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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Tennessee

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

HVAC Mechanical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$73K - $98K/yr

Associate's degree in mechanical engineering or HVAC systems Work Arrangement: * The person would need to be on site for at least a few days each week, with the possibility of some work from home ...

SPECTRA TECH INC

HVAC Mechanical Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · Hybrid

$73K - $98K/yr

Associate's degree in mechanical engineering or HVAC systems Work Arrangement: * The person would need to be on site for at least a few days each week, with the possibility of some work from home ...

LaBella Associates

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

The Building Engineering Division at LaBella provides complete building engineering services ... LaBella Associates does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiting professionals or agencies ...

LaBella Associates

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

The Building Engineering Division at LaBella provides complete building engineering services ... LaBella Associates does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiting professionals or agencies ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineering Associate JobsMechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Tennessee

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Tennessee salary details

$41.3K

$93.4K

$151.1K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Tennessee is $93,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $114,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical engineering associate?

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?

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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,374 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Associate I

Mesa Associates Inc.

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

GIG General / Generation Industrial and Government

This position is not eligible for recruiting or sourcing by outside parties.

Disclaimer: Be cautious and only respond to emails from our “mesainc.com” domain. We will never ask for sensitive information, such as bank account details, SSN, etc., via email. If you receive any communication asking for such information, it is not from Mesa. For any concerns, or to verify the authenticity of a message, please contact us through our official channels.

We’ve got the power to energize your career and spark YOUR work/life balance through professional development and exceptional benefits. Don’t delay, plug in today for an inclusive and meaningful career. Mesa Associates, Inc. is a woman/minority-owned full-service engineering, procurement, and project management firm covering power, defense, aerospace, industrial, commercial, and municipal entities. We specialize in power generation and delivery services. Our Nuclear Services Division specializes in providing high-quality engineering, procurement, design, and project management for operating and new reactor clients, and partners with our other divisions to integrate nuclear design with electrical high-voltage, substations, switchyard, transmission line, and distribution design. We have been in the top 10 of EC&M's Top 40 Electrical Design Firms since 2012. With over 1,000 associates, we are big enough to perform, but small enough to care!

What We’re Looking for

  • BS in Engineering
  • Successful passing of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is desirable for this position

What You’ll Do

  • Applies basic knowledge of engineering principles and practices to design in the area of specialty
  • Work closely with the design team and other disciplines on multi-disciplinary projects
  • Familiar with Mesa Policies and Business Unit procedures, complies with procedural requirements for document/deliverable generation
  • Performs technical and coordination checking/ review of deliverables and other project documents
  • Ensures deliverables comply with Business Unit procedures and meet applicable design requirements
  • Capable of preparing calculations using engineering formulas and skills, or application specific software
  • Manages personal task assignments and adheres to project scope, schedule, and budget on all assigned tasks
  • Assists in resolving construction issues, supporting design staff to resolve problems and concerns

What You’ll Earn

  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay – 10 Days Annually
  • Group Medical/Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance (Company Paid)
  • Disability Insurance (Company Paid)
  • 401(K) Retirement Savings plan
  • 401(K) Matching Contribution
  • Section 125/Cafeteria Plan
  • Long Term Care Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Fitness Center Reimbursement
  • Annual Performance Bonus
  • 9/80 Work Schedule Option

Notice to External Search Firms: Mesa Associates, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Mesa Associates, Inc. Talent Acquisition engages with approved search firms directly for specific hiring needs.

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