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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Pae

Aircraft Mechanic Machinist II

Knoxville, TN

... parts of mechanical equipment. Work involves most of the following: interpreting written ... Experience with Omax water jet programming, set up, operating, and maintenance. * Familiar with ...

GEM Technologies, Inc

System Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Clearance - To be considered, you must have an active or very recently active DOE "Q" Clearance or ... Systems and equipment experience in mechanical and electrical systems. * MS Degree in Engineering.

Pae

Traveling Aircraft Electrician Mechanic II

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$24 - $31.50/hr

... engineering data, and other specifications to determine feasibility and method of repairing or ... All experience must be within the (5) five most recent years is required * If no A&P, shall have ...

Laborup

Machinist & Tool Maker Apprentice

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$22.66/hr

... mechanical aptitude, and a hunger to learn. In this role, you will focus on injection mold ... An ideal environment for recent trade school graduates (e.g., TCAT) or junior machinists looking to ...

New

Laborup

Machinist & Tool Maker Apprentice

Maryville, TN · On-site

$22.66/hr

... mechanical aptitude, and a hunger to learn. In this role, you will focus on injection mold ... An ideal environment for recent trade school graduates (e.g., TCAT) or junior machinists looking to ...

Laborup

Machinist & Tool Maker Apprentice

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$22.66/hr

... mechanical aptitude, and a hunger to learn. In this role, you will focus on injection mold ... An ideal environment for recent trade school graduates (e.g., TCAT) or junior machinists looking to ...

New

Laborup

Machinist & Tool Maker Apprentice

Maryville, TN · On-site

$22.66/hr

... mechanical aptitude, and a hunger to learn. In this role, you will focus on injection mold ... An ideal environment for recent trade school graduates (e.g., TCAT) or junior machinists looking to ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer Recent Grad JobsMechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$43.5K

$98.4K

$159.2K

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

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer recent grad in Oak Ridge, TN is $98,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,900.00 and $120,900.00 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 jobs can a mechanical engineering graduate get?

A mechanical engineering graduate can pursue roles such as mechanical engineer, design engineer, manufacturing engineer, or project engineer. These positions often require knowledge of CAD software, problem-solving skills, and understanding of materials and thermodynamics. Opportunities exist in industries like automotive, aerospace, energy, and robotics.

What can a mechanical engineer do after graduation?

A mechanical engineer recent graduate can pursue entry-level positions in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or energy, where they apply principles of physics and materials science. They may work on designing, testing, and improving mechanical systems using CAD software and may need to obtain relevant certifications or licenses for certain roles.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, often through a combination of base pay, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership or executive responsibilities.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, leadership roles, or working in high-demand industries. Senior engineers with extensive expertise, advanced certifications, and managerial responsibilities are more likely to reach this compensation level.
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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs near you
Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Strategic Management Solutions, LLC.

Oak Ridge, TN

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

SMSI provides expert management consulting, program and project management, and technical consulting services to government and private sector clients. SMSI has grown and evolved by building an outstanding reputation for client-focused performance and for delivering results that enable clients to meet commitments and milestones.
 
SMSI is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Job Summary:
SMSI, LLC is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support a large EPC project in the Oak Ridge, TN area. The selected candidate will support the design, procurement, acceptance, testing, assembly, and installation efforts.  The work will be performed in Oak Ridge, TN and require working onsite for 2-3 days per week and working remotely the other 2-3 days per week.
Responsibilities:
  • The successful candidate will support the design process as part of the component procurements, addressing design changes and evaluating impacts to the current design.
  • They will support the procurement and acceptance of items, developing and executing.
  • Acceptance Criteria Lists based on existing statements of work and technical specifications for components.
  • They will help oversee other A/E firms participating in facility design and ensure proper coordination to support overall project delivery.
Required Skills:
  • Minimum of 5-8 years of progressive experience.
  • Mechanical Design including at least a basic understanding of mechanics and thermal response of materials.
  • Able to read, understand, and apply engineering standards.
  • Can demonstrate technical writing and technical documentation abilities.
  • Basic Engineering Drawing creation, checking, and component procurement.
  • Candidate must be a self-starter and able to work independently with diverse teams.
  • Excellent verbal, presentation, and writing skills are required to enable effective interaction and communication with technical peers, program managers, collaborators, and sponsors.
  • The candidate should demonstrate a diverse background and understanding of some of the following topics:
    • Vacuum systems
    • Mechanical Design including at least a basic understanding of mechanics, fluids, controls, dynamics, and thermal response of materials.
    • Mechanical utilities design, installation, commissioning, and operations experience.
    • Procurement and installation experience.
    • ASME B31.3 experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Q clearance.
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen.
  • Candidate must be able to work onsite in Oak Ridge, TN 2-3 days per week and remotely the other 2-3 days per week.
Preferred Experience:
  • Experience in uranium enrichment or a closely related field is a plus.
  • Experience working in assembly of complex devices is highly desirable.
  • The candidate may be required to lead receipt and acceptance of components and/or component/system testing.
  • Active (or recently inactive) DOE Q clearance preferred but not required.
Educational Requirements:
  • A bachelor’s degree in engineering or related discipline from an ABET-accredited college or university.

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