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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. * Experience with foundational engineering principles related to design, manufacturing, configuration management and analysis. * Experience with ...

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. * Experience with foundational engineering principles related to design, manufacturing, configuration management and analysis. * Experience with ...

Preparing architectural, mechanical, electrical and civil drawings * Designing grading and drainage ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

Devises, fabricates, and assembles new or modified mechanical components or assemblies. * Sets up ... Associate's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering from a college or university. * Typically ...

Preparing architectural, mechanical, electrical and civil drawings * Designing grading and drainage ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

Devises, fabricates, and assembles new or modified mechanical components or assemblies. * Sets up ... Associate's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering from a college or university. * Typically ...

Senior Structural Test Engineering Lead

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$91K - $124K/yr

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a Senior Engineer or Senior Scientist to lead Energetics Effects Phenomenology Testing programs within our Hard Target Mechanics Group in ...

Senior Design Engineer 1

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$109K - $182K/yr

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA), Southwest Division (SWD) is looking for an experienced ... Must have a bachelor's degree in the field of Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or a related ...

... associate degrees, and transfers to baccalaureate programs. The University enrolls over 26,000 ... engineering; mechanical engineering; and nuclear engineering. The School benefits from robust ...

Showing results 41-60

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$42.8K

$96.8K

$156.6K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Rio Rancho, NM is $96,768.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,700.00 and $119,000.00 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 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 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 Rio Rancho, NM?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in Rio Rancho, NM 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 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,768 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

CADD Technologist

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Akima, LLC
Specialty Trade Contractors • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Create 3D models and detailed drawings for components of accelerators and pulsed power machines.

  • Partner with engineers and scientists to develop and interpret design concepts and identify requirements.

  • Collaborate with procurement, manufacturing, and suppliers to discuss design, schedule, manufacturing processes, and materials.


Akima rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

We are seeking a CADD Technologist to join our dynamic team of engineers and scientists developing groundbreaking technologies in one of our Pulsed Power Sciences Departments! Are you passionate about mechanical design and the creation and configuration management of 3D models and detailed drawings? If so, you will want to consider this opportunity to design new components applying engineering principles and processes to satisfy fit, form and function requirements in collaborative environment with engineering and design partners.
Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant must be able to work onsite 100% of the time at the Albuquerque, NM site.
Responsibilities
On any given day, you may be called on to:
  • Create 3D models and drawings to build next generation accelerators and pulsed power machines.
  • Partner with engineers and scientist in developing designs.
  • Partner with engineers to discuss and interpret design concepts and identify requirements of detailed working drawings.
  • Collaborate with procurement, manufacturing, and suppliers to discuss design, schedule, manufacturing processes and materials selections to ensure contractual agreements are understood and achievable.
  • Manage documentation in collaborative engineering environment using product data management tools along with engineering authorization and approval processes and procedures.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma plus three or more years of directly related experience in Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD), or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Proficiency in creating mechanical product design definition to include 3D solid models and mechanical drawings.
  • Proficiency with PTC/CREO, PDMLink (Windchill), and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE L security clearance.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
  • Experience with foundational engineering principles related to design, manufacturing, configuration management and analysis.
  • Experience with Model Based Design (MBD) practices.
  • Ability to work in energetic and high-performance teaming environment.
  • Must be able to independently seek definition, evaluate, analyze, and then realize mechanical designs, definitions, and products.
  • Excellent communication skills with ability to present to diverse audience.

Physical Demands:
  • If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sub-contractor you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs.
  • If you have a MedPED and you are selected for an on-site interview at Sub-contractor, there may be additional steps necessary to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements prior to the interview date.

Job ID
2026-24312
Work Type
On-Site
Company Description
Work Where it Matters
Akima Infrastructure Services (AIS), an Akima company, is not just another staffing contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.
At AIS, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.
For our shareholders, AIS provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
For our government customers, AIS supports vital missions with the most in-demand and specialized skill sets in the world.
As an AIS employee, you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

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About Akima

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an Alaska Native Corporation headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Akima is dedicated to delivering superior outcomes for our customers’ missions while simultaneously creating a long-lived asset for our Iñupiat shareholders. Akima maintains a portfolio of small businesses, 8(a) companies, and operating companies that deliver simplified and accelerated access to the products and services agencies need to ensure mission success.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

1995

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