engines, transmissions, chassis, and other structural elements using computer-aided design (CAD) software. They work closely with other engineers and departments to ensure designs meet safety, efficiency, and cost requirements while adhering to industry standards. Their role often involves problem-solving, prototyping, and improving existing vehicle designs to enhance performance and reliability.

What are typical challenges mechanical design engineers face when working on automotive projects?

Mechanical Design Engineers in the automotive industry often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative design with strict safety and regulatory standards, managing tight project deadlines, and integrating new technologies while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—like electrical engineers, manufacturing, and quality assurance—is essential to ensure that designs are feasible for mass production and meet performance targets. Navigating frequent design revisions and adapting to evolving customer requirements also form a core part of the role.

What is the difference between Mechanical Design Engineer Automotive vs Mechanical Design Engineer Aerospace?

AspectMechanical Design Engineer AutomotiveMechanical Design Engineer Aerospace
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, certifications like CAD or FEABachelor's in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentAutomotive manufacturing plants, R&D labsAerospace manufacturing, research facilities
Industry UsageVehicle design, engine components, chassisAircraft parts, spacecraft components, aerodynamics

Both roles involve mechanical design and engineering principles, but Automotive engineers focus on vehicle systems and components for cars, while Aerospace engineers specialize in aircraft and spacecraft. The core skills and certifications overlap, but the industry-specific applications differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical design engineer in the automotive industry?

To thrive as a Mechanical Design Engineer in automotive, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, automotive systems, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in CAD software (such as CATIA, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD), familiarity with simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards like ISO/TS 16949 are typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective teamwork enable engineers to develop innovative solutions and collaborate across departments. These skills ensure the creation of safe, efficient, and high-quality automotive components that meet both performance and regulatory requirements.
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Design Engineer Automotive jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Design Engineer Automotive jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineer Automotive jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Mechanical Design Engineer Automotive job openings:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineer Automotive job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,357 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Entry-level Mechanical Design Engineer

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Rochester, NY

$30 - $34.86/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 447 rated engineering


Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Department: Plumbing /Fire Protection

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary

The Mechanical Design Engineer supports the design and development of HVAC and mechanical systems for building projects while building foundational skills toward advancement as a Project Engineer or Design Engineer. This role contributes to all phases of mechanical design, documentation, coordination, and engineering analysis under the guidance of senior staff.

The Mechanical Design Engineer plays an important role in delivering high-quality, coordinated system designs across a variety of building types.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in preparing contract documents, including drawings and specifications
  • Plan, schedule, and contribute to mechanical design tasks under the guidance of senior engineers
  • Perform conventional engineering calculations and develop elementary designs from schematic sketches
  • Support the design of HVAC and mechanical systems in accordance with company standards
  • Coordinate with Senior Engineers, Project Engineers, Designers, and Project Managers to support production
  • Assist with interdisciplinary coordination between mechanical, electrical, and plumbing teams
  • Communicate effectively to support consistent project progress
  • Participate in field investigations to collect data and verify site conditions
  • Support quality control efforts and incorporate design feedback from senior technical staff

Qualifications and Experience

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or Master of Science in a related field, or equivalent
  • Early-career to mid-level mechanical design experience preferred (internships, co-op, or 1–2 years professional experience)
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD and/or Revit preferred
  • Strong interest in HVAC and building mechanical system design
  • Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals and mechanical design principles

Travel

Travel to project sites may be required on an occasional basis. 5-10%

Location: Rochester, New York

Compensation & Benefits

The expected base salary range for this role is $30.00 - $34.86 USD per hour. This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime in accordance with applicable laws. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

This role is also eligible for a comprehensive U.S.-based benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.

Third-Party Agency Notice

Salas O’Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.

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