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Mechanical Engineering Trainee Jobs in Decatur, GA

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Mechanical Engineering Trainee information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$44.4K

$100.4K

$162.6K

How much do mechanical engineering trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering trainee in Decatur, GA is $100,443.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,600.00 and $123,500.00 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 Decatur, GA?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Decatur, GA?

For Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Mechanical Engineering Trainee job openings:

Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs near you

Field Engineering Management Trainee (Various Locations)

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Norfolk Southern Corp.
See more jobs at Norfolk Southern Corp.external

$88K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Requisition 40258: A1 MWS Management Trainee 2027 

Field Engineering Trainee - (Various Locations)

Anticipated Start Date- January 2027 

Job Description

Field Engineering Trainees in Norfolk Southern' s Maintenance of Way department play a vital role in our operations team. Trainees will train under current supervisors who are responsible for managing teams of unionized employees to directly oversee the inspections, repair, and maintenance of our railroad tracks and bridges (aka the "Way" that our trains operate over). Our extensive new hire trainee program will educate you on the intricacies of working on the railroad to accomplish this goal.

During training, you will learn train and track dynamics, track inspection, construction, and maintenance operations, and much more. After successful completion of the six-month training program, you will manage track maintenance employees and be directly involved in track inspections and defect remediation scheduling and execution. Supervisors are responsible for managing a territory spanning dozens of miles that can include one or more rail terminals supporting an operation that runs 24/7. 

Interested in seeing what it's like to be a Norfolk Southern Track Supervisor in the Engineering department? Watch this 2-minute video to find out more. 

What makes a successful trainee in the Maintenance of Way department?

  • Candidates who are looking for a career in field supervision, not a desk job
  • A willingness to work hands-on and outdoors among the elements, day or night
  • A self-starter who can work with little direct supervision
  • Ability to lead a team by example, we call it "Leading from the Front!"
  • Ability to plan, manage, and adapt on the fly
  • Ability to build effective and responsive interpersonal relationships
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
  • Individuals who understand the only way we work is SAFELY

Education/Experience

  • Preferred Level: Bachelor's Degree (BS)
    • Other education and experience levels are considered
  • Preferred Majors: Civil Engineering, Mining Engineering, Construction Management, General Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Biosystems Engineering, Management
    • Other Relevant Majors considered
    • In lieu of a degree: 4+ years of leadership and industrial experience such as military, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, production environments, or other leadership roles

Work Environment

  • Environment: Outdoor/Field
  • Shift Work: Yes
  • On-Call: Yes
  • Weekend Work: Yes
  • Travel Required: Extensive Travel for some positions and/or Relocation (Relocation Benefits provided)
  • Potential Training locations include:

Atlanta, GA; Bellevue, OH; Birmingham, AL; Bluefield, WV; Bryan, OH; Chattanooga, TN; Chicago, IL; Christiansburg, VA; Cincinnati, OH; Cleveland, OH; Columbia, PA; Conway, PA; Cresson, PA; Dalton, GA; Danville, KY; Decatur, IL; Detroit, MI; Elkhart, IN; Enola, PA; Front Royal, VA; Ft. Wayne, IN; Gainesville, GA; Greensboro, NC; Greenville, SC; Harriman, TN; Harrisburg, PA; Hattiesburg, MS; Kansas City, MO; Knoxville, TN; Lafayette, IN; Leechburg, PA; Linwood, NC; Lock Haven, PA; Lynchburg, VA; Macon, GA; McDonough, GA; Meridian, MS; Moberly, MO; Narrows, VA; Norfolk, VA; Pittsburgh, PA; Portage, IN; Raleigh, NC; Roanoke, VA; Rockmart, GA; Sandusky, OH; Shelbyville, KY; St. Louis, MO; Toledo, OH; Valdosta, GA; Vance, AL; Waynesburg, PA;

Compensation

Trainee salary is $83,000/USD and steps up to $88,000/USD at the completion of your six-month training program.

Projected Career Path

Supervisor Track Inspection - Track Supervisor - Engineer Track - Division Engineer - Chief Engineer

Company Overview

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers.

We are a team of more than 20,000 employees working together to maintain our reputation as "The Thoroughbred of Transportation." As an industry leader, Norfolk Southern offers a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation and, gender identity. Together, we power progress. More information can be found at NS-EEO

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