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Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Springfield, MO

Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$41.4K

$93.6K

$151.5K

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

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer recent grad in Springfield, MO is $93,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,100.00 and $115,100.00 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 Springfield, MO? For Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings in Springfield, MO as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,581 per year, or $45 per hour.

Engineer III or IV - Water Systems

City Utilities of Springfield, MO

Springfield, MO • On-site

$1.8K - $2.3K/wk

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Connect to a career at City Utilities! CU has been connecting our community to the services they need for every day life since 1945. From electricity to power our lives, clean water to be healthy, natural gas to stay warm, internet to keep businesses connected, to transit services to get them where they need to go.
Pay Details:
Engineer III - (Grade 58)
Minimum: $1,618.87/ week
Midpoint: $2,023.60
Engineer IV - (Grade 59)
Minimum: $1,851.10/ week
Midpoint: $2,313.86
Work Schedule:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Job Description:
PURPOSE OF POSITION:
Engineer III or IV - Water Systems
Help plan, design, and improve the water infrastructure that delivers safe, reliable drinking water to our community. We are seeking talented engineers at multiple experience levels to join our Water Systems Planning and Engineering team. Whether you are an experienced engineer ready to take on complex capital projects and technical leadership responsibilities or a developing professional looking to expand your expertise, this opportunity offers meaningful work on critical water treatment, supply, and distribution initiatives in a collaborative and mission-driven environment.
What You'll Do
Depending on qualifications and experience, responsibilities may include:
  • Perform engineering duties in the design and operation of water treatment facilities and supply infrastructure.
  • Independently perform calculations as required to complete design efforts of water treatment & supply projects, e.g. chemical feed and dosing rates, pump sizing, system head loss analysis, pressure pipe calculations and reaction forces, pipe wall thickness design, etc.
  • Act as project manager for small and moderate sized maintenance contracts and capital improvement projects.
  • Prepare and approve required construction drawings for moderate capital improvement projects.
  • Prepare and review cost estimates and material lists for projects as required.

What We're Looking For:
Engineer III:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering. (ABET accredited required; Mechanical, Civil, or Environmental preferred).
  • Minimum four years' recent water treatment or water supply engineering experience is required. Experience in applicable engineering may be considered.
  • Construction drawings-AutoCAD experience is required.

Engineer IV:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering. (ABET accredited required; Mechanical, Civil, or Environmental preferred).
  • Minimum eight years' recent engineering experience in a water treatment or water supply related field is required. Experience in applicable engineering may be considered.
  • Construction drawings-AutoCAD experience is required.

Preferred Skills
  • Possesses and applies a broad knowledge of engineering practices and be able to successfully complete major portions of work associated with water treatment and supply projects and operations.
  • Preference may be given to mechanical or civil disciplines depending on existing departmental needs.
  • Work courteously with customers, co-workers, and individuals in other departments.

Why Join Us?
  • Work on projects that directly impact the safety and reliability of essential community services.
  • Collaborate with experienced utility professionals in a supportive team environment.
  • Lead meaningful infrastructure improvements and long-term system planning efforts.
  • Build your career through challenging technical work, project leadership, and professional growth opportunities.

Working Conditions:
Normal office environment. May require occasional late hours and weekend work.
Additional Information:
  • Missouri P.E. license required.
  • A minimum Class C Missouri DNR Drinking Water Operator's license or obtain one within 12 months of hire.
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • Candidates must be able to work effectively with diverse groups and adapt to evolving technologies and systems.
  • Employee must remain alert and aware of their surroundings at all times and maintain the ability to respond to changing circumstances in a timely manner.

For a complete job description, please contact the Recruitment Office at (417) 831-8460.
TESTING
Testing may be required.
EEO
City Utilities offers equal employment opportunities to individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, genetic information or marital status. Learn more about CU and EEO.