Explore the growing field of Mechanical Design in St. Louis, with job opportunities across industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive.
ARCO National Holdings is seeking a Mechanical Engineer Intern for our St. Louis area team (Richmond Heights). You will assist with HVAC and mechanical systems…
Senior Mechanical Engineer — Data Centers & Mission-Critical Facilities (Remote) As a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer at Critical Facility Group, youll lead m…
We are seeking a highly experienced remote Senior Mechanical Design Engineers with strong expertise in design of aircraft interior and secondary structure compo…
Corporate OverviewHeadquartered in St. Louis, Missouri with more than 1,200 employees and nearing $2B in revenue, Alberici is a diversified construction company…
A Mechanical Designer creates detailed plans and models of mechanical systems. They work on products like machinery, HVAC systems, or automotive parts.
On a typical day, they use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to develop blueprints and test designs. They also coordinate with engineers and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are feasible and meet quality standards.
St. Louis has a strong manufacturing base and a growing aerospace industry, boosting demand for Mechanical Designers. Major companies like Boeing and Emerson Electric often look for skilled designers.
Many jobs are onsite, especially in manufacturing plants and engineering offices. Remote work is less common but increasing in some design roles, especially for mid-level professionals.
St. Louis also hosts regional job fairs and industry events, which can help you connect directly with hiring managers.
Employers seek candidates with a solid understanding of CAD software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Siemens NX. Knowledge of engineering principles and materials is essential.
Soft skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and attention to detail are highly valued. Being able to communicate technical ideas clearly helps in the collaborative environment.
A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field is typically required. Certifications such as CSWP (Certified SolidWorks Professional) or EIT (Engineer-in-Training) can boost your chances.
Locally, familiarity with industry-specific standards used in the St. Louis region can set you apart. For example, understanding federal aerospace regulations can be a plus.
In St. Louis, a Junior Mechanical Designer earns around $50,000 to $65,000 annually. Mid-level designers typically make $65,000 to $85,000. Senior designers can earn $85,000 to $110,000 or more.
Compared to national averages, salaries in St. Louis are slightly lower but often match the regional cost of living, making them competitive locally.
St. Louis is known for affordable housing and lower overall expenses, ranked as one of the more budget-friendly cities in the U.S. Rental prices are about 30% lower than in major cities like Chicago or New York.
A Mechanical Designer salary in the $60,000–$80,000 range provides a comfortable lifestyle, covering housing, transportation, and leisure without financial strain.
Understanding local employer needs and industry standards will give you an edge in the St. Louis job market.
Learn more about engineering careers in Missouri from Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development. For industry insights, visit Engineering.com.
