Mechanical Engineer – Future Opening

VAA; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 69,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Life insurance

Profit sharing

401(k)

Paid leave

Job summary

VAA in Minneapolis is seeking an Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer to support senior staff on real client projects. You will learn how equipment and mechanical systems come together to make facilities work, and you will contribute to design solutions from day one.

You will work under a Project or Senior Engineer, developing skills in calculations, drawings and design software, while gaining exposure to multidisciplinary teams and site visits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Graduating in December 2026 or May 2027
• Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn
• Interest in mechanical systems and multidisciplinary project work

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical design solutions using fundamentals and problem-solving skills
• Prepare calculations, drawings, specifications and other design documents
• Build knowledge of design codes and industry standards
• Gain experience using mechanical engineering and design software
• Collaborate with engineers, designers and other VAA disciplines
• Visit construction sites and observe work in the field
• Take on more complex work as skills grow

Skills

Problem-solving

Willingness to learn

Mechanical systems interest

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Graduating in Dec 2026 or May 2027

Job description

Location: Minneapolis, MN: candidates interested in New Orleans, LA or Sioux Falls, SD may also be considered.

Ready to Start Building Your Career?

Graduating in December 2026 or May 2027? Bring what you've learned in the classroom to real projects at VAA.

As an Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer, you'll work alongside experienced engineers, contribute to meaningful client work and start building the technical and professional skills that will shape your career. You'll see how equipment and mechanical systems come together to make complex facilities work.

Come ready to learn, contribute and grow. Your career is just getting started.

Your Role

Curious about how all the mechanical pieces of a facility work together? VAA's Mechanical team designs material handling, process ventilation and building safety systems; process and utility piping and heat exchangers; and HVAC and plumbing systems for agribusiness, industrial and commercial facilities.

Working under the direction of a Project or Senior Engineer, you'll have opportunities to:

• Develop mechanical design solutions using engineering fundamentals and problem-solving skills
• Prepare calculations, drawings, specifications and other design documents
• Build your knowledge of design codes and industry standards
• Gain experience using mechanical engineering and design software
• Collaborate with engineers, designers and other VAA disciplines
• Visit construction sites, observe work in the field and prepare reports
• Take on more complex work and responsibility as your skills grow

Potential travel: Approximately 5% to construction jobsites.

What Your Career at VAA Could Look Like

• Do meaningful work. Contribute to real client projects from the start.
• Learn from the pros. Get mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.
• Work across disciplines. See how Mechanical fits into the bigger project picture.
• Keep growing. Build your technical knowledge and professional skills.
• Get out there. Visit jobsites and see how designs become working systems.
• Find your people. Build connections through project teams, mentorship and Employee Resource Groups.
• Build your future. Grow your responsibilities as your experience and confidence increase.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Graduating in December 2026 or May 2027, or recently graduated
• Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn
• Interest in mechanical systems and multidisciplinary project work

Starting Annual Salary Range: $69,000–$85,000

Benefits That Grow With You

Health, dental and vision insurance; life insurance; profit sharing/401(k); discretionary bonus program; paid leave; and more.

Get to Know VAA

VAA is an Engineering, Planning and Design firm specializing in commercial projects, bulk commodity-handling facilities, and structures for value-added processing, manufacturing and distribution.

Hear first-hand what it's like to work here, the opportunities you can find and the resources that will support you - professionally and personally:

Watch the VAA Careers Video

Let's Get Growing

Your career. Your talents. Your network.

VAA is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Vets/Disability employer

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process, please contact Human Resources at [e-mail]

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