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Assistant Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AlfaTech

Design Engineer (Mechanical)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Design Engineer, Mechanical About Us At AlfaTech we believe in more than just engineering solutions ... Conduct analyses to develop MEP design options and recommendations. * Assist in the planning and ...

AlfaTech

Design Engineer, Electrical

San Jose, CA · On-site

As a leading consulting engineering firm, we provide thoughtful engineering design that is ... Conduct analyses to develop electrical design options and recommendations. * Assist in the planning ...

AlfaTech

Design Engineer (Mechanical)

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$89K - $121K/yr

Design Engineer, Mechanical About Us At AlfaTech we believe in more than just engineering solutions ... Conduct analyses to develop MEP design options and recommendations. * Assist in the planning and ...

Saratech, Inc.

Design Engineer

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

  • PTO

You will assist the Engineering Services/Design team with various support duties such as CAD modeling, part model check reviews, industry standard parts specifications and project planning.

AlfaTech

Design Engineer (Mechanical)

San Jose, CA · On-site

As a leading consulting engineering firm, we provide thoughtful engineering design that is ... Conduct analyses to develop MEP design options and recommendations. * Assist in the planning and ...

Apple

Physical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$160K - $164K/yr

We have an opportunity for a forward-thinking and unusually hardworking Physical Design Engineer ... designs. Assist in flow development for chip integration. Minimum Qualifications Bachelors of ...

Apple

Physical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$160K - $164K/yr

We have an opportunity for a forward-thinking and unusually hardworking Physical Design Engineer ... designs. Assist in flow development for chip integration. Minimum Qualifications Bachelors of ...

Saratech

Design Engineer

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

  • PTO

You will assist the Engineering Services/Design team with various support duties such as CAD modeling, part model check reviews, industry standard parts specifications and project planning.

Legence

Electrical Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Collaborate with project teams to deliver high-quality engineering solutions. * Assist with lighting circuiting and lighting controls design. * Utilize AutoCAD and Revit MEP for design documentation.

Salas O'Brien

Electrical Design Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Electrical Design Engineer At Salas O'Brien, we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact ... needed. * Assist Project Managers with technical input, schedule coordination, and project ...

Consor Engineers

Bridge Design Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You`ll assist with the research, design, concept development, planning, and construction of load ... The bridge design engineer reports to the design manager. Yearly Salary Range $120,000-$200,000 ...

Apple

Physical Design Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$167K - $172K/yr

... designs. Assist in flow development for chip integration. Minimum Qualifications Bachelors of ... Engineering. Preferred Qualifications Deep design experience in high PHY and/or SOC designs. Deep ...

Consor Engineers

Bridge Design Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You`ll assist with the research, design, concept development, planning, and construction of load ... The bridge design engineer reports to the design manager. Yearly Salary Range $120,000-$200,000 ...

Apple

Physical Design Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$167K - $172K/yr

... designs. Assist in flow development for chip integration. Minimum Qualifications Bachelors of ... Engineering. Preferred Qualifications Deep design experience in high PHY and/or SOC designs. Deep ...

Consor Engineers

Bridge Design Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You`ll assist with the research, design, concept development, planning, and construction of load ... The bridge design engineer reports to the design manager. Yearly Salary Range $120,000-$200,000 ...

HDR

Structural Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

In the role of Structural Design Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Assist in condition assessments of various hydraulic structures * Perform preliminary and detailed civil / structural analysis ...

HDR

Structural Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

In the role of Structural Design Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Assist in condition assessments of various hydraulic structures * Perform preliminary and detailed civil / structural analysis ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsDesign Engineer JobsAssistant Design Engineer JobsAssistant Design Engineer Jobs in California

Assistant Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$87.6K

$132.7K

How much do assistant design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant design engineer in California is $87,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,600.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant design engineer do?

An Assistant Design Engineer supports senior engineers in creating and developing designs for products, structures, or systems. Their tasks often include preparing technical drawings, conducting research, creating prototypes, and assisting with testing and analysis. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create models and work closely with other team members to ensure designs meet project requirements and safety standards. This role is typically an entry-level position that provides valuable experience in engineering design and project management.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with design tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as EIT (Engineer-in-Training) are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork and communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure precise, innovative design solutions and effective collaboration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Assistant Design Engineer vs Design Engineer?

AspectAssistant Design EngineerDesign Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience
Work EnvironmentSupport role in design teams, assisting senior engineersLead or primary role in designing projects, overseeing technical details
ResponsibilitiesAssist in creating designs, preparing drawings, and conducting researchDevelop and finalize designs, review technical specifications, and coordinate with manufacturing

The main difference between an Assistant Design Engineer and a Design Engineer lies in responsibility level and experience. Assistant Design Engineers support the design process and gain experience, while Design Engineers take on more complex tasks and lead design projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Design Engineers typically have more hands-on experience and responsibility.

What are some common challenges assistant design engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to professional engineering environments?

Assistant Design Engineers often find that transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering roles involves adapting to tighter deadlines, larger teams, and stricter compliance with industry standards. Unlike classroom assignments, professional projects require precise documentation, coordination with other departments such as manufacturing and quality assurance, and adherence to budget constraints. Embracing collaborative tools and clear communication is essential, as is being open to feedback from senior engineers to grow technically and professionally.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Design Engineer jobs in California?

For Assistant Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Design Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Design Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Design Engineer job openings:

Assistant Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,592 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Design Engineer (Mechanical)

AlfaTech

San Jose, CA • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Design Engineer, Mechanical
About Us
At AlfaTech we believe in more than just engineering solutions; we believe in promoting a culture of agility, collaboration, and inclusion. As a leading consulting engineering firm, we provide thoughtful engineering design that is technologically forward thinking, innovative, and environmentally conscious, ensuring that our contribution to our built environment is flexible, sustainable, and lasting across all the market segments we serve.
If you're driven by a passion for engineering, innovation, and making a difference, if you thrive on challenges and adapt quickly to change, and if you are looking to be part of a dynamic team of empowered, smart, energized, professionals, then AlfaTech is the place for you.
Job Summary
The Design Engineer will work on a variety of projects, from small to large, providing high level of technical leadership. They will represent the firm and interact with clients, contractors, architects, and other project team members and are involved in the design process with a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability. This position requires a self-motivated individual with strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Strong initiative and follow-through are essential.
Core Responsibilities
  • Work closely with senior engineers through the mechanical design and construction administration process.
  • Create mechanical designs with Revit.
  • Conduct analyses to develop MEP design options and recommendations.
  • Assist in the planning and design of MEP systems for commercial facilities, including education, healthcare, office facilities, and other commercial and industrial projects.
  • Perform energy modeling, system sizing, load calculations, and design layouts.
  • Assist in the preparation of proposals, cost estimates, and equipment schedules.
  • Propose innovative solutions to design issues.
  • Coordinate project scope, design, and deadlines with project managers/senior engineers.
  • Perform submittal and shop drawing reviews and ensure timely response to RFI's.
  • Conduct construction site reviews, prepare feasibility studies, and basis of design reports.
  • Manage tasks as required to ensure work is completed on time and budget.
  • Active participant in the design and construction project team meetings.
  • Coordinate, support, and communicate with colleagues across disciplines.
  • Maintain good relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Ensure that designs are compliant with Building/Energy Codes and LEED standards.
  • Implement design in BIM environment.
  • Other duties as assigned.

This is meant to summarize the role's responsibilities and provide some information and structure. At AlfaTech we encourage our staff to think outside the box and explore opportunities beyond the confines of one's stated responsibilities to bring new thoughts, ideas, and innovations to our company.
Ideal Candidate
  • Minimum 2-4-year experience as a Designer or other related role
  • Knowledge of codes, standards, and construction/engineering processes.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proclivity for catching the error and enacting appropriate changes.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment with multiple project deadlines.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Bluebeam, Revit, and other engineering analysis and compliance software.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) Certification preferred.
  • LEED Accreditation preferred.

Essential Requirements
  • MS Suite of Products
  • Proficient in Trace 700
  • Knowledge of state and local Building Codes
  • Proficient in Revit, BIM 360
  • Proficient in Energy Pro, CBECC.com

Salary Range
This is a hybrid role. It is anticipated that the working days in the office will be done at our San Jose, CA office. The expected salary range for candidates who will work in San Jose, CA is $90,000 - $120,000. The final offer to our new team member will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the length, breadth, and depth of experience within the job and the industry, education, etc. ATCE is a multi-state employer, and this salary range may not reflect positions that work in other states.

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