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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Washington

ARA

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Indian Head, MD · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

We are actively searching for a Mechanical Engineer to join our team. The Senior Engineer will ... Applied Research Associates, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned international research and engineering ...

VHC Health

Director Facilities Engineering

Arlington, VA · On-site

$123K - $234K/yr

Associate's degree in mechanical engineering is preferred, or Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is preferred. Experience: Three years management experience is required. Five years of ...

VHC Health

Director Facilities Engineering

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K/yr

Associate's degree in mechanical engineering is preferred, or Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is preferred. Experience: Three years management experience is required. Five years of ...

VHC Health

Director Facilities Engineering

Arlington, VA · On-site

$123K - $234K/yr

Associate's degree in mechanical engineering is preferred, or Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is preferred. Experience: Three years management experience is required. Five years of ...

Arete Associates

Mechanical Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

Passion for national security and excellence Experiences and Background We Look For (Required Skills): * BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or equivalent * Experience with CAD ...

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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 10, 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

ARA

Indian Head, MD • On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

ARA's team solves problems related to national defense and security. We are actively searching for a Mechanical Engineer to join our team. The Senior Engineer will review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for compliance and provide oversight of the validation of said SOPs. Perform Hazards Analysis for various processes which includes identification and mitigation of hazards. Review and provide feedback on Process Safety Management submittals documentation. Review and provide feedback on tooling and accompanying drawings. Provide technical support and advice to additional processes.
Work Environment Details: The duties of this role must be performed entirely onsite within a high-activity environment that features standard industrial/office lighting and ambient noise. Because continuous proximity to the team and operations is an essential function of the position, certain workspace modifications-such as isolating the worker in a quiet, dimly lit, or entirely private office-cannot be accommodated while fulfilling the core responsibilities of this role.
Employment is contingent upon the successful attainment of at least an Interim Secret clearance, granted by the sponsoring agency.
Due to the nature of this work, candidates for this position must be US citizens residing within the US. This position is located at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head and will require you to be onsite. This position does not allow for a remote or hybrid work schedule.
Requirements of a Mechanical Engineer
    • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related scientific field with 8-10 years of related work experience, or a Master's with 6-8 years of experience.
    • U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain a security clearance.
    • Proven proficiency in a range of analytical and technical skills for the synthesis, monitoring, and scaling of energetic materials.
    • Demonstrated experience managing multiple, complex projects, including the integration and coordination of diverse stakeholders such as government agencies, contractors, and vendors.
    • Experience with process safety and material handling ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
    • Excellent leadership and coordination skills, with a track record of leading and mentoring multi-disciplinary engineering teams across multiple project phases.
    • Ability to work effectively in high-pressure, dynamic environments, managing rapid changes in program scope, funding, and priorities.
    • Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to tailor presentations and reports to diverse technical and non-technical audiences.
    • Ability to undergo and pass a Department of Transportation compliant medical physical exam.
    • Ability to undergo and pass a drug screening.

Responsibilities of a Mechanical Engineer
    • Provide leadership for the safe and cost-effective execution of manufacturing capabilities in complex production environments, in collaboration with federal defense clients.
    • Acquire in-depth understanding of design requirements for process and facility design to install new manufacturing processes.
    • Apply analytical techniques to support process development, troubleshooting, and optimization. Assist in development test plans to validate to support proof on concept designs.
    • Oversee the proper execution of projects, including detailed planning, scheduling, and procurement aligned with customer specifications. Collaborate closely with program management counterparts to develop comprehensive plans for technical deliverables and schedules.
    • Collaborate with equipment vendors and subcontractors, clearly communicating design, fabrication, and testing requirements for process equipment.
    • In partnership with project managers, develop, plan, and execute goals that align with client objectives and ensure timely, quality deliverables. Participate in regular client facing meetings to updated progress and facilitate technical discussion.
    • Implement and monitor safety and quality programs, ensuring all project staff adhere to contractual terms, scope of work, regulatory requirement, and client specific quality and safety standards.
    • Produce detailed process design documentation, including process flow diagrams, process narratives, equipment bills of material, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
    • Provide technical input into facility design, advising on safety standards and regulations for the design and operation of complex manufacturing process facilities.

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about who we are, what we do, the excellent careers and each of the competitive benefits we offer and explore some of our featured offices.
Anticipated Salary Range: $135,000 - $150,000
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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