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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Springfield, MO

If you enjoy solving problems, collaborating with talented engineers, and seeing your designs come ... Associate degree in CAD/Drafting or equivalent experience. * Experience with 3D CAD software ...

If you enjoy solving problems, collaborating with talented engineers, and seeing your designs come ... Associate degree in CAD/Drafting or equivalent experience. * Experience with 3D CAD software ...

If you enjoy solving problems, collaborating with talented engineers, and seeing your designs come ... Associate degree in CAD/Drafting or equivalent experience. * Experience with 3D CAD software ...

Intern

Springfield, MO ยท On-site

$23.75 - $29.75/hr

Toth & Associates is looking for motivated, curious, and innovative engineering students who want ... Whether your focus is Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Structural, Surveying, Engineering Technology ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$41.4K

$93.6K

$151.5K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Springfield, MO is $93,581.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,100.00 and $115,100.00 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 Springfield, MO?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,581 per year, or $45 per hour.

CAD Designer - Stainless Tanks

Koch Enterprises Family of Companies

Springfield, MO โ€ข On-site

$24.50 - $34/hr

Other

PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

For 30+ years, Watson Custom Tanks has held a reputation for designing and fabricating trusted tank solutions for food, beverage and industrial processes. We highly value quality craftsmanship, innovation and, most importantly, teamwork to support our customers and create a safe, family-centric environment for our team to thrive.
Product Designer - Stainless Tanks
Watson Custom Tanks
Full-time | On-site | Monday-Friday
About the Role
Join the Engineering team at Watson Custom Tanks and help design custom stainless-steel equipment that solves complex manufacturing challenges. You'll collaborate cross-functionally with Project Managers, Sales, Quality, and Production to deliver customer-specific designs and continuously improve existing products.
What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities)
  • Design ASME pressure vessels, tanks, agitators, platforms, ladders, and related equipment using 3D CAD modeling (preferred: Autodesk Inventor)
  • Update existing production designs to meet customer specifications and internal standards
  • Create and maintain Bills of Material (BOMs), customer drawings, manufacturing drawings, and engineering documentation
  • Drive design improvements that enhance quality and reduce cost
  • Support additional engineering tasks as assigned

What You Bring (Qualifications)
  • Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering/Design (preferred) or equivalent practical experience
  • Proficiency in 3D modeling software (preferred: Autodesk Inventor)
  • Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Syteline)
  • Preferred: Experience designing ASME pressure vessels
  • 2+ years industrial mechanical engineering/design experience preferred
  • Strong collaboration and professional communication skills

Physical & Safety Requirements
  • Stand/walk for extended periods; frequent hand/arm use; talk/hear
  • Lift/move up to 50 lbs
  • Must follow safety procedures and wear required PPE (including safety glasses and steel-toe boots)

Why Join Us
  • 100% paid tuition
  • Generous paid time off (PTO)
  • Safety-first work environment
  • Career growth with a rapidly growing manufacturer

Work Location
On-site at Watson Metal Masters, 6800 Stainless Way, Springfield, MO 65802.
Apply Now
If you're a detail-driven CAD Designer with Autodesk Inventor, BOM/ERP, and custom equipment design experience-or you're ready to grow into ASME pressure vessel design-we want to hear from you.