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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Minnesota

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

TN M&E Associate

Saint James, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19.75/hr

Maintenance and Engineering Associate Technician will be supporting our Maintenance Manager and the ... Use knowledge of mechanical engineering principals to support the Maintenance and Engineering ...

Smithfield Foods

TN M&E Associate

Saint James, MN · On-site

$14.25 - $19.75/hr

Maintenance and Engineering Associate Technician will be supporting our Maintenance Manager and the ... Use knowledge of mechanical engineering principals to support the Maintenance and Engineering ...

Smithfield Foods

TN M&E Associate

Saint James, MN

$14.25 - $19.75/hr

Maintenance and Engineering Associate Technician will be supporting our Maintenance Manager and the ... Core Responsibility Use knowledge of mechanical engineering principals to support the Maintenance ...

Deluxe Corporation

Mechanical Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3 years of relevant experience, OR Associate's degree in a related technical field and 5 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience, OR ...

Deluxe Corporation

Mechanical Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3 years of relevant experience, OR Associate's degree in a related technical field and 5 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience, OR ...

Deluxe

Mechanical Engineer

Saint Paul, MN

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3 years of relevant experience, OR Associate's degree in a related technical field and 5 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience, OR ...

3M

Plant Engineering Associate (899)

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$29.95/hr

Plant Engineering Associate (899) We offer: * Competitive pay starting of $29.95/hour. * Medical ... Excellent mechanical aptitude is critical, as represented by academic performance and past ...

ISG

Designer - Mechanical

Mankato, MN · On-site

$20 - $50/hr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Drafting Technology, or a related field * 1-2+ years of working experience in mechanical design within the AEC industry, preferably focused ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineering Associate JobsMechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Minnesota

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Minnesota salary details

$44.6K

$100.8K

$163.1K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Minnesota is $100,760.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $123,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,760 per year, or $48.4 per hour.
TN M&E Associate

TN M&E Associate

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Saint James, MN • On-site

$14.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.
Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!
Your Opportunity
As a Maintenance and Engineering Associate Technician, you will develop a diverse variety of engineering projects, evaluating equipment performance, troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues, and performing functionality checks and repairs on facility equipment including areas such as electrical, hydraulics, and mechanical.
Maintenance and Engineering Associate Technician will be supporting our Maintenance Manager and the Maintenance and Engineering Department Crews to perform installation, repair, evaluation, testing, and preventive maintenance of equipment used throughout the plant, facilities, utilities, and powerhouse equipment.
Core Responsibility
  • Use knowledge of mechanical engineering principals to support the Maintenance and Engineering Department diagnosing equipment breakdowns and assist in selecting appropriate methods for repairs and designing preventive engineering solutions in those areas as needed.
  • Schedule and/or coordinate the maintenance or safety procedures, equipment service, or supply of materials required to maintain machines or equipment in the optimum condition.
  • Read and interpret, engineering design drawings, blueprints, piping sketches, schematics and wiring diagrams. Evaluate deign drawings for new or change tools by measuring dimensions on the drawings and comparing them with original specifications.
  • Identify, evaluate, diagnose mechanical problems to determine corrective action needed, reporting conclusions to Maintenance Manager; propose changes to equipment to improve production efficiency, ensure machines run safely, and prevent future interruptions. Analyze engineering drawings, repair manuals, or parts catalogs, as necessary.
  • Set up and conduct tests of complete units and their components and record results. Compare results with design specifications and with test objectives and make recommendations for changes in products or test methods.
  • Install heat units, power units, cogeneration equipment, or trigeneration equipment that reduces energy use or pollution.
  • Plan, produce, and assemble new or changed mechanical parts for products, such as industrial machinery, equipment, and units.
  • In resolving mechanical and electrical issues, use tools raging from common hand and power tools to precision measuring and electrical and electronic testing devices.
  • Effectively communicate complex mechanical and electrical issues to Maintenance Manager and peers. Establish and maintain effective and professional interaction with other departments as well.
  • Ensure all assign daily PM's are completed.
  • Analyze problems and develop and implement solutions using mechanical, electrical, and software designs, equipment, and processes for maintenance systems, processes and documentation associated with efficient and High Performing Manufacturing Organizations (Prevention and Predictive Maintenance, TPM, SOP's, Safety, etc.).
  • Visually inspects and tests machinery and equipment
  • Ensure production lines are in good mechanical order.
  • Provides aid and technical support to other teams (Production, Quality- when needed).
  • Always follows Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's) and Safety Practices.
  • Follow all ISO 14001 procedures

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college/university, in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, Industrial Maintenance Engineering, or related field, required.
  • 1+ years of related experience and/or training in an industrial mechanical maintenance or food manufacturing environment; or direct experience in an industrial mechanical maintenance or food manufacturing maintenance
  • Must have the ability to read and interpret documents, such as blueprints, safety rules, operating and maintenance manuals, and procedure manuals.
  • Must possess a high level of professionalism, discretion, and ability to self-manage his/her time from remote locations.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Proficient in Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
  • Travel up to 15-25% of time. Periodic overnight travel required.
  • Currently authorized to work in the U.S. (Sponsorship available if needed)
  • Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
  • Ability to operate a forklift, genie lift, scissor lift and/or other power industrial truck (PIT)
  • May be required to work long hours and weekends.
  • Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.
  • Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Relocation Package AvailableYes
EEO Information
Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.
Check out this video to learn more about this role!

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