1

Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive Jobs in Grand Junction, CO

Sr. Controls and Automation Engineer

Grand Junction, CO · Hybrid

$94.50K - $124.70K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer Overview As a Senior Controls Engineer at Atlas OT, you will help deliver ... Lead complex automation projects, integrating Mechanical, Electrical, and Software systems across ...

Shop Mechanic

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$24.96 - $39.50/hr

Sales amp; Marketing, Engineering, Human Resources, etc. to ensure a trouble free operation ... senior management * Comfortable in a time-sensitive, project driven, team based environment

Be Seen First

... senior stakeholders, ensuring alignment between the Applied Studies and Technology group ... mechanics principles and their application to foundation design, slope stability analysis, and ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive information

See Grand Junction, CO salary details

$72.6K

$119.4K

$166.6K

How much do senior mechanical engineer automotive jobs pay per year?

As of May 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior mechanical engineer automotive in Grand Junction, CO is $119,415.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,800.00 and $134,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Mechanical Engineer in the automotive industry, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Mechanical Engineer in automotive, you need deep knowledge of mechanical design, materials science, and automotive systems, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering and several years of industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD), FEA tools, and knowledge of industry standards and certifications like Six Sigma or ASME are crucial. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills set top performers apart in leading teams and managing complex projects. These skills and qualifications ensure the effective design, development, and delivery of innovative and reliable automotive products in a competitive market.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Mechanical Engineers in the automotive industry, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Mechanical Engineers in the automotive industry often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative design with manufacturability, meeting strict safety and regulatory standards, and coordinating with cross-functional teams. To address these challenges, strong project management skills and effective communication are essential, as is staying up-to-date with the latest industry technologies and regulations. Collaborating closely with design, manufacturing, and testing teams ensures that engineering solutions are practical, cost-effective, and compliant with all requirements.

What does a Senior Mechanical Engineer do in the automotive industry?

A Senior Mechanical Engineer in the automotive industry leads the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems and components for vehicles. They work on projects such as engine design, powertrain integration, chassis development, and thermal management systems. Their responsibilities include overseeing junior engineers, ensuring compliance with industry standards, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and solving complex engineering challenges to improve vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency.

What is the difference between Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive vs Mechanical Engineer Automotive?

AspectSenior Mechanical Engineer AutomotiveMechanical Engineer Automotive
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, professional experience, possibly PE licenseBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, entry-level or 1-3 years experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and project leadership in automotive manufacturing or R&DDesign, testing, and analysis tasks within automotive companies or suppliers
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, R&D centersAutomotive manufacturing plants, suppliers, engineering consultancies

The main difference between a Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive and a Mechanical Engineer Automotive lies in experience, responsibility, and leadership. Senior roles typically involve project management and advanced design, while entry-level roles focus on technical tasks. Both roles require a background in mechanical engineering and work within the automotive industry, but senior positions demand more experience and often involve mentoring or overseeing projects.

What are popular job titles related to Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive jobs in Grand Junction, CO? For Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive jobs in Grand Junction, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Grand Junction, CO are hiring for Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive jobs? Cities near Grand Junction, CO with the most Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Mechanical Engineer Automotive job openings in Grand Junction, CO as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $119,415 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Sr. Controls and Automation Engineer

Atlas OT

Grand Junction, CO • Hybrid

$94.50K - $124.70K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Senior Controls Engineer

Overview As a Senior Controls Engineer at Atlas OT, you will help deliver integrated automation and controls solutions across a wide range of industries, including energy, manufacturing, food and beverage, water/wastewater, oil and gas, renewables, and more. You'll contribute to projects involving RTU, PLC, flow computer, SCADA, and DCS systems, supporting everything from design and programming to procurement, testing, and deployment. This role involves contributing to internal standards development, estimating project scopes, and supporting the design and implementation of complex, multi-platform systems. You'll apply technical precision and innovation to support advanced electrical, instrumentation, and controls engineering efforts—helping to provide full-service solutions, including panel design, FAT testing, and managed SCADA services. Your work will directly support Atlas OT's mission of delivering reliable, scalable Operational Technology systems. This is more than a senior engineering role—it's a technical leadership opportunity for those who are ready to shape standards, guide teams, and deliver automation excellence on a global scale.

Duties

  • Lead complex automation projects, integrating Mechanical, Electrical, and Software systems across multiple platforms
  • Develop, maintain, and enforce global code libraries and internal programming standards (IEC 61131-3)
  • Architect and approve secure OT network designs, including IDMZ, firewalls, and compliance with IEC 62443 cybersecurity standards
  • Oversee technical quality by reviewing work from Associate Engineers through Lead Engineers and guide and support their adherence to established engineering standards.
  • Lead team in the technical execution of process optimization and automation strategies based on project requirements and best practices
  • Estimate project hours and bill of materials (BOMs) in collaboration with Sales and Project Management teams
  • Approve technical deliverables such as functional specifications, programming logic, and final designs
  • Lead efforts in advanced process control, alarm rationalization, and safety system optimization
  • Uphold and improve quality assurance processes, ensuring compliance with industry and company standards

Requirements

  • Skills
    • Mastery Expert in all five IEC 61131-3 programming languages, with ownership of internal code libraries
    • Subject matter expert (SME) in multiple automation platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, Ignition, Phoenix Contact, etc.)
    • Proven ability to architect and implement complex, multi-platform control systems across multiple sites
    • Strong knowledge of UL, NEC, ISA, and IEC standards; proficiency in process safety and functional safety systems
    • Proficiency with ERP/MES integration, cloud technologies (MQTT), and scripting (Python, C#, VBA)
    • Deep experience designing and securing OT networks to industry standards (IEC 62443)
    • Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking, with the ability to produce clear and accurate technical documentation.
    • Skilled in quality control, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration
  • Work Experience
    • Bachelor's degree in Engineering required; advanced certifications preferred (ISA CAP, PE License – Control Systems)
    • Minimum of 12,000 project hours logged, including system architecture and multi-site implementations (8+ years experience)
    • Prior experience developing and reviewing control narratives, P&IDs, and safety systems (SIS)
    • Experience mentoring junior engineers and contributing to a knowledge-sharing culture
    • Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to travel as needed
    • Drug-free workplace compliance required

Benefits

Atlas OT employees are the best, and as such get the best benefits. Our total compensation plan provides pay above average for our industry as validated by independent third parties. We also provide many opportunities for bonus compensation for those willing to put in extra hours, refer friends and new clients. This part-time position (averaging approximately 20 hours per week) is eligible for our company's health benefits package. Hybrid / Flexible schedule work Company sponsored training and certifications PPE Reimbursement Program $50/month Cell Phone Reimbursement Paid Time off for all Federal Holidays (11 total) 120 hours / year of accrued Paid Time Off (inclusive of 10 Vacation and 5 sick days) Merit Based Rewards and Bonuses such as Quarterly Bonus Employee recognition New Employee Referral Bonus Large group medical, vision and dental coverage with: 75% of employee's premium covered by Atlas OT 50% of employee's + dependent premium if eligible covered by Atlas OT For HSA eligible plans, employer HSA contribution equal to employee contribution up to federally allowable limits 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employer contributions matching employee contributions up to 5% or federally allowable limits. Group Term Life and AD&D Coverage Short Term & Long Term Disability Plans Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Employee Perks Program Voluntary Employee Programs, including: Supplemental Life / AD&D Critical Illness Hospital Indemnity Accident Plan Legal Shield ID Shield Pet Insurance