Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Denver, CO

Denver, Colorado$115,200 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Denver

Looking for a Mechanical Engineer job in Denver? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Mechanical Engineer in Denver, CO.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Denver has a strong job market for Mechanical Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Mechanical Engineer Salary in Denver

Entry Level
$76,160
Median
$115,200
Senior Level
$161,920

Mechanical Engineer salaries in Denver are 28% above the national average, reflecting the competitive local market.

Purchasing power in Denver is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

CADProduct DesignThermodynamicsManufacturingProblem Solving

Mechanical Engineer Job Market in Denver

Denver, CO is one of America's premier job markets for Mechanical Engineer professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 716K residents, Denver balances career opportunities with quality of life. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Mechanical Engineer roles across various sectors. The market for Mechanical Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Mechanical Engineers in Denver

State of ColoradoCity of DenverRTDDenver Public Schools

Major employers hiring Mechanical Engineers in Denver include State of Colorado, City of Denver, RTD, Denver Public Schools. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Mechanical Engineers in Denver

Living in Denver as a Mechanical Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's above the national average at 128% of baseline. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,900/month. At median Mechanical Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 20% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,500/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

128
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.9K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 1
Market Size

Commuting as a Mechanical Engineer in Denver

Denver RTD light rail system, bus network, and commuter rail to airport. The average commute time is 27 minutes. Light rail reaches major employment centers including DTC. A Line connects downtown to Denver International Airport.

Best neighborhoods for Mechanical Engineers in Denver: LoDo (Lower Downtown) (Historic district with tech startups); RiNo (River North) (Trendy area with tech companies); Denver Tech Center (Suburban tech campus corridor). LoDo (Lower Downtown) is particularly popular among Mechanical Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Colorado

Colorado has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Mechanical Engineers

The job outlook for Mechanical Engineers in Denver is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. As a Tier 1 market, Denver typically has more openings but also more competition from experienced professionals. In-demand skills include CAD, Product Design, Thermodynamics, Manufacturing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Mechanical Engineer salary in Denver, CO?

The average Mechanical Engineer salary in Denver, CO is $115,200 per year. Entry-level Mechanical Engineers typically start around $76,160, while experienced professionals can earn $161,920 or more. The national average for Mechanical Engineer roles is $90,000.

How many Mechanical Engineer jobs are available in Denver?

Denver has a robust job market with hundreds of openings for Mechanical Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Mechanical Engineers include State of Colorado, City of Denver, RTD, Denver Public Schools. The Technology and Aerospace sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Denver a good city for Mechanical Engineers?

Denver is an excellent choice for Mechanical Engineers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for engineering professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Mechanical Engineers in Denver?

Top skills for Mechanical Engineers in Denver include CAD, Product Design, Thermodynamics, Manufacturing, Problem Solving. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Mechanical Engineers in Denver?

Denver's cost of living is above the national average (128% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,900/month. Purchasing power in Denver is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Mechanical Engineers in Denver?

Denver RTD light rail system, bus network, and commuter rail to airport. The average commute is 27 minutes. Light rail reaches major employment centers including DTC.

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