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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Tennessee

Electrical Estimator

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

JR106002Whether you're a recent grad or a seasoned professional, you can experience meaningful ... Read and interpret engineering design drawings, specifications, and front-end documents* Identify ...

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... recent graduates, offering hands-on training and development in extrusion processes, safety ... QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, or ...

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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad information

What does a mechanical engineer recent grad do?

A Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems or products. They typically work on tasks such as creating technical drawings, running simulations, conducting experiments, and supporting senior engineers in project work. Recent grads often work in industries like automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, or energy, gaining hands-on experience and building their engineering skills. They also collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, learn industry standards, and may help troubleshoot mechanical problems. This role serves as a foundation for professional growth and prepares them for more advanced engineering responsibilities.

What types of projects can a recent graduate in mechanical engineering expect to work on during their first year?

As a recent graduate, you can expect to be involved in a variety of entry-level projects such as assisting with product design, performing basic calculations and simulations, supporting prototype development, and preparing technical documentation. You'll often collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional teams—including manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement—to gain exposure to different aspects of the engineering process. This hands-on experience is designed to build your technical skills, familiarize you with industry standards, and prepare you for more complex responsibilities as you advance.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in mathematics, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD, and experience with simulation tools like ANSYS, are typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help distinguish you in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills and qualities are vital to successfully design, analyze, and implement engineering solutions that meet project and industry requirements.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineer Recent GradMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internship experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, some design coursework
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, manufacturing or R&D settingsDesign-focused tasks, CAD software, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, energy sectorsProduct design firms, engineering consultancies, industrial equipment

The main difference between a Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad and a Mechanical Design Engineer lies in their experience and focus. Recent grads are just starting their careers with foundational skills, while Mechanical Design Engineers typically have some experience in design processes and software. Both roles often overlap in industry and credentials, but the Design Engineer role emphasizes design-specific tasks and software proficiency.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Electrical Engineer III

Astec Industries

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design and develop electrical control panels and systems for heavy off-road construction equipment.

  • Create and maintain electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using EPLAN Electric P8, and produce accurate documentation.

  • Select electrical components, develop bill of materials, and support manufacturing during production by clarifying design intent and resolving build issues.


Astec rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Description
BUILT TO CONNECT Astec is a global, environmentally focused infrastructure and manufacturing company specializing in asphalt road building and aggregate processing equipment. Our mission is to design and build the most innovative products for the industries we serve. Our Controls Engineering team is at the heart of that mission - developing the electrical systems that power our machines around the world.
ABOUT THE POSITION We are looking for a motivated, detail-oriented Electrical Engineer to join our Controls team. In this role, you will design and develop electrical control panels and systems for heavy off-road construction equipment. You will work within an established engineering team, learning our products and processes while contributing to real, production-level designs from day one. Recent graduates with a four-year Electrical Engineering degree are strongly encouraged to apply.
Key Deliverables
Design clear, efficient, and repeatable electrical schematics using EPLAN Electric P8
Develop panel layout drawings and produce accurate, build-ready documentation packages
Select and specify electrical components (breakers, relays, PLCs, terminal blocks, wiring, etc.) to meet design requirements
Continuously improve existing schematic standards and panel design processes for consistency and manufacturability
Deliver accurate documentation and design files on schedule
Key Activities & Responsibilities
Use EPLAN Electric P8 to create and maintain electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams from concept through production release
Design electrical control panels for 24VDC & 120VAC for industrial applications, including component selection, enclosure layout, and thermal management
Develop and maintain bill of materials (BOM) and part specifications in coordination with the Purchasing Department and approved suppliers
Work closely with the Controls, Mechanical, and Manufacturing teams to ensure designs are practical, cost-effective, and repeatable on the shop floor
Support Manufacturing during production by clarifying design intent and resolving build issues
Participate in design reviews and contribute to the development of internal schematic and documentation standards
Assist the Service Department in diagnosing and resolving field and warranty issues related to electrical systems
Stay current with Astec product lines and relevant industry standards (e.g., UL, NFPA 79, IEC)
Document work thoroughly and maintain organized project files
Follow all company safety policies and procedures at all times
Perform other duties as assigned
To Be Successful in This Role
Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical/Electronic Technology required
0-2 years of experience; recent graduates are encouraged to apply
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite required
Experience with or exposure to EPLAN Electric P8 preferred
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and engineering drawings
Familiarity with 24VDC & 120VAC control circuits and panel wiring practices a plus
Experience with PLC programming & hands on troubleshooting is a plus
Strong attention to detail and a desire to build clean, well-organized, repeatable work products
Good communicator, able to work across engineering, manufacturing, and purchasing teams
Our Culture and Values Employees who become part of Astec embody the following values throughout their work:
Continuous devotion to meeting the needs of our customers
Honesty and integrity in all aspects of business
Respect for all individuals
Preserving entrepreneurial spirit and innovation
Safety, quality, and productivity as means to ensure success
Work Environment This role operates in both an office and a shop manufacturing environment. Shop exposure includes moving mechanical parts, machinery, electrical equipment, and varying temperatures and noise levels. Hearing protection and other personal protective equipment may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Equal Opportunity Employer As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Astec does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law or executive order.

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