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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Washington

AEVEX

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Washington, DC

$118K - $156K/yr

Leads engineering teams, manages project timelines, ensures compliance with industry standards ... associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies ...

Stantec

Mechanical Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$107K - $155K/yr

You will assist in evaluating, selecting, specifying, and engineering certain Heating, Ventilating ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP preferred. Typical office environment working with computers and ...

Stantec

Mechanical Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

You will assist in evaluating, selecting, specifying, and engineering certain Heating, Ventilating ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP preferred. Typical office environment working with computers and ...

L3HHCM20

Associate, Systems Engineering

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$71K - $132K/yr

Associate, Systems Engineering Job Code: 39186 Job Location: Chantilly, VA * Perform operational ... Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related ...

L3HHCM20

Associate, Systems Engineering

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$71K - $132K/yr

Associate, Systems Engineering Job Code: 39184 Job Location: Chantilly, VA * Perform operational ... Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineering Associate JobsMechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Washington

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Washington salary details

$51.5K

$116.5K

$188.6K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Washington is $116,519.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $143,300.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,519 per year, or $56 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer (Contingent)

ARA

Indian Head, MD • On-site

$120K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

ARA is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to support the design of equipment, tooling, and equipment interfaces for energetics chemical manufacturing systems and unmanned systems (UxS) programs supporting U.S. Government customers. This role spans a broad range of mechanical design applications, from process equipment and facility integration to mobile/field hardware platforms. The ideal candidate is an expert in SolidWorks and AutoCAD, capable of taking concepts through detailed design and producing release-quality drawings for manufacturing and assembly. This position is contingent on ENR-26 award and the salary range is between $120K-$148K.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design mechanical equipment, components, and equipment-to-facility interfaces for chemical/energetic material manufacturing systems and unmanned systems hardware.
  • Develop 3D models and assemblies in SolidWorks and produce 2D drawings/layouts in AutoCAD.
  • Create manufacturing- and assembly-ready drawing packages, including GD&T per ASME Y14.5.
  • Perform structural and mechanical analysis (FEA) to validate designs for strength, fatigue, and operational loading.
  • Manage CAD data and revisions through a PDM system (e.g., SolidWorks PDM/Vault).
  • Coordinate with chemical and process engineers to align equipment design with process requirements and DoD facility standards.
  • Support design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and site visits with government customers at Indian Head, MD.
  • Generally consider hazard classification, explosive safety, and facility siting requirements when designing equipment for energetic material applications.
  • Provide informal technical mentorship to junior engineers on design practices, drafting standards, and tools.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • 8 years of relevant mechanical design experience.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in SolidWorks (modeling, assemblies, drawings) and AutoCAD.
  • Strong working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5).
  • Experience with FEA/simulation tools for mechanical design validation.
  • Experience using a PDM system for CAD data management.
  • Ability to produce drawing packages suitable for manufacturing and assembly release.
  • U.S. Citizenship required; must be eligible to obtain a security clearance.
  • Willingness to travel regularly between Arlington, VA and Indian Head, MD.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Masters in Mechanical Engineering with 6-8 years of relevant mechanical design experience.
  • PhD in Mechanical Engineering with 3-5 years of relevant mechanical design experience.
  • Experience designing equipment for chemical processing, energetics, or hazardous material manufacturing environments.
  • Familiarity with DoD facility design standards (UFC) and explosive safety requirements.
  • Experience supporting unmanned systems (UxS) hardware design.
  • Prior experience interfacing directly with government program offices or customers.

Company & Division Information
Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 2,223 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.
At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging and innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company's success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about who we are, what we do, the excellent careers and benefits we offer and explore some of our featured offices.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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