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Recent Graduate Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Recent Graduate Engineer information

See salary details

$30.5K

$68.6K

$115.5K

How much do recent graduate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for recent graduate engineer in the United States is $68,617.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges recent graduate engineers face during their first year on the job?

Recent graduate engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to real-world project timelines, transitioning from academic theory to practical application, and understanding workplace communication protocols. Navigating team dynamics and learning to balance multiple tasks or projects simultaneously can also be new experiences. Seeking mentorship and actively asking questions can help ease the transition and accelerate professional growth in the early stages of an engineering career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recent Graduate Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recent Graduate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, as well as experience with project management tools, is typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability will help you excel in collaborative, fast-paced environments. These skills are crucial for effectively contributing to projects, learning quickly on the job, and successfully transitioning from academia to professional engineering practice.

What is the difference between Recent Graduate Engineer vs Entry-Level Engineer?

AspectRecent Graduate EngineerEntry-Level Engineer
QualificationsRecent degree, limited work experienceSame as recent graduate, possibly some internships
Work EnvironmentTraining-focused, supervised rolesOperational roles with increasing responsibilities
Industry UsageCommonly used for new graduates entering engineering rolesBroader term for early-career engineers

Recent Graduate Engineer typically refers to individuals who have recently completed their engineering degree and are starting their professional careers, often in training or supervised roles. Entry-Level Engineer is a broader term that includes recent graduates and those with minimal work experience beginning their engineering jobs. Both roles are aimed at early-career professionals, but 'Recent Graduate Engineer' emphasizes the candidate's recent academic completion, while 'Entry-Level Engineer' highlights the job level regardless of graduation timing.

What are recent graduate engineers?

Recent graduate engineers are individuals who have recently completed an engineering degree and are beginning their professional careers. They typically have foundational knowledge in their specific engineering discipline, such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. These engineers often start in entry-level positions where they gain practical experience, develop technical skills, and learn workplace protocols. Many employers offer training and mentorship programs to help recent graduates transition smoothly into the workforce.
More about Recent Graduate Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Recent Graduate Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Recent Graduate Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Recent Graduate Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Recent Graduate Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Recent Graduate Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,617 per year, or $33 per hour.
Graduate Engineer Structural

$62K - $100K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

MSA is seeking a motivated and collaborative Graduate Engineer - Structural to join our growing structural team. This entry-level opportunity is ideal for a recent engineering graduate who is passionate about designing meaningful public infrastructure and community-focused facilities. In this role, you'll contribute to projects that directly improve how communities live, work, and connect - including municipal buildings, water and wastewater facilities, waterfront structures, parks and recreation amenities, and storage/tank structures.

You'll work alongside experienced structural engineers, architects, and multidisciplinary teams to help deliver innovative, sustainable, and practical solutions for municipalities and infrastructure clients in communities we live, work and play in. From concept development through construction, you'll gain hands-on experience while building a strong technical foundation and growing your professional engineering career.

MSA Professional Services is 100% employee-owned, meaning every employee has a direct stake in the success of the company. This ownership mindset drives our collaborative culture, long-term thinking, and commitment to delivering high-quality work for the communities we serve.

ResponsibilitiesStructural Design & Technical Support
  • Assist with the structural design and analysis of buildings and infrastructure-related structures.
  • Support projects involving municipal facilities, water and wastewater treatment plants, waterfront and marine structures, parks and recreation facilities, and tank/storage structures.
  • Perform engineering calculations and develop construction documents under the supervision of licensed engineers.
  • Utilize structural analysis and modeling software, BIM/CADD platforms, and other engineering tools to support project delivery.
  • Assist with preparing technical reports, specifications, and engineering studies.
Project & Field Support
  • Participate in field investigations, condition assessments, and construction observation activities.
  • Review shop drawings, respond to contractor questions, and document field conditions during construction.
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including civil, transportation, mechanical, electrical, and environmental professionals.
  • Attend project meetings and interact with clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies alongside senior staff.
Professional Development
  • Build foundational knowledge in structural engineering principles, industry standards, and municipal infrastructure design.
  • Develop technical communication, project coordination, and problem-solving skills through mentorship and hands-on project experience.
  • Pursue professional licensure goals, including obtaining Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis or related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program.
  • Foundational understanding of structural engineering principles and building systems.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with structural analysis, BIM, or CADD software.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while managing multiple assignments.
Preferred
  • Internship or cooperative education experience in structural engineering or consulting.
  • Exposure to Revit, AutoCAD, RISA, RAM, STAAD, SAP2000, or similar structural software platforms.
  • Interest in municipal, industrial, and infrastructure-related building design.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or ability to obtain within six months of hire.

Ideal Candidate Profile

  • The ideal candidate is curious, detail-oriented, and excited to learn from experienced mentors while contributing to projects that serve the public good. They are energized by solving technical challenges, collaborating across disciplines, and seeing their work positively impact communities.
Additional Benefits

Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Compensation Range: $62k to $100k (commensurate with experience)
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents

  • Paid Time Off - Minimum of 17 days in the first year

  • Paid Holidays - 8 holidays annually

  • Paid Parental Leave - 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents

  • Employer-Paid Insurance - Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage

  • Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) - Annual performance-based bonus opportunity

Equal Opportunity Employer

MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.

Employment Type: OTHER