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Mechanical Engineer 3 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AURA

Mechanical Engineer III

Boulder, CO · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

The Mechanical Engineer III is a critical contributor to the success of the Next-Generation Global Observing Network Group (ngGONG) design project, bridging detailed mechanical engineering with ...

Luxus

Mechanical Engineer III

Orlando, FL

$85K - $115K/yr

Mechanical Engineer III Company Name: RTM Engineering Consultants Location: Orlando, FL | Phoenix, AZ | Ambler, PA | Boston, MA Project Focus: MEP Systems (HVAC, Plumbing, & Fire Protection) Work ...

Luxus

Mechanical Engineer III

Orlando, FL

$85K - $115K/yr

Mechanical Engineer III Company Name: RTM Engineering Consultants Location: Orlando, FL | Phoenix, AZ | Ambler, PA | Boston, MA Project Focus: MEP Systems (HVAC, Plumbing, & Fire Protection) Work ...

Luxus

Mechanical Engineer III

Orlando, FL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Mechanical Engineer III Company Name: RTM Engineering Consultants Location: Orlando, FL | Phoenix, AZ | Ambler, PA | Boston, MA Project Focus: MEP Systems (HVAC, Plumbing, & Fire Protection) Work ...

Clark Nexsen

Mechanical Engineer III

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Clark Nexsen is seeking a Mechanical Engineer III who will be responsible for design, engineering, analysis, equipment selection, and system layout of HVAC, plumbing, piping, and related mechanical ...

Clark Nexsen

Mechanical Engineer III

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Clark Nexsen is seeking a Mechanical Engineer III who will be responsible for design, engineering, analysis, equipment selection, and system layout of HVAC, plumbing, piping, and related mechanical ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer 3 Jobs

Mechanical Engineer 3 information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do mechanical engineer 3 jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer 3 in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can I get with a level 3 in engineering?

A Level 3 in engineering typically qualifies individuals for technician or associate engineering roles, such as Mechanical Engineering Technician or Manufacturing Technician. These positions often involve supporting design, production, or maintenance activities and may require familiarity with CAD software and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mechanical Engineer 3, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer 3, you need a solid background in mechanical design, problem-solving, and engineering analysis, typically with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and several years of experience. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), finite element analysis tools, and project management systems is often required, along with relevant certifications like a PE license. Strong communication, teamwork, and project leadership skills help you effectively collaborate and mentor junior engineers. These capabilities are crucial for delivering high-quality engineering solutions and managing complex projects efficiently.

What does mechanical engineer 3 mean?

A Mechanical Engineer 3 is a mid- to senior-level engineering position that typically requires several years of experience, advanced technical skills, and often involves leading projects or mentoring junior engineers. The designation indicates a higher level of responsibility and expertise within an engineering team, often requiring proficiency with CAD software, analysis tools, and industry standards. Salary and expectations vary by organization but generally reflect increased scope and complexity of work compared to lower-level engineering roles.

How does a Mechanical Engineer 3 typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during project development?

As a Mechanical Engineer 3, you'll frequently work with cross-functional teams such as electrical engineers, manufacturing specialists, and project managers to ensure all design aspects align with overall project goals. This collaboration often involves participating in design reviews, providing technical input, and coordinating with other departments to resolve integration challenges. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as you'll be expected to both guide junior engineers and consult with senior staff. Your ability to manage interdisciplinary feedback and maintain project timelines will be key to your success in this role.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What are Mechanical Engineer 3s?

A Mechanical Engineer 3 is a mid- to senior-level mechanical engineering professional who typically has several years of experience in designing, developing, testing, and overseeing the manufacturing of mechanical devices or systems. They are often responsible for complex engineering projects, providing technical guidance to junior engineers, and ensuring that designs meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Mechanical Engineer 3s may also be involved in project management, process optimization, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver solutions. Their role requires strong analytical skills, proficiency with engineering software, and a solid understanding of mechanical principles.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineer 3 vs Mechanical Engineer 2?

CriteriaMechanical Engineer 3Mechanical Engineer 2
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; PE license may be optional
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace industriesSimilar environments, often with more supervision or entry-level tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across engineering firms, manufacturing companies, and government agenciesCommonly used in the same sectors, typically for less experienced roles

Mechanical Engineer 3 typically has more experience, responsibilities, and often a PE license, compared to Mechanical Engineer 2. The role involves more complex projects and independent work, whereas Mechanical Engineer 2 may focus on supporting tasks under supervision.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior-level engineers such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain specialized software engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive or managerial engineering roles may also reach this compensation level, often including bonuses and stock options.
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What cities are hiring for Mechanical Engineer 3 jobs? Cities with the most Mechanical Engineer 3 job openings:
What states have the most Mechanical Engineer 3 jobs? States with the most job openings for Mechanical Engineer 3 jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer 3 jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer 3 jobs are:
Mechanical Engineer 3 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer 3 job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Association Of Universities For Research In Astronomy

Maui, HI

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

The Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST) is the world’s most advanced solar observatory. We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to play a vital role in maintaining, supporting, and enhancing the complex facilities and telescope mechanical systems that ensure the reliability of mission-critical systems and help drive discoveries that deepen our understanding of the Sun.

The position is available at two levels (Mechanical Engineer II or Mechanical Engineer III), depending on the successful candidates’ experience, education, and demonstrated ability. All DKIST employees work in a collaborative, team-based environment supporting observatory operations and maintenance.

The position is based at our spectacular Haleakala Observatory site in Maui, Hawai‘i.

Job Level Summary

Mechanical Engineer III

  • The Mechanical Engineer III leads engineering projects of moderate complexity and provides coordination support across one or more project phases or divisions of advanced mechanical systems. Plans and executes technical activities, resolves complex engineering problems, and exercises broad discretion with minimal supervision.

Mechanical Engineer II

  • The Mechanical Engineer II performs moderately complex mechanical design and development tasks with moderate supervision. Leads and coordinates minor engineering projects to completion, resolves routine technical issues, and contributes to project planning and execution.

Essential Functions

All Levels – Specific

  • Perform engineering design and analysis using CAD modeling, simulation, and other computational tools.
  • Support project execution by overseeing quality assurance, fabrication, and inspection activities for assigned systems and components.
  • Develop, execute, and document test procedures to verify system and component performance.
  • Assist in the development and execution of preventive maintenance activities for new and existing mechanical systems.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical systems and components, identify root causes of failures, and implement corrective actions to restore functionality.
  • Coordinate technical activities and resolve engineering issues in collaboration with multidisciplinary project teams.
  • Prepare clear and comprehensive technical documentation and reports covering design, analysis, testing, and investigations.
  • Engage in continuous professional development to support observatory objectives and evolving engineering requirements.

All Levels – General

  • Document and maintain accurate records of activities, mechanical upgrades, and system performance
  • Work in accordance with applicable safety standards. Ensure safety of operations in areas under purview. Report any unsafe conditions and practices and actively participate in team safety meetings and adhere to safety procedures and protocols.
  • Sensitive to and respectful of cultural, community, and environmental issues.
  • Contribute to a collaborative, respectful, and productive workplace by maintaining open communication, supporting team efforts, and fostering a sense of belonging within the team.
  • Expected to take initiative in their professional development by seeking feedback, improving skills, and identifying areas for personal growth. This includes participating in training opportunities and development programs provided by the organization.
  • All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property Officer.
  • Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position as defined in the Vela Award Management system, https://cas.aura-astronomy.org/Awards.
  • Travel to vendor sites, trainings, and conferences as required
  • Perform other Duties as assigned

*Full list of essential functions per Job Level is in the Job Description

Qualifications & Requirements

Education, Certification, and Experience

Mechanical Engineer III

  • Bachelor's Degree (BS) in Mechanical Engineering and Engineer-In-Training (EIT) (FE) License, required.
  • 5+ years of General Workforce Experience in the Field of Mechanical Engineering with progressively increasing responsibilities in design, analysis, project management, and implementation of mechanical systems.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) License preferred. Experience working in a research and development or astronomical facility and working with observing instruments is also preferred.

Mechanical Engineer II

  • Bachelor's Degree (BS) in Mechanical Engineering, required.
  • 1+ years of General Workforce Experience in the Field of Mechanical Engineering with progressively increasing responsibilities in design, analysis, project management, and implementation of mechanical systems.
  • Engineer-In-Training (EIT) (FE) License, preferred.

Required Skills & Abilities

Mechanical Engineer III
 
Required:
  • Efficient in the use of general computer applications including MS Office Suite, Google Drive & Apps, E-Mail, Slack, Adobe, etc.
  • Proficient with Solidworks or equivalent 3D modeling software.
  • Experience with mechanical machine components including, drive transmission elements, structures, actuators and mechanisms, hardware, bearings, gearing, and lubrication.
  • Knowledge of material properties and selection.
  • Knowledge of general fabrication techniques.
  • Proficient in project, workflow, and document tracking software such as JIRA and Confluence.      

Preferred:

  • Experience with maintenance management systems, tools, software, and process development
  • Knowledge of GD&T Concepts and Methodology.
  • Experience using Finite Element Analysis (ANSYS Prefered) and Computational Fluid Dynamics software tools
  • Experience with process control, thermal control, HVAC, and compressed air systems and equipment including pumps, piping, valves, transmitters, air handling units, chillers, and compressors.
  • Familiarity with advanced manufacturing operations including CNC machining and programing
  • Experienced with high precision alignment and analysis tools, laser trackers, CMM Arms, Theodolite
  • Familiarity with vibration principles, mitigation strategies, and measurement and analysis tools.
  • Familiarity with optics, opto-mechanical design concepts, clean-room protocols, vacuum and cryogenic systems  
 
 

Mechanical Engineer II
Required:

  • Efficient in the use of general computer applications including MS Office Suite, Google Drive & Apps, E-Mail, Slack, Adobe, etc.
  • Proficient with Solidworks or equivalent 3D modeling software.
  • Experience with mechanical machine components including, drive transmission elements, structures, actuators and mechanisms, hardware, bearings, gearing, and lubrication.
  • Knowledge of material properties and selection.
 

Preferred:

  • Knowledge of general fabrication techniques.
  • Proficient in project, workflow, and document tracking software such as JIRA and Confluence.  
  • Experience with maintenance management systems, tools, software, and process development
  • Knowledge of GD&T Concepts and Methodology.
  • Experience with process control, thermal control, HVAC, and compressed air systems and equipment including pumps, piping, valves, transmitters, air handling units, chillers, and compressors.
  • Familiarity with advanced manufacturing operations including CNC machining and programing
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
  • Frequent need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
  • Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
  • Frequent need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
  • Frequently moves technology equipment weighing up to 20 pounds throughout office locations.
  • Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
  • Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.
  • Some travel may be necessary to and from our locations based in Boulder and Maui
  • Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)
Salary Range:
  • Mechanical Engineer III – $113,000 - $137,500
  • Mechanical Engineer II - $96,000 - $115,500

 The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/ 

How to Apply

Apply by April 20, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname. 

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here

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