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3D Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Harness Design Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

HARNESS DESIGN ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's satellite technology and launch ... Develop electro-mechanical harness designs and drawings in a 3D NX CAD environment, with emphasis ...

New

SpaceX

Harness Design Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA

$115K - $140K/yr

HARNESS DESIGN ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's satellite technology and launch ... Develop electro-mechanical harness designs and drawings in a 3D NX CAD environment, with emphasis ...

New

Patagonia, Inc.

Senior Design Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$118K - $135K/yr

Experience with 3D design/engineering tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino) is a plus * Hands-on experience with a range of fabrication methods, including sewing, adhesive lamination, RF welding, 3D ...

Patagonia

Senior Design Engineer

Ventura, CA · Hybrid

$118K - $135K/yr

Experience with 3D design/engineering tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino) is a plus * Hands-on experience with a range of fabrication methods, including sewing, adhesive lamination, RF welding, 3D ...

ACCO Engineered Systems

Design Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Design complex layouts for ducting, piping, and control systems using 2D and 3D modeling software ... Manage field engineering tasks including site surveys, trade coordination, and technical problem ...

Rock West Composites

Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

This role creates 3D models, engineering drawings, and technical documentation while collaborating ... The Design Engineer supports products throughout the development lifecycle, working closely with ...

Rock West Composites

Design Engineer

San Diego, CA

$110K - $135K/yr

This role creates 3D models, engineering drawings, and technical documentation while collaborating ... The Design Engineer supports products throughout the development lifecycle, working closely with ...

Darnell Technical Services

Be Seen First

AutoCAD Civil 3D Design Drafter

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Well established Professional Civil Engineering and Land Surveying services firm has two contract ... Utility Design-Field to Final Mapping-Grading-Permit Processing Land Surveying: FEMA Certification ...

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Showing results 1-20

All Jobs3D Design Engineer Jobs3D Design Engineer Jobs in California

3D Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$40K

$87K

$156.4K

How much do 3d design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d design engineer in California is $86,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 3D Design Engineer position, and why are they important?

A 3D Design Engineer typically needs a degree in engineering or industrial design and strong skills in CAD software, 3D modeling, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or CATIA, and relevant certifications like Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP), are highly valuable. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating across design and engineering teams. These competencies are crucial for creating accurate, innovative designs and ensuring seamless integration with manufacturing processes.

What is a 3D Design Engineer job?

A 3D Design Engineer is responsible for creating and developing 3D models, drawings, and prototypes for products, components, or structures using specialized computer-aided design (CAD) software. They work closely with engineers, designers, and manufacturers to ensure designs meet technical and functional requirements. Their role includes optimizing designs for manufacturing, performing simulations, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. 3D Design Engineers are commonly employed in industries such as automotive, aerospace, architecture, and consumer products.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a 3D Design Engineer?

A 3D Design Engineer's daily tasks often include developing detailed 3D models and technical drawings, refining prototypes based on feedback, and collaborating closely with project managers, engineers, and manufacturing teams. You might also spend time conducting simulations to test your designs, participating in team meetings to discuss project goals, and revising designs to address technical or production challenges. Regular coordination with other departments is common to ensure designs meet functional requirements and comply with industry standards. This role offers a dynamic environment where problem-solving and innovation are part of everyday work.

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Design Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of 3D Design Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to 3D Design Engineer jobs in California? For 3D Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 3D Design Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Design Engineer jobs in California are:
3D Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Design Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,995 per year, or $41.8 per hour.
Design Engineer (Combustion Devices)

Design Engineer (Combustion Devices)

Arbor Energy

El Segundo, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Role Overview

We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer for our Combustion team to own the 3D design of high-temperature, high-pressure hardware from concept through fabrication.  You'll collaborate closely with combustion engineers, analysts, and test engineers to develop practical, test-ready systems. Your work will leverage metal additive manufacturing, precision machining, and algorithmic design techniques to push the boundaries of modern fabrication. 

This is an onsite opportunity in our El Segundo, CA office. 

Responsibilities
  • Lead detailed 3D modeling of complex components and assemblies. 
  • Apply Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) principles to optimize performance, cost, and manufacturability. 
  • Create complete drawing packages with GD&T, assembly documentation, and bill of materials (BOMs). 
  • Translate engineering requirements into practical, buildable designs. 
  • Generate work instructions and collaborate with technicians during builds and test campaigns. 
  • Continuously iterate based on feedback from analysis, testing, and fabrication. 
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or a related Engineering discipline. 
  • 3+ years of experience in mechanical design of high-performance systems. 
  • Proficiency in CAD software (Siemens NX preferred; others such as SolidWorks or Creo also acceptable). 
  • Experience producing fully detailed drawing packages including GD&T and manufacturing specs. 
  • Experience with additive manufacturing and DfAM principles. 
  • Understanding of additive constraints: overhang angles, support strategy, build orientation, powder removal, etc. 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Exposure to material behavior and surface finish considerations in high-temperature AM alloys (e.g., Inconel 625/718, Hastelloy, Haynes). 
  • Familiarity with FEA or fluid/thermal analysis workflows. 
  • Prior experience in a fast-paced, hands-on R&D or startup environment. 
  • Exposure to combustion systems, high-temperature materials, or pressure vessels. 
Compensation & Benefits
  • Pre-IPO stock options
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Arbor covers 90% for employees)
  • Basic life insurance fully covered
  • Health savings account (HSA) with matching
  • Flexible savings account (FSA)
  • Unlimited PTO 
  • 12+ company holidays, including Earth Day! 
  • 401(k)
  • Commuter benefits
  • Annual learning and development stipend
  • And more!

Base Pay: $130,000 - $150,000 USD/year. The salary is subject to the applicant's skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.

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