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Application Design Engineer Jobs in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Analog Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Description We are looking for Image Sensor Analog Design Engineer for design and development of ... Collaborate with verification, process, test, and application engineers to debug, characterize and ...

Analog Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

We are looking forImage Sensor Analog Design Engineer for design and development of next generation ... Collaborate with verification, process, test, and application engineers to debug, characterize and ...

Analog Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

We are looking for Image Sensor Analog Design Engineer for design and development of next ... Collaborate with verification, process, test, and application engineers to debug, characterize and ...

We are looking for Image Sensor Analog Design Engineer for design and development of next ... Collaborate with verification, process, test, and application engineers to debug, characterize and ...

Work with algorithm and application engineers for image tuning and qualification * Silicon validation, debugging & tuning Qualifications : * In depth hands-on experience in ASIC design flow: RTL ...

Sr. Digital Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Work with algorithm and application engineers for image tuning and qualification * Silicon validation, debugging & tuning Qualifications : * In depth hands-on experience in ASIC design flow: RTL ...

Digital Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Design and implement sensor timing control logic and contribute to ISP system-level integration ... Collaborate with algorithm and application engineers on image tuning, optimization, and ...

Digital Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Design and implement sensor timing control logic and contribute to ISP system-level integration ... Collaborate with algorithm and application engineers on image tuning, optimization, and ...

Digital Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Design and implement sensor timing control logic and contribute to ISP system-level integration ... Collaborate with algorithm and application engineers on image tuning, optimization, and ...

Sr. Digital Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Work with algorithm and application engineers for image tuning and qualification * Silicon validation, debugging & tuning Qualifications : * In depth hands-on experience in ASIC design flow: RTL ...

Analog Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

Collaborate with verification, process, test, and application engineers to debug, characterize and ... Design analog/mixed-signal circuits based on specifications; optimize for higher performance;

Design and implement sensor timing control logic and contribute to ISP system-level integration ... Collaborate with algorithm and application engineers on image tuning, optimization, and ...

Analog Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

Conduct design and development of image sensor technologies, work on transistor level design of ... Collaborate with verification, process, test, and application engineers to debug, characterize and ...

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Application Design Engineer information

See Rancho Santa Margarita, CA salary details

$22

$62

$94

How much do application design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for application design engineer in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA is $62.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.53 and $79.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an application design engineer?

Application Design Engineers are professionals who develop, customize, and optimize technical solutions or products to meet specific client or industry needs. They work closely with customers, sales teams, and product development teams to ensure that applications perform efficiently and address user requirements. Their role often involves both engineering design tasks and application support, requiring a strong understanding of both product capabilities and customer use cases. They may also assist in troubleshooting, prototyping, and modifying existing systems to improve functionality.

What are some common challenges faced by application design engineers when working on custom solutions for clients?

Application Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing client requirements with technical feasibility, managing tight deadlines, and ensuring seamless integration with existing systems. They must frequently adapt to evolving project scopes and navigate communication between cross-functional teams, including sales, development, and support. Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills are essential, as is the ability to clearly translate client needs into practical design specifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an application design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Application Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, software development, and system design, usually supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and programming languages such as Python or C++ is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) being advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for translating client needs into technical solutions and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure that complex applications are designed efficiently, meet user requirements, and function reliably in real-world environments.

What is the difference between Application Design Engineer vs Software Engineer?

AspectApplication Design EngineerSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, CAD or design certificationsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, coding certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing settings, client sitesOffices, development labs, remote work
Industry UsageElectronics, automotive, industrial equipmentIT, software development, tech companies
Primary FocusDesigning and testing physical products and systemsWriting, testing, and maintaining software applications

Application Design Engineers focus on creating and testing physical product designs, often working with hardware and systems integration. Software Engineers primarily develop and maintain software applications. While both roles require technical skills and collaboration, their core responsibilities and work environments differ significantly, making this comparison useful for those exploring career options or job opportunities in engineering fields.

Do application design engineers make good money?

Application design engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. They often have specialized skills in software or hardware design, which can lead to higher compensation, especially with advanced certifications or expertise in tools like CAD or simulation software.

What cities near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA are hiring for Application Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rancho Santa Margarita, CA with the most Application Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Application Design Engineer job openings in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,994 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Design Engineer II

Applied Medical

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Applied Medical rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 30 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.
Position Description
The Design Engineer II contributes to Applied Medical's Technology and Development Mechanical team by designing and developing medical device components, assemblies, and fixtures that directly support the advancement of surgical technology. Working onsite at Applied Medical's global headquarters, this role operates within a cross-functional team environment to take products from concept through detailed design, documentation, and integration into the manufacturing process. The Design Engineer II applies mechanical engineering principles, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) modeling, and hands-on prototyping skills to solve complex design challenges and deliver solutions that meet rigorous quality and regulatory standards. Professionals with backgrounds in mechanical design engineering, biomedical device development, product development engineering, or manufacturing engineering will find this role a strong fit.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and develop medical device components, assemblies, and fixtures using CAD software, including two-dimensional and three-dimensional modeling and detailed engineering drawings in SolidWorks.
  • Prepare and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including drawings, specifications, design reviews, and supporting technical materials that meet Applied Medical's quality and regulatory standards.
  • Apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles to ensure design intent is accurately communicated and manufacturable within specification.
  • Build and test physical prototypes hands-on to validate design concepts, evaluate performance, and identify opportunities for improvement prior to production.
  • Identify and resolve design issues by analyzing root causes, generating solution concepts, and implementing changes in a structured and documented manner.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, product managers, and manufacturing teams, to ensure seamless integration of designs into the broader product development process.
  • Contribute to design reviews, risk analyses, and validation activities in support of regulatory compliance and product quality objectives.
  • Stay current on engineering principles, materials, manufacturing processes, and emerging design technologies relevant to medical device development.

Success in This Role Looks Like
  • Delivering detailed, accurate, and manufacturable design documentation that supports smooth handoffs to manufacturing and cross-functional partners.
  • Producing prototype iterations that meaningfully advance design validation and reduce development risk within established project timelines.
  • Applying sound engineering judgment to identify design problems early and implement well-reasoned solutions independently and within a team setting.
  • Building effective working relationships across engineering, manufacturing, and product management that keep design integration on track.
  • Demonstrating consistent growth in technical depth and design ownership, taking on increasingly complex components and assemblies over time.
  • Upholding Applied Medical's standards for design quality, documentation accuracy, and regulatory compliance across every phase of the development process.

Position Requirements
This position requires the following skills and attributes:
  • Two to three years of relevant mechanical or product design engineering work experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or an equivalent field.
  • Proficiency in CAD modeling and drafting, including experience with SolidWorks or comparable three-dimensional design software.
  • Working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and its application in engineering drawings and design specifications.
  • Hands-on experience building and evaluating physical prototypes as part of an iterative product development process.
  • Strong technical writing skills with the ability to prepare and maintain clear, complete design documentation.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional team environments.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze complex systems, identify root causes, and develop innovative solutions independently.

Preferred
The following skills and attributes are preferred:
  • Experience in the medical device industry, with familiarity with surgical applications and clinical needs.
  • Understanding of manufacturing and quality standards, including Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations and ISO quality systems.
  • Exposure to Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Test Method Validation processes.
  • Experience with product lifecycle management software, including SAP NetWeaver or equivalent Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) platforms.
  • Experience using Minitab or other statistical analysis software for design verification and validation activities.
  • Experience applying Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and hand calculations to evaluate component strength, stress, and reliability.

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $75000 - $95000 / year (California).
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • Training and mentorship opportunities.
  • On-campus wellness activities.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
  • Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be based on factors such as relevant education, qualifications, experience. The compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and special discretionary bonus or incentive compensation plans may apply.
Our total reward package reflects our commitment to team member growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

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