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Mechanical Design Engineering Jobs in Portland, OR

Staff Mechanical Design Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct ... Conduct advanced engineering analysis, including FEA, tolerance stack-up, and design for ...

Perform mechanical design work and engineering calculations to support equipment selection, sizing, and system layout. * 3D & 2D Modeling: Create and maintain 3D models in SolidWorks and 2D drawings ...

Support continuous improvement efforts within the design process. * Assist with engineering change ... Associate's degree in Mechanical Design, Engineering Technology, Drafting, or a related field is ...

Mechanical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$48 - $58/hr

Mechanical Engineer This Mechanical Engineer role focuses on modeling and designing, including ... Use CAD tools, primarily Creo, to develop 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings that meet ...

Mechanical Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$48 - $58/hr

Mechanical Engineer This Mechanical Engineer role focuses on modeling and designing, including ... Use CAD tools, primarily Creo, to develop 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings that meet ...

Mechanical Engineer This Mechanical Engineer role focuses on modeling and designing, including ... Use CAD tools, primarily Creo, to develop 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings that meet ...

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Showing results 1-20

Mechanical Design Engineering information

See Portland, OR salary details

$48.3K

$97.1K

$144.8K

How much do mechanical design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineering in Portland, OR is $97,119.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,600.00 and $109,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mechanical design engineering?

Mechanical design engineering is a branch of engineering focused on designing, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems and products. Mechanical design engineers use principles of physics, mathematics, and material science to create everything from small individual parts to large-scale machinery. Their work often involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed models and prototypes before manufacturing. This discipline is essential in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and consumer electronics, ensuring that products are efficient, reliable, and cost-effective.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and certifications like FE or PE, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure innovative, safe, and efficient design solutions that meet project requirements and industry standards.

What are some of the common challenges mechanical design engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Mechanical Design Engineers often collaborate with electrical engineers, manufacturing teams, and project managers. One common challenge is ensuring that the mechanical design aligns with electrical requirements and manufacturability constraints, which can require frequent communication and compromise. Balancing innovative ideas with practical limitations such as budget, materials, and timelines is also a recurring challenge. Successful engineers develop strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to navigate these multidisciplinary interactions effectively.

What is the difference between Mechanical Design Engineering vs Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering?

AspectMechanical Design EngineeringMechanical Manufacturing Engineering
Primary FocusDesign and development of mechanical components and systemsManufacturing processes, production efficiency, and quality control
Skills & CertificationsCAD software, engineering principles, often requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineeringManufacturing methods, quality assurance, often requires a bachelor's in mechanical or manufacturing engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, CAD workstationsFactories, production lines, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageProduct design, R&D, prototypingMass production, assembly, process optimization

Mechanical Design Engineering focuses on creating and developing mechanical systems and components, while Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering emphasizes the production, process improvement, and quality control of those designs. Both roles require a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles and often collaborate closely in product development cycles.

Are mechanical design engineers in demand?

Mechanical design engineers are in steady demand across industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive, especially for those skilled in CAD software and product development. Employment growth is driven by technological advancements and the need for innovative, efficient designs, making it a stable career choice.

What does a mechanical design engineer do?

A mechanical design engineer develops, analyzes, and tests mechanical devices and systems using CAD software and engineering principles. They create detailed drawings, select materials, and ensure designs meet safety and performance standards, often collaborating with manufacturing teams. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering tools are essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Portland, OR?

For Mechanical Design Engineering jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineering jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Mechanical Design Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineering job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,119 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Curtisswright

Portland, OR • On-site

$94K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and analyze complex mechanical systems, equipment, and packaging solutions to meet structural, thermal, and manufacturability requirements.

  • Collaborate with drafting, prototyping, and support teams to create detailed mechanical drawings, packaging documentation, and functional prototypes.

  • Perform hands-on testing, experimental design, and data analysis to validate concepts, troubleshoot discrepancies, and refine designs.


Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer leads the development work, problem resolution and design of new products and their related component technologies and processes. This position will work directly with an in-house industrial designer to generate new product ideas and concepts. Concepts can be prototyped by technicians in our onsite prototype shop with many process including, rapid prototyping, 5-axis machining, injection molding, EDM, metal forming, etc. Development work will help to expand into new areas and products in the sports and recreation, construction, agriculture, and on-highway markets. Though not a supervisory position, the Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer will provide engineering assistance and consultation to other engineers and departments on technical matters.

Location: Portland, OR

Salary Range: $94,700 - 110,000 per year

Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Oregon. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.

We Take Care of Our People

Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase PlanI Inclusive & Supportive Culture *

Your Challenge:

  • Effectively manages, supports, and coordinates projects, with minimal guidance from Engineering Manager and Senior/lead engineers. Conceives and develops new products, material applications, and processes to meet objectives of management and customers. Performs on-going conceptual and detailed design, design review, and engineering analysis in support of New Product Introduction (NPI) projects. Ensures all objectives regarding aesthetics, functionality, specifications, and manufacturability are met. Oversees the use of appropriate modeling and concept visualization techniques in keeping with data and client evaluations. Assures that engineering support of new products meet quality, governmental, and customer specifications and is current with industry best practice.

  • Visits customers with sales or engineering management personnel on an assigned basis to ensure that products meet customer requirements. Recommends design approaches and solutions to technical problems affecting customers on routine matters and obtains assistance from peers, other departments, and engineering management on critical issues. Interfaces directly with customer engineering in the design of new components and assemblies. Works closely with clients and internal customers to create math models of new products. Assures advisement given is in keeping with internal processes, industry best practices, and meets customer and regulatory requirements.

  • Responsible for supporting all technical based processes on projects such as: Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA), Process Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (PFMEA) reviews, TS 16949 and US Government Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). Ensures all quality reviews, tests, and prototypes are documented.

  • Prepares and delivers detailed engineering specifications and data regarding product testing and release to the Manufacturing Department, using 3D design. Coordinates with the Manufacturing Department to resolve assembly, design, and measurement and/or specification issues.

  • Analyzes final pedal design with various plastics and metals for stress using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to ensure that the product meets customer specifications, making proper adjustments or changes to refine the design when appropriate.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

  • Five to ten years product development or other engineering related area

  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written

  • Excellent interpersonal skills, planning, and organizational abilities are essential

  • Strong computer skills including MS Office

  • 3D CAD (Solidworks preferred)

  • Prior project management experience preferred

  • ERP/ MRP Software experience preferred

  • Knowledge of Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing techniques in the automobile or commercial vehicle industry preferred

  • Knowledge of Quality Systems preferred

Who We Are

Williams Controls Inc., a business unit of Curtiss-Wright manufactures products such as electronic, hydraulic and pneumatic throttle controls, configurable joysticks, adjustable pedal systems, sensors, hand controls and armrest systems for use on all types of commercial vehicles. The products are the legacy of the Williams Controls company founded in 1937 and acquired by Curtiss-Wright in 2012. Find out more information and view our products here: https://www.cw-industrialgroup.com/About/Williams-Controls

#LI-YH1

No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.

Compliance Statement

This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.

Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contactTalent Acquisition.

For US Applicants:EEO is The Law - click here for more information.

If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.


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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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