1

Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$47K

$106.4K

$172.1K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Silver Spring, MD is $106,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,300.00 and $130,800.00 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 Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

AEVEX

Washington, DC

$118K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Work Arrangement

This is an onsite position in Tampa, FL, Huntsville , or Northern, VA.

Job Overview

The Sr. Mechanical Engineer designs, develops, and oversees mechanical systems and components for various projects. Leads engineering teams, manages project timelines, ensures compliance with industry standards, performs technical analysis, and collaborates with cross-functional departments to deliver efficient and reliable mechanical solutions.

Essential Functions

  • Investigates, analyzes, plans, designs, develops, implements, tests, to evaluate military weapons systems
  • Reviews and prepares engineering and technical analyses, reports, change proposals, and other technical documentation
  • Perform system integration, configuration management, quality assurance testing, or acquisition and resource management
  • Analyzes designs, develops, implements, tests, or evaluates software, components, or systems related to engineering or functional requirements of military weapons systems, associated support systems, or Leads the execution of complex tasks
  • Analyzes designs, develops, implements, tests, or evaluates software related to engineering or functional requirements of military weapons systems and associated support systems.
  • Reviews and prepares engineering and technical analyses, reports, change proposals, and other technical documentation
  • Own mass properties (weight, CG, inertia) and manage configuration trade-offs to meet performance targets
  • Design and support tooling, fixtures, and jigs for prototype builds, test, and low-rate production
  • Apply DFx principles (DFM, DFA, DFS, DFR) to improve manufacturability, assembly, reliability, serviceability, and cost
  • Lead design reviews and cross-functional integration efforts
  • Lead rapid prototyping (3D printing, composites, machined parts) and hands-on integration
  • Conduct tolerance analysis, basic structural trade studies, and environmental considerations
  • Lead build, integration, and flight test activities; rapidly troubleshoot mechanical issues
  • Provide mentorship to other members of the team.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned

Standard Essential Functions

  • Regular and reliable attendance on a full time basis [or in accordance with posted schedule].
  • Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
  • Embodies AEVEX's cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and company culture.

Qualifications

  • Strong ability to performs tasks with little or no guidance
  • Familiarity with 2D or 3D engineering design and manufacturing tools (e.g., AutoCAD, ProE or other)
  • Strong knowledge of engineering analysis tools (ANSYS, ProMechanica or similar)
  • Extremely Proficient with GD&T and engineering drawing standards
  • Strong knowledge of Solidworks
  • Extremely detail oriented and capable with working in a team environment

Education / Certifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or other related discipline.
  • Master's Degree Desired

Experience

  • 9+ years of mechanical engineering experience
  • DoD experience highly preferred
  • Experience in SolidWorks, SolidWorks Simulation, AutoCAD, electrical circuit design/troubleshooting, printed circuit board design, reverse engineering techniques, and Microsoft Project
  • Experience with computer-aided engineering (CAE) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties the employee is:

  • Frequently required repetitive movements of wrists, hands, and/or fingers
  • Frequently required to sit, and to reach to use computers and other office equipment

For the purpose of this summary, occasionally is used to represent up to 1/3 of the time given to the work day, frequently represents 1/3 to 2/3 of the time and constantly represents 2/3 or more of the time.

Security Clearance

  • Ability to obtain/maintain a Top Secret DoD clearance, U.S. Citizenship required.

About AEVEX

AEVEX, headquartered in Solana Beach, California, supports the U.S. national security mission and partner nation needs around the world by providing full-spectrum aviation, remote sensing, and analysis solutions. The company's capabilities include custom design and engineering; rapid prototyping; sensor integration and sustainment; aircraft modification and certification; flight test instrumentation and support; mission operations service; advanced intelligence data processing, exploitation, and dissemination solutions; and tailored hardware and software mission-system tools. AEVEX uses agile and customized approaches to rapidly define, develop, and deliver specialized solutions for airborne special mission needs for the U.S. Government, partner nations, and commercial businesses. AEVEX has major offices in California, Florida, North Carolina, Ohio, and Virginia.

AEVEX provides a full suite of comprehensive benefits, including a 401(k)-retirement plan, comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance group coverage with a portion of the premiums paid by the company, professional development funds, and an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) with counseling, legal help, child and elder care support, among other benefits for qualified employees.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

AEVEX is an Equal Opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religious creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, breast feeding and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, military and veteran status, marital status, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, physical disability, mental disability, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.