1

Mechanical Engineering Trainee Jobs in Rhode Island

Nordson EFD , a global leader in Engineered Fluid Dispensing, is seeking an experienced and highly ... JOB SUMMARY The Level 1 Process Technician is an entry-level trainee role responsible for learning ...

Nordson EFD , a global leader in Engineered Fluid Dispensing, is seeking an experienced and highly ... Work with trainee, as required ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES * Start up molds that have been ...

Mechanical Engineering Trainee information

See Rhode Island salary details

$44.6K

$100.8K

$163.1K

How much do mechanical engineering trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering trainee in Rhode Island is $100,750.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $123,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical engineering trainee?

Mechanical Engineering Trainees are entry-level professionals or recent graduates who work under the supervision of experienced engineers to learn practical skills and gain hands-on experience in the field of mechanical engineering. Their responsibilities may include assisting with design, analysis, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems or products. The trainee period helps them understand industry standards, tools, and workflows, preparing them for more advanced engineering roles in the future.

What types of projects and tasks can a mechanical engineering trainee expect to work on during their first year?

As a Mechanical Engineering Trainee, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and design-oriented projects under the guidance of experienced engineers. Typical tasks include assisting with CAD modeling, performing basic calculations, supporting prototype development, and helping with testing and data collection. You may also participate in team meetings, collaborate with other departments like manufacturing or quality assurance, and contribute to process improvement initiatives. These experiences are designed to build your technical skills and provide exposure to the full product development lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineering trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineering Trainee, a solid grasp of engineering fundamentals, mathematics, and problem-solving abilities is essential, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (like SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help trainees effectively collaborate and learn from experienced engineers. These skills are crucial for successfully contributing to projects, addressing technical challenges, and developing into a competent mechanical engineer.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Trainee vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering TraineeMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in mechanical engineeringBachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level position, often in manufacturing or design firmsDesign departments, engineering firms, or manufacturing companies
Job FocusLearning, assisting, and gaining practical experience in mechanical systemsCreating, analyzing, and improving mechanical designs and components

The main difference is that a Mechanical Engineering Trainee is an entry-level role focused on learning and gaining experience, while a Mechanical Design Engineer is a specialized professional responsible for designing mechanical systems. Trainees often work under supervision, whereas Design Engineers handle complex projects independently.

How do I get my first job as a mechanical engineering trainee?

To secure your first mechanical engineering trainee position, build a strong foundation with a relevant degree or diploma, gain practical experience through internships or projects, and develop skills in CAD software and basic engineering principles. Networking with industry professionals and applying through company career portals or job boards can also improve your chances.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Rhode Island?

For Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Mechanical Engineering Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Trainee job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,750 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Process Technician I

Nordsonhcm

East Providence, RI

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Nordson EFD, a global leader in Engineered Fluid Dispensing, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to join our team. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we are looking for candidates who share that same commitment.

Summary of the role

As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, where your ideas and contributions will be valued and respected.

JOB SUMMARY

The Level 1 Process Technician is an entry-level trainee role responsible for learning the fundamentals of injection molding operations through on-the-job mentorship and formal training. This position supports production by assisting with mold setups, equipment checks, material changes, and troubleshooting under supervision. The role is critical to the department's long-term succession planning, ensuring the transfer of knowledge from highly tenured technicians to the next generation of skilled talent. The Process Technician I performs all of the duties necessary to set up and ready a press for production, this may include the completion of the first piece inspection and paperwork, under the direction of a supervisor or Prinicpal Process Technicians.

Shift: 7pm - 3:30pm Monday-Friday

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Set molds in presses and run production using pre-existing processes using the established process
  • Assist with mold setups, start-ups, and material changes under supervision
  • Monitor molding machines and processes for stability and quality
  • Support troubleshooting activities to correct minor defects or process deviations
  • Perform visual inspections and basic in-process quality checks
  • Clean molds, tools, and equipment as directed
  • Record data and complete documentation as required
  • Learn and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety, and 6S standards
  • Shadow senior technicians (e.g., Mike, Ken) to support knowledge transfer of legacy equipment
  • Attend formal training (e.g., Routsis Injection Molding Certification) as directed
  • Train process technician trainee as needed
  • Troubleshoot molding processes under supervision
  • Troubleshoot molding machine/tooling malfunctions and communicate information with repair under supervision
  • Provide and implement ideas to improve the efficiency of the molding department
  • Solve quality problems and work with quality department to identify root causes
  • Communicate problems, needs and important information to supervisor
  • Other duties as assigned
  • Practice good housekeeping and appropriate measures to prevent pollution or other negative impacts on the environment

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ years of molding and/or die setter experience or 1+ years of press attendant experience within Nordson EFD's injection molding department
  • Able to speak, read and write in English and have the ability to read and comprehend simple work instructions, short correspondence and memos
  • Interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form as required
  • Solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only standardization exists
  • Knowledge of plastic materials and their processing characteristics
  • Experience with computer-controlled machines
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals

SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs such as Word and Excel
  • Ability to compute rate, ratio and percentages and to draw and interpret various graphs
  • Ability to read and understand work instructions
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Use of hand tools and precision measuring/testing instruments
  • Ability to climb up and down ladders frequently

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Manufacturing environment. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Frequent stooping and bending. Regularly required to sit or stand and move about the facility. Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Nordson Corporation provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees. No person is to be discriminated against in any aspect of the employment relationship due to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, citizenship status, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Interested?

If you are interested in being a part of a team and creating an inclusive and diverse workplace, please apply online with your CV.

About Nordson EFD

Nordson EFD is a world-leading designer and manufacturer of fluid dispensing systems and single-use fluid packaging. By joining our team today, you will help us bring innovative ideas to life. Nordson EFD is a global team that works to create systems and consumables that improve the fluid dispensing process. We offer a supportive culture in a growing and dynamic work environment. Whether you're just beginning your career or you're a seasoned professional, there's a place for you to belong at Nordson EFD. We offer hourly and salary positions in production, maintenance, customer service, quality, engineering, and more. We actively invest in our teams to help you build your skillsets and advance your career.