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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Associate (R&D / Laboratory) Role Overview We are seeking a motivated Engineering ... This role is ideal for a hands-on individual with a strong background in electrical or mechanical ...

Engineering Associate

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

Engineering Associate Location(s): West Chicago, IL, US, 60185 Colfax, NC, US, 27235 Function ... Key Responsibilities * Assist in mechanical design and engineering deliverables for exterior door ...

Engineering Associate

Colfax, NC · On-site

$57K - $74K/yr

Engineering Associate Location(s): Colfax, NC, US, 27235 West Chicago, IL, US, 60185 Function ... Key Responsibilities * Assist in mechanical design and engineering deliverables for exterior door ...

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Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 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 cities are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? Cities with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Mechanical Associate I

$76K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Michael Baker International rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 368 rated engineering


Job description

Mechanical Engineering Associate

Location: Austin, TX

Who We Are:

At Michael Baker International, we partner with clients to solve complex infrastructure and build challenges that shape communities across the country. Our Building Engineering team delivers innovative, sustainable, and high-performing facility solutions through collaboration, technical excellence, and a commitment to quality.

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineering Associate to join our Austin, Texas office. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer to develop technical expertise in HVAC and plumbing system design while working alongside experienced professionals in a highly collaborative environment. Because success in this role is driven by mentorship, team collaboration, and hands-on learning, regular in-office attendance is required.

What You'll Do:

As a Mechanical Engineering Associate, you will support senior engineering staff in the planning, design, and analysis of building mechanical systems. Responsibilities include:

  • Utilize engineering and design software, including Revit, to develop project deliverables.
  • Assist with energy modeling, including Trane Trace model setup and building load calculations.
  • Prepare preliminary layouts for HVAC ductwork and plumbing piping systems.
  • Perform calculations and support equipment selection for fans, pumps, air handling units, and other mechanical systems.
  • Review and summarize contractor submittals and Requests for Information (RFIs) for engineering review.
  • Assist with LEED documentation, including data entry and tracking sustainability-related information.
  • Prepare and maintain project documentation, spreadsheets, and support calculations.
  • Participate in project coordination meetings and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Travel occasionally in support of project needs.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

What You Need to Succeed:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 0-2 years of relevant engineering experience.
  • Strong interest in building mechanical systems, including HVAC and plumbing design.
  • Experience with or exposure to Revit and 3D modeling tools preferred.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
  • Familiarity with Bluebeam or other PDF markup software preferred.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, or the ability to obtain it within six months of hire, preferred.

Compensation:

The approximate compensation range for this position is $76,704.00 - 100,697.00.  This compensation range is a good faith estimate at the time of posting. Actual compensation will vary based on factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and geographic location.

Why Choose Us

Michael Baker International offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and professional growth of our employees, including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • Company-Paid Life and Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Professional Development and Training Opportunities
  • Career Growth and Advancement Potential
Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world's most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.
Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.
We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.
We Make a Difference.

Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.
EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.

*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.

DESIGN-BUILD PRACTICE


With the rapid growth of the design-build sector in the building industry, Michael Baker is committed to pursuing innovative and collaborative alternative delivery projects and identifying solutions that efficiently address client needs. Whether public or private, vertical or horizontal, large or small, our experts collaborate with contractors and owners to provide design solutions tailored to each individual project. 

Our focus on effective design management and continuous collaboration with design-builders ensure that quality and value are built into every step of the project. We are involved from start to finish, adding value and efficiency to the construction process to accelerate project completion and achieve cost savings.


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