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Mechanical Engineering Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are searching for an experienced Mechanical Engineering Designer to join our Mechanical and Electrical Design Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. This ...

We are seeking a Mechanical Designer who will work with members of the engineering team in order to develop engineering design solutions appropriate to the context, budget, and aesthetic requirements ...

We are seeking a Mechanical Designer who will work with members of the engineering team in order to develop engineering design solutions appropriate to the context, budget, and aesthetic requirements ...

$100 - $125/hr

Senior Mechanical Engineering Designer Full Time Professional Bellevue, WA, US Salary Range: $40.00 To $58.00 Hourly At Core States Group, the work you do matters to the clients we serve, the ...

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Mechanical Engineering Designer information

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How much do mechanical engineering designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanical engineering designer in the United States is $35.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $41.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mechanical engineering designer do?

A Mechanical Engineering Designer is responsible for creating technical drawings, models, and specifications for mechanical systems and components. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to convert engineering concepts into detailed plans that manufacturers and engineers use to build products. Their work often involves collaborating with engineers, analyzing design requirements, selecting appropriate materials, and ensuring designs meet safety and performance standards. Mechanical Engineering Designers play a crucial role in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineering designer?

To excel as a Mechanical Engineering Designer, you need a strong background in mechanical design principles, engineering mathematics, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), familiarity with simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards are essential. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration skills help you innovate and communicate effectively within project teams. These competencies ensure the creation of efficient, reliable, and manufacturable mechanical solutions that meet client and project requirements.

How does a mechanical engineering designer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Mechanical Engineering Designers frequently work closely with cross-functional teams, such as electrical engineers, manufacturing specialists, and project managers, to ensure that designs meet both technical specifications and practical manufacturing requirements. Communication is key, as they must often incorporate feedback from these teams to optimize product functionality and feasibility. Regular meetings and design reviews are common, allowing designers to align their work with overall project goals and timelines. This collaborative environment helps ensure that the final product is both innovative and manufacturable within budget and schedule constraints.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Designer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering DesignerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or DesignBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD workstationsDesign, analysis, testing in labs or on-site
ResponsibilitiesCreating detailed designs, CAD models, drawingsDesign development, analysis, project management

Mechanical Engineering Designers focus on creating detailed CAD models and drawings based on specifications, often working closely with Mechanical Engineers who handle analysis and overall project design. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Mechanical Engineers typically have broader responsibilities including analysis and project oversight, whereas Designers specialize in detailed design work.

More about Mechanical Engineering Designer jobs

What cities are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Designer jobs?

Cities with the most Mechanical Engineering Designer job openings:

What states have the most Mechanical Engineering Designer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mechanical Engineering Designer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Designer jobs?

For Mechanical Engineering Designer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,480 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Designer

State College, PA • On-site

Penn State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA, but options may exist for project-dependent ability of hybrid work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. We are searching for an experienced Mechanical Engineering Designer to join our Mechanical and Electrical Design Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. This Department works in collaboration with ARL Research Offices to provide high-quality drafting and 3-D modeling in support of ARL’s mission. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

  • Provide mechanical design support for research engineering programs, collaborating closely with R&D Engineers and Engineering Support teams
  • Create intermediate 3D solid models for fabricated parts, assemblies, and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) parts following accepted standards, methods, and techniques
  • Create 2D detail drawings and schematic/bills of material (BOM) documents for intermediate fabrication of parts/assemblies using accepted standards, methods, and techniques
  • Resolve issues related to design, material, and components
  • Perform Service Center functions including documentation control, copying, archiving (.stp and .x_t), and database entry
  • Provide work status updates to senior staff and engineers; participate in meetings and design reviews
  • Utilize ARL’s Project Lifecycle Management (PLM) software (Teamcenter) to perform configuration management and archive all design documentation
  • Keep up to date on all required compliance training related to business systems, safety, and security
  • Build and strengthen your knowledge of design software features, techniques, standards, and specifications (particularly American Society of Mechanical Engineers/ASME Y14.5)
REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Required skills/experience areas include:

  • Mechanical systems and components
  • Layout and design process, using CAD software for component creation
  • Creation of 2D detail drawings for fabrication parts and assemblies
  • Creation of 3D parametric solid models which are fully constrained
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
  • Siemens NX CAD
  • Siemens Teamcenter PLM tool
  • Certified in or familiar with ASME Y14.5
  • Microsoft Office, including Adobe

Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required.

Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA, but options may exist for project-dependent ability of hybrid work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

If filled as Engineering Designer, Mechanical (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires: Associate Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None

If filled as Engineering Designer, Mechanical (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Associate Degree 4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None

ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL): Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $68,604.00 - $113,100.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines

There’s a reason Penn State consistently ranks among the top one percent of the world’s universities. Across 24 campuses, our 100,000 students and 40,000 faculty and staff know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom – it’s the positive impact made on communities across the world. Our ideals stem from our origins as Pennsylvania’s sole land-grant institution, which allow us to continue to bring positive impact to humanity through our teaching, research, and engagement mission. And across the world is a community of Penn Staters – more than half a million strong – driven by that same spirit to serve our local and global communities. At Penn State, passion is met with collaboration in an environment that is rooted in shared pride for the accomplishments of our fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Penn Staters cheer each other on to build a culture committed to service and engagement. Our University values represent our core ethical aspirations for all our daily activities and actions as students, faculty, staff, and volunteers at Penn State. Our values are as follows; Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community. We Are Penn State. One Community. Impacting Many.

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