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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Indiana

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Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Indiana salary details

$43.3K

$97.9K

$158.4K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Indiana is $97,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,600.00 and $120,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineering Associate, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation tools, as well as exposure to industry standards like ASME, is often required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and convey technical concepts clearly. These capabilities ensure high-quality project outcomes and efficient integration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What are the most common challenges faced by Mechanical Engineering Associates when transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering tasks?

One of the most common challenges Mechanical Engineering Associates encounter is adapting to the pace and complexity of real-world engineering projects compared to academic assignments. In industry, projects often involve tight deadlines, multidisciplinary teams, and the need to balance technical accuracy with practical constraints like budget and manufacturability. Associates must also become proficient in using industry-standard software and tools, and learn to interpret and apply company-specific standards. Effective communication with senior engineers and other departments is essential for success in this collaborative environment.

What are Mechanical Engineering Associates?

Mechanical Engineering Associates are early-career professionals who support engineering teams in designing, testing, and improving mechanical systems and products. They typically assist with creating technical drawings, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and solving engineering problems under the supervision of senior engineers. This role is often a starting point for recent graduates in mechanical engineering, offering hands-on experience and opportunities to learn industry practices. Mechanical Engineering Associates may work in various sectors, such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or energy.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Associate vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering AssociateMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or equivalentBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting roles in design, testing, and manufacturingDesign, analysis, and project management responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, product development, and technical supportDesign firms, industrial companies, and R&D departments

The Mechanical Engineering Associate typically holds an associate's degree and performs support tasks in engineering projects, while the Mechanical Engineer has a bachelor's degree and takes on more complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles are essential in engineering teams, but the associate role is more entry-level and supportive in nature.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Technician Apprentice - OCU - Technical - 1st Shift - New Apprentice Role

Mechanical Engineering Technician Apprentice - OCU - Technical - 1st Shift - New Apprentice Role

Cummins

Columbus, IN

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Cummins rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 244 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 511 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary:

Prepares test articles for test, including initial build and final teardown. Responsible for installing instrumentation into test articles per relevant engineering standards.

As part of a formal apprenticeship training program, assists journeyman Mechanical Engineering Technicians and Associates to learn, develop and apply the
skills necessary to obtain a Department of Labor certification as a journeyman. Also independently performs work to help support area needs during work
rotations.

Key Responsibilities:

Assists in testing in accordance with established test procedures and methodology. Prepare test articles and associated fixtures, rigs, and equipment for testing. Demonstrates an understanding of the function of test equipment and the contribution of the test equipment to the validity of test results. Demonstrates knowledge of the functioning of the product under test to assess the contribution of the product to the validity of the test results. Performs test stand installation, troubleshooting and setups and the upkeep and maintenance of laboratory equipment. Performs other duties as required.

Learns to independently conduct performance and reliability testing of engines, components, systems, and controls; learns to independently perform diagnosis
of engines, components, systems, controls, and test cell problems and initiates appropriate resolutions.
Learns to independently configure and operates data acquisition systems, and to complete data analysis and reviews; learns to independently interpret results
and makes necessary adjustments; learns to document, define data collected, and maintain electronic files.
Learns to independently perform rig, engine and component builds, tear downs, and inspections.
Learns to independently grade and measure components.
Learns to independently create machining sketches, and fabricate necessary piping, tubing, and brackets from prints and drawings.
Learns to independently install engines and instrumentation of engines and components in test cells and test rigs.
Learns to design and document test plans; provides input during the creation of test plans; drafts test reports to include findings, conclusions and
recommendations for review by Technicians, Associates, or Engineers.
Attends classes and training programs and makes appropriate progress necessary to build basic skills and knowledge required to pass Department of Labor
certification examinations.
Conducts work independently in the areas described above after sufficient training.
Assists technicians and engineers as required.
Learns and applies appropriate Company and department rules and guidelines to work.
Participates in the maintenance of quality procedures.
Participates in improvement projects.
Maintains cleanliness within the workplace.
Learns and complies with departmental safety policies and procedures.
Demonstrates confidentiality as required.
Participates in self- and team-audits and associated corrective action.
Performs other miscellaneous duties, as required, to get the job done.

Cummins is an equal opportunity employer. Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity, or other status protected by law.

Maintain Apprenticeship training records

Successfully complete required Apprenticeship courses and training

Maintain a record in good standing within the Apprenticeship Program

Complete all mandatory training by required deadlines

This is a Mechanical Engineering Technician Apprenticeship role requiring enrollment in the MET Apprenticeship Program

Rotational Shift as required for OJT (On the Job Training)

Competencies:
Health and Safety Fundamentals - Champions and models proactive health and safety behaviors by identifying, reporting and participating in actions to improve health and safety in order to build an interdependent culture and contribute to an injury-free workplace.
Action oriented - Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
Communicates effectively - Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.
Manages complexity - Making sense of complex, high quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems.
Decision quality - Making good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward.
Drives results - Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances.
Data Acquisition - Prepares samples, verifies equipment calibration and performs tests according to an approved standard procedure or work instruction in a manner which ensures, and results in, data that can be trusted and delivered to the engineer or customer.
Data Reporting - Prepares documentation in a manner which clearly organizes and presents testing methods, instrument settings, the data and analysis to allow the engineer and customer to understand the results and form accurate conclusions and recommendations.
Product Function Test System Design - Interprets test equipment specifications from test standards or lab customer requirements; selects and integrates appropriate equipment, instrumentation and software to control boundary conditions and collect measurement data; assesses capability of the lab equipment against the requirements and support infrastructure.
Test Setup and Configuration - Interprets test plan to determine optimal location and orientation within a test space in accordance with local safety and environmental requirements and fabricates required system with appropriate materials.
Test Article Build - Assembles test articles according to test requirements, including all necessary installation or accommodations for instrumentation, in a manner that allows the test articles to successfully undergo product functional test.
Preventative and Predictive Maintenance - Interprets machine and tool maintenance records and data to develop and execute preventative and predictive management strategies to drive continuous improvement within the manufacturing process.
Data Quality - Identifies, understands and corrects flaws in data that supports effective information governance across operational business processes and decision making.
Problem Solving - Solves problems and may mentor others on effective problem solving by using a systematic analysis process by leveraging industry standard methodologies to create problem traceability and protect the customer; determines the assignable cause; implements robust, data-based solutions; identifies the systemic root causes and ensures actions to prevent problem reoccurrence are implemented.
Values differences - Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization.
Education, Licenses, Certifications:

High school diploma, GED or equivalent required.
Must meet the minimum educational requirements to be "Program Ready" to start the apprenticeship program.
Registration in a certified apprenticeship learning program required (for example, a Department of Labor certified program).

STEM Testing Requirements for new apprentices

Requires some work experience and intermediate level knowledge obtained through training or on-the-job experience.

Applicants must be program ready at the time of application submission to be considered. Program readiness can be proven by:

1. Providing a college transcript proving a passing grade in a pre-requisite math course, making the applicant ready to enroll inIvy Tech MATH 136.

2. Completing the Knowledge Assessment (STEM path) through Ivy Tech and providing a screenshot of apassing score of 70 or more.

Submit your proof of program readiness tomichelle.gilley@cummins.com

To complete the Knowledge Assessment:

1. Apply to Ivy Tech at ivytech.edu as courses only, if asked.

2. Receive acceptance and instructions to set up your account via email.

3. Setup your MyIvy account and click the link labeled "Knowledge Assessment."

4. Select STEM Math. If this option is not on your screen, click "enter a key to join private goals" and enter "STEM." If prompted for a key at any point once you have access to this assessment, enter "STEM."

5. Complete the initial assessment. If you do not earn a score of 70 or more, complete the remediation with the EdReady system. By completing the remediation, you will reach the target score.

6. Submit a screenshot of your final score to prove program readiness.
Experience:
Requires some work experience and intermediate level knowledge obtained through education, training or on-the-job experience.


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About Cummins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cummins Inc., headquartered in Columbus, IN, US, is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes numerous power products and systems. With its genesis from as early as 1919, the company readily serves diverse industries such as transportation, industrial, generator drive, or marine applications, among others. At the heart of Cummins' operations, its key product lineup encompasses diesel & natural gas engines, generator sets, engine components, and filtration, emission solutions, and electrical power generation systems. Cummins deeply embodies core values of integrity, respect for diversity, teamwork, performance excellence, and social responsibility - all of which dynamically fuel their mission 'Making people's lives better by powering a more prosperous world'.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, IN, US

Year founded

1919