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New Grad Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Symbotic

New Grad- Integration Specialist

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$82K - $113K/yr

New Grad- Integration Specialist We want to learn from you! Our teams at Symbotic value the early ... What we need The Integration Specialist role is to startup, commission, test PLC (Programmable ...

Symbotic

New Grad- Integration Specialist

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$39.42 - $54.47/hr

New Grad- Integration Specialist We want to learn from you! Our teams at Symbotic value the early ... What we need The Integration Specialist role is to startup, commission, test PLC (Programmable ...

Teledyne FLIR LLC

Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... of mechanical or electromechanical products and systems. Applies knowledge of engineering ... Normally receives general instructions on routine work and detailed instruction son new projects or ...

Teledyne

Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... of mechanical or electromechanical products and systems. Applies knowledge of engineering ... Normally receives general instructions on routine work and detailed instruction son new projects or ...

Uster

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Lead mechanical design and development efforts for new product platforms and major product ... Perform engineering analysis to validate design decisions. * Execute product development activities ...

Mesa Accosiates

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

Mesa Associates is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to serve as a true generalist across our ... We're looking for someone versatile, approachable, and just as comfortable picking up a new type of ...

Mesa Associates Inc.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

Mesa Associates is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to serve as a true generalist across our ... We're looking for someone versatile, approachable, and just as comfortable picking up a new type of ...

Uster

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$86K - $113K/yr

Lead the design and development of complex mechanical and electromechanical systems for new product ... Collaborate across engineering disciplines to ensure successful system integration. * Lead ...

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All JobsNew Grad Mechanical Engineer JobsNew Grad Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

New Grad Mechanical Engineer information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$43.5K

$98.4K

$159.2K

How much do new grad mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for new grad mechanical engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $98,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,900.00 and $120,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a new grad mechanical engineer do?

A New Grad Mechanical Engineer typically assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices and systems under the supervision of more experienced engineers. Their responsibilities may include creating technical drawings, conducting simulations, supporting prototype fabrication, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. They often work on tasks such as improving product designs, analyzing data, and ensuring projects meet safety and quality standards. This role is an entry-level position that provides recent graduates with valuable experience and opportunities for professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a new grad mechanical engineer?

To thrive as a New Grad Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help new graduates effectively contribute to projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills enable new engineers to quickly learn on the job, contribute meaningful solutions, and drive project success in a dynamic engineering environment.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a new grad mechanical engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As a new grad mechanical engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as supporting senior engineers with design calculations, creating and revising CAD drawings, assisting in prototype development, and conducting basic testing or analysis. You’ll likely collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including manufacturing, electrical, and quality engineers, which helps in understanding how your work fits into broader project goals. Many companies also assign new grads to rotational programs or mentorships to help accelerate your learning and exposure to different areas. Being proactive in seeking feedback and volunteering for diverse assignments can help you quickly build both technical and soft skills.

What is the difference between New Grad Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Designer?

AspectNew Grad Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly internship experienceBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field, technical certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing, and development in engineering teamsCreating detailed drawings and models, collaborating with engineers and manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, automotive, aerospaceProduct design companies, manufacturing, industrial equipment

In summary, a New Grad Mechanical Engineer typically focuses on engineering analysis and development, while a Mechanical Designer specializes in creating detailed technical drawings and models. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and are found in related industries, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

What can a new graduate mechanical engineer do after graduation?

A new graduate mechanical engineer can pursue entry-level positions in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or energy, where they apply their knowledge of design, thermodynamics, and materials. They may also seek internships, obtain professional certifications like EIT or PE, or continue their education through advanced degrees to enhance career prospects.

What are popular job titles related to New Grad Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

For New Grad Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching New Grad Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for New Grad Mechanical Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for New Grad Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most New Grad Mechanical Engineer job openings:

New Grad Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various New Grad Mechanical Engineer job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,356 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 121 rated laboratories

Job description

Requisition Id 16822
Overview:
The Laboratory Modernization Division (LMD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Mechanical Engineer, with experience in the design, construction, and operation of mechanical systems supporting data centers. The selected candidate will provide engineering and design oversight for facility-level process cooling systems and subsystems, including the interfaces between those systems and specific High Performance Computing platforms. This role includes providing technical and field oversight for construction on a new data center facility at ORNL. This position resides within the New Facility Construction Group within the Laboratory Modernization Division, which is part of the Facilities & Operations (F&O) Directorate.
The successful candidate will support planning, design, construction, commissioning, and turnover of mechanical and related facility systems for a large-scale, high-security data center environment. Responsibilities include facility and data center equipment cooling and piping, system controls, and utility interface, and coordination with ORNL subject matter experts, design teams, construction contractors, operations, and maintenance organizations.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Oversee and perform mechanical engineering and design oversight for data center projects including review and approve mechanical design documents, change orders, material requisitions, calculations, studies, and specifications for construction or procurement use.
  • Support planning, design, construction, commissioning, and turnover of mechanical systems for mission-critical data center facilities within scope, schedule, budget, and available funding.
  • Develop and review project definitions, conceptual mechanical system designs, scopes of work, methods of accomplishment, design documents, specifications, cost estimates, schedules, and construction/procurement packages.
  • Review contractor proposals, including architectural, engineering, and/or construction proposals, to ensure alignment with scope intent and objectives.
  • Coordinate technical issue resolution with the design team, Design and Project Management, construction representatives, operations staff, vendors, and others as appropriate.
  • Conduct design reviews to ensure documents, including drawings, specifications, data sheets, and cost estimates, align with scope requirements and meet project objectives.
  • Collaborate with ORNL utilities, facility automation, operations, maintenance, and safety subject matter experts to ensure complete and coordinated installations.
  • Proactively identify and resolve potential design and construction issues, including safety, cost, schedule, quality, code compliance, configuration control, operability, maintainability, and constructability concerns.
  • Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:
  • BS degree in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant discipline from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • A minimum of five years of experience in design. Experience developing cooling and piping system designs, including cooling system component sizing, system controls, and subsystem design integration.
  • Experience supporting design, design reviews, construction oversight, field inspections, commissioning, testing, and technical issue resolution for facility electrical systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with operations, construction, facilities, and/or maintenance teams and coordinate field system tie-ins in a co-occupancy environment involving operations, construction contractors, vendors, and other stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated ability to create, organize, and manage project documents from conception to completion, including closeout and as-built documentation.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Professional Engineer registration in the State of Tennessee or the ability to obtain registration.
  • A minimum of eight years of experience in design, design management, and/or construction management of multiple disciplines.
  • Experience performing constructability reviews, options analysis, and conceptual engineering to address construction conditions not anticipated during project design.
  • Experience coordinating design and construction work in the field and in sensitive mission-critical facility settings such as energy plants, utility rooms, research laboratory spaces, or similar environments.
  • Knowledge of Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705 standards for the construction, accreditation, and maintenance of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs)

Special Requirements:
  • Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program. In addition, due the SCI, you may also be subject to random polygraph testing.
  • Visa Sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About ORNL:
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.
ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.
If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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