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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Sparta, TN

Buyer Planner

Rock Island, TN · On-site

$60 - $86/hr

... mechanical pipe joining solutions, delivering advanced technologies and engineering services to ... Associate's degree (2-year)Minimum 1-2 years of experience in Purchasing, Material Control, or ...

Maintenance Manager

Sparta, TN · On-site

$72 - $88/hr

Strong knowledge of engineering concepts, including electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems ... Have an advanced degree (associates or higher) in a technical field with at least five years of ...

Strong knowledge of engineering concepts, including electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems ... Have an advanced degree (associates or higher) in a technical field with at least five years of ...

Strong knowledge of engineering concepts, including electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical systems ... Have an advanced degree (associates or higher) in a technical field with at least five years of ...

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Sparta, TN salary details

$37.3K

$84.3K

$136.5K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Sparta, TN is $84,315.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,800.00 and $103,700.00 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 Sparta, TN?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Sparta, TN are:

What cities near Sparta, TN are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs?

Cities near Sparta, TN with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in Sparta, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,315 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Student Associates Quality & Manufacturing Engineering (Part-Time)

Wilson Sporting Goods Co.

Sparta, TN • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago


Wilson Sporting Goods rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 62 rated fashion and textile manufacturers


Job description

At Wilson, we are here to empower every human to live like an athlete. Passion. Creativity. Integrity. Teamwork. Ambition. Innovation. These are the qualities that have made Wilson Sporting Goods Co. the number one sports equipment brand in the world. We come together to win, grow, and celebrate. We all play for Team Wilson. We all have a role to play within our organization and are working towards the same goal. One team, one dream.

We believe that being an athlete isn’t something you do, it’s who you are. It’s a universal code of conduct, a way of seeing the world and how you show up every day. We seek out diverse voices and welcome all perspectives. Our team is composed of individuals with unique backgrounds, points of view and experiences. These perspectives create a rich and diverse culture in which we learn from one another through empathy and inclusion.

Evolving the sports world and being the best partner for players, athletes, and our community is no small task. We are continually looking to add enthusiastic, ambitious, team-first individuals who desire to make a difference —and who love to help others win. Together, we will create a better world through sport. Join us.


We are currently seeking Student Associates to support both Quality and Manufacturing Engineering functions at our Sparta, TN facility. This role offers hands-on experience in process improvement, data analysis, and production support, providing exposure to multiple departments and real-world applications of engineering and quality principles.

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Quality & Data Analytics

  • Analyze internal scrap and external return data to identify trends and root causes.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions and improve product quality.
  • Investigate defects in stock and sublimation products and support resolution efforts.
  • Assist in validating incoming materials through lab testing (e.g., abrasion, wash tests).
  • Support color measurement and tolerance analysis for uniform and clothing standards.

Manufacturing & Lean Engineering

  • Document standard work processes and assist in developing formal training programs.
  • Conduct time studies to identify value-added and non-value-added tasks.
  • Use time study data to help build labor standards and efficiency metrics.
  • Learn and apply Lean tools such as 5S, PDCA, Kaizen, and Poka Yoke.
  • Assist in designing work cell layouts using CAD software, ensuring alignment with plant standards.

Instruction & Process Development

  • Collaborate with process owners to create job instructions that support consistent, high-quality production.
  • Review, revise, or create placement standards and guides for new items and processes.

The ideal candidate is currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, or a related area.

Other qualifications include:

  • Currently enrolled in a degree program in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or a related field.
  • Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking.
  • Comfortable working with data, software tools (Excel, CAD), and cross-functional teams.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple tasks independently.
  • Ability to read a tape measure to 1/8th inch.
Perks:
The starting pay for this role is $17/hour at the time of this posting. 
  • Educational assistance – work part-time and earn up to $4,500 per year to pay for your tuition (eligibility defined by Company Policy)
  • Paid company holidays (according to Company Policy)
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Discounts on Wilson and Amer Sports products

Amer Sports is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristics.


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