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Assistant Design Engineer Jobs in Poway, CA (NOW HIRING)

Engineer III

Poway, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

Able to assist design engineers and CAD/CAM/CMM programmers in resolving model changes for manufacturability. Provide redline feedback to engineering to correct or improve drawings and designs.

Engineer II

Poway, CA · On-site

$68K - $116K/yr

Able to assist design engineers and CAD/CAM/CMM programmers in resolving model changes for manufacturability. * Work directly with systems, design, and test engineers to enhance manufacturability ...

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Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer We're looking for a creative and committed Mechanical Design Engineer ... Estimate material and hardware needs early in design to track anticipated costs. * Assist in ...

Design Manager (Electrical)

Escondido, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Prepares "RFI" questions to resolve conflicts and problems. * Assist project teams with RFP ... engineering partners, to ensure the goals and objectives of our RFP response are being met and ...

Design Manager (Electrical)

Escondido, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Prepares "RFI" questions to resolve conflicts and problems. * Assist project teams with RFP ... engineering partners, to ensure the goals and objectives of our RFP response are being met and ...

Electrical Design Manager

Escondido, CA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Prepares "RFI" questions to resolve conflicts and problems. * Assist project teams with RFP ... engineering partners, to ensure the goals and objectives of our RFP response are being met and ...

Showing results 41-60

Assistant Design Engineer information

See Poway, CA salary details

$33.8K

$90.8K

$137.6K

How much do assistant design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant design engineer in Poway, CA is $90,792.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,100.00 and $106,900.00 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 job categories do people searching Assistant Design Engineer jobs in Poway, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Design Engineer jobs in Poway, CA are:
What cities near Poway, CA are hiring for Assistant Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Poway, CA with the most Assistant Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Design Engineer job openings in Poway, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,792 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

$81K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
Under general supervision and with regular review, this position supports the Manufacturing Engineering staff in the analysis, investigation and resolution of engineering problems of moderate scope and complexity. Assignments are normally accompanied by general instructions and suggestions, outlining possible approaches, sources or information, and potential problems to be encountered with work reviewed regularly for soundness of technical judgment, overall adequacy and accuracy. Tasks involve the exercise of independent judgment and discretion about matters of significance. Documents findings and implemented solutions and communicates results to engineering staff. Contacts are primarily internal with infrequent inter-organization or customer contact on routine matters. May provide direction to design or technician staff.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Responsible for providing Manufacturing Engineering support to the Mechanical Assembly group, primarily for electrical and electro-mechanical assemblies.
  • Expected to develop innovative but practical solutions to advanced technical problems in manufacturing engineering and to engineering designs to enhance manufacturability.
  • Support the planning, scheduling, and execution of manufacturing activities required for the assembly and integration of components into complex assemblies.
  • Review engineering specifications and drawings. Confer across functional areas to provide and obtain technical information. Able to assist design engineers and CAD/CAM/CMM programmers in resolving model changes for manufacturability. Provide redline feedback to engineering to correct or improve drawings and designs.
  • Work directly with systems, design, and test engineers to enhance manufacturability, assembly, and integration of components and sub-assemblies starting at initial model/drawing creation and continuing throughout the manufacturing phase.
  • Receive and route Non-Conformance Reports for disposition. Route Supplier Disposition Requests to engineering. Disposition Quality Notifications.
  • Create and maintain manufacturing bills of material, manufacturing work instructions, and routers.
  • Design shop aids to improve manufacturing processes.
  • Develop and maintain common manufacturing processes, standards, and documentation.
  • Provide input to material master requirements, including make versus buy requirements. Track material procurements to support manufacturing activities.
  • Applies technical knowledge to troubleshoot, analyze, investigate, and resolve assigned engineering problems.
  • Performs functional testing and troubleshooting of equipment and systems in assigned area by utilizing standard engineering and scientific principles.
  • Obtains and analyzes test data.
  • May be required to make technical presentations.
  • Maintains the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; four or more years of experience with a bachelors degree or two or more years of experience with a masters degree. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
  • Multi-disciplinary engineering knowledge and experience in mechanical, electrical, electronic systems is required.
  • Knowledge of DC brushed/brushless motors, control loop behavior including open and closed loop, h-bridge and 3 phase h-bridge, resolvers, and hall effect sensors desirable.
  • Experience with Printed Wiring Assemblies, Printed Circuit Boards, Line Replaceable Units, and electronic troubleshooting desirable.
  • Complex cable assembly design & manufacturing and IPC 610/620 certification or experience desirable.
  • Lab View experience desirable.
  • Must have a general understanding of engineering concepts, principles, and theory with technical experience demonstrating the application of those concepts while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
  • Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment and organize work assignments to meet established timetables. Good communication, computer, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required, as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain DoD Secret clearance required.

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955