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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Appleton, WI

Process Designer

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$75K - $130K/yr

Consistently ranked by Engineering News Record in the top 150 firms, we offer a values-based ... Creation of mechanical/process details, 2D piping plans, elevations, and isometrics from 3D models ...

Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$44.4K

$100.4K

$162.5K

How much do mechanical engineer recent grad jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer recent grad in Appleton, WI is $100,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $123,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Appleton, WI? For Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings in Appleton, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 95% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, 12% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,381 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Job description

Are you interested in joining a company that was recently certified as a "Great Place to Work" for the fifth year in a row? If so, please read on...

JOB SUMMARY:

  • Design and implement mechanical and hydraulic systems for electrical generation facilities.
  • Review and approve all design work associated with assigned projects, including design reports, schematics, and assembly drawings.
  • Mentor personnel on your area of expertise.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
  • 5 years' experience with hydraulic power units, hydraulic control manifolds and hydraulic cylinders
  • Strong conceptualization ability along with strong interpersonal, communication and organizational skills, including the ability to explain complex technical issues to decision-makers and project teams.
  • Strong leadership skills
  • Ability to travel up to 30% domestically and internationally
  • Able to perform all essential functions of the job

DESIRABLE:

  • Experience with Autodesk Inventor.
  • Familiarity with digital/hydraulic governors systems used in hydroelectric power plants.
  • Familiar with ASME, IEEE, IEC, NEC, and CSA standards applicable to the design of equipment for Power Generating Stations.
  • Hydroelectric governor functionality and theory knowledge

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Commissioning of hydraulic systems
  • Create and implement O&M / FAT / SAT standards
  • Design and implement hydraulic systems for electrical generation facilities.
  • Design cut-ins for governor retrofits hydraulic and mechanical
  • Design hydraulic drawings and hydraulic schematic diagrams
  • Design, develop, test, and start up projects as requested
  • Develop customer training documents
  • Develop descriptions of system operation
  • Ensure system engineering is complete prior to handing off work for detailed engineering and design
  • Interpret technical project specifications and mechanical drawings as required by sales and engineering project management
  • Minimize rework and warranty on all projects
  • Perform demolition and installation engineering
  • Perform design reviews
  • Perform FAT, installation supervision, SAT, customer training and system commissioning as requested
  • Perform hydraulic and mechanical calculations for system sizing and component selection
  • Perform Mechanical Design
  • Perform onsite inspections and project "kick-off" meetings as assigned
  • Perform peer reviews
  • Prepare O&M manual, factory acceptance test (FAT), installation, site acceptance test (SAT) and customer training documents
  • Provide direction to L&S Electric for services group
  • Provide governor hydraulic and mechanical conceptual system engineering
  • Provide installation and mechanical conceptual system engineering
  • Provide static and dynamic calculations
  • Support Engineering division as requested
  • Utilize electrical and hydraulic test equipment
  • Utilize L&S Electric ISO system to ensure quality products and services
  • Work effectively with all other project team members such as control, electrical, HMI and mechanical disciplines
  • Work with designers to develop drawings
  • Work with mechanical designers to develop mechanical and hydraulic drawings
  • Design machines, brackets, supports and piping for a variety of new and existing equipment

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to confidently correspond with customers via oral and written means
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment with minimal supervision
  • Able to wear personal protective equipment: hearing protection, hard hat, safety glasses, etc.
  • Be a self-starter, effectively perform duties without guidance
  • Display a positive can-do attitude
  • Excellent customer relations skills
  • Fluent in English language
  • High level organizational skills with ability to set priorities, manage multiple deadlines and work under pressure
  • Possess strong electrical and mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
  • Proficient use of personal computer, operating knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and Project
  • Shall sign L&S Electric confidentiality agreement
  • Shall work as required to complete work while simultaneously executing multiple projects
  • Strong communication skills, ability to correspond confidently with customers and project team
  • Valid driver's license, able to be insured
  • Valid passport or ability to obtain one
  • Willingness to learn new skills and approaches to dealing with problems

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Aerial work may sometimes be necessary
  • Core working hours start at 8AM unless prior approval given. Eight (8) working hours per day are required. Overtime requires prior approval
  • Environmental conditions vary from facility to facility (i.e. heat, noise)
  • Occasional lifting of heavy objects
  • Uneven or slippery walking surfaces
  • Work from assigned L&S office unless prior approval given
  • Work is performed at the customer job site, as well as at L&S Electric facilities.