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Mechanical Design Engineer Entry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$70K - $95K/yr

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 2) / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 3) to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hudson, MA

$80K - $108K/yr

Test Devices by Schenck is seeking to hire a Mechanical Design Engineer! We're seeking a detail-driven Mechanical Design Engineer to bring ideas to life through innovative design and problem-solving.

Mechanical Design Engineer Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Memphis, TN Salary: $60K - $110K (DOE) Position Summary We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support a variety of ...

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Bellevue, Washington Type: Contract Compensation: $52 - $85 hourly Contractor Work Model: Hybrid System One is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support the ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Hudson, MA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Description Test Devices by Schenck is seeking to hire a Mechanical Design Engineer! We're seeking a detail-driven Mechanical Design Engineer to bring ideas to life through innovative design and ...

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Mechanical Design Engineer Entry information

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$33

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How much do mechanical design engineer entry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanical design engineer entry in the United States is $33.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.92 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level Mechanical Design Engineers, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level Mechanical Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to industry-standard CAD software, balancing multiple project deadlines, and translating theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. Collaborating closely with senior engineers and seeking feedback can accelerate skill development and confidence. Participating in design reviews and actively communicating with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing and quality assurance, also helps new engineers understand the broader impact of their work and avoid common pitfalls.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry-Level Mechanical Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and at least a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and finite element analysis (FEA) software is typically required, and certifications such as EIT (Engineer-in-Training) can be beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills make candidates stand out. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable products, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring that projects meet technical and safety requirements.

What does a Mechanical Design Engineer Entry do?

A Mechanical Design Engineer Entry is an early-career professional who assists in designing and developing mechanical components, systems, and products. They typically use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and prototypes, collaborate with senior engineers, and help test and improve designs. Their work supports the production of efficient, safe, and cost-effective mechanical solutions in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

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

AspectMechanical Design Engineer EntryMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internship experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, professional experience
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, collaborative teamsDesign teams, manufacturing plants, project sites
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in manufacturing, automotive, aerospaceMid-level roles with more responsibilities in similar industries

The main difference between a Mechanical Design Engineer Entry and a Mechanical Design Engineer is experience level. Entry roles are suitable for recent graduates with limited experience, focusing on learning and supporting design tasks. The Mechanical Design Engineer typically has more experience, handles complex projects, and takes on greater responsibilities within the same industries.

More about Mechanical Design Engineer Entry jobs
What cities are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineer Entry jobs? Cities with the most Mechanical Design Engineer Entry job openings:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineer Entry job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,055 per year, or $33.2 per hour.
Mechanical Design Engineer / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

$70K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 355 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

113th of 534 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 2) / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 3) to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Test and Evaluation organization. This role is located in Oklahoma City and Tinker Air Force Base, OK .

As a member of the Engineering Design Center and Lab Operations, you will be an integral part of the design team, developing custom testing solutions and specialized support equipment for the B-2 Stealth Bomber and other platforms. The ideal candidate will work as a collaborative member of a multi-discipline engineering team, responsible for the development and integration of mechanical designs in a laboratory environment, with a focus on first-time quality and engineering rigor.

Key Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

  • Development of 3D CAD models, detail part, assembly and integration drawings

  • Coordination and liaison of mechanical engineering designs through the procurement and manufacturing process

  • Coordination and liaison of electrical design integration and assembly

  • Lead and coordinate integration of hardware in a laboratory environment

  • Development of documentation in support of designs and product lifecycle management

  • Support troubleshooting and system verification in a lab setting

  • Thrive in a dynamic work environment with high expectations, collaborative/team settings across all levels.

We offer flexible work arrangements, 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.

Basic Qualifications

This requisition may be filled at an Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 2) OR Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 3) level based on the qualifications below.

Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 2)

  • Must have a Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline and 2 years of related professional/military experience; OR a Master's Degree in a STEM discipline and 0 years of related professional/military experience.

  • Must have an active DoD Secret or higher clearance, with a background investigation completed within the last 6 years or currently enrolled into Continuous Evaluation

  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance, within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the company to meet its business need.

  • Must have experience developing mechanical designs using tools such as CATIA V5, SolidWorks, NX, AutoCAD, or similar design software tools

Principal Mechanical Design Engineer (Level 3)

  • Must have a Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline and 5 years of related professional/military experience; OR a Master's Degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related professional/military experience; OR a Ph.D. in a STEM discipline and 1 year of related professional/military experience.

  • Must have an active DoD Secret or higher clearance, with a background investigation completed within the last 6 years or currently enrolled into Continuous Evaluation

  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance, within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the company to meet its business need.

  • Must have experience developing mechanical designs using tools such as CATIA V5, SolidWorks, NX, AutoCAD, or similar design software tools

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field

  • Professional experience in aerospace and defense.

  • Active Top Secret clearance

  • Active Program access

  • Mechanical design experience using CATIA V5

  • Experience with PLM systems

  • Experience in Additive Manufacturing or 3D print design and technologies

  • Hardware integration experience in a laboratory environment

  • Demonstrated experience working in a dynamic environment with competing priorities

Primary Level Salary Range: $68,200.00 - $102,400.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $84,700.00 - $127,100.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939