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Associate Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Controls Design Engineer III

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Performs as a lead Design Engineer in the production of controls systems design drawings, sequence ... Associates degree in a technical field or 6-10 years of related work experience in building ...

Controls Design Engineer III

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Performs as a lead Design Engineer in the production of controls systems design drawings, sequence ... Associates degree in a technical field or 6-10 years of related work experience in building ...

Civil Design Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Role at a Glance TAIT is seeking a Civil Design Engineer to support land-development projects from preliminary layout through final plan production. You'll tackle grading, drainage analysis, street ...

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Associate Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate design engineer in California is $81,554.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $93,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAssociate Design EngineerDesign Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, supporting senior engineersLead or independent projects, more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace industriesUsed across similar industries, often with more complex tasks

The Associate Design Engineer typically holds an entry-level position supporting design tasks, while the Design Engineer has more experience and responsibility in leading projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Design Engineer often has additional certifications and a broader scope of work.

What are Associate Design Engineers?

Associate Design Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the development, planning, and creation of new products or systems. They work under the supervision of senior engineers, contributing to drafting designs, creating prototypes, and conducting tests to ensure functionality and quality. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documentation, using CAD software, and collaborating with other departments to ensure design specifications are met. This role provides foundational experience for a career in engineering design.

What are some common challenges faced by Associate Design Engineers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Associate Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new design software, understanding project specifications, and effectively communicating with cross-functional teams. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the technical complexity of projects or the pace of deliverables. To overcome these hurdles, new engineers should take advantage of mentorship opportunities, actively seek feedback, and participate in collaborative meetings to build confidence and technical proficiency. Regularly reviewing documentation and engaging with more experienced colleagues can also help accelerate learning and integration into the team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Design Engineer, you need a solid foundation in engineering principles, CAD design, and a relevant engineering degree such as mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit) and knowledge of relevant codes or certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and attention to detail set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills are crucial for creating accurate, efficient designs and collaborating effectively with teams to deliver successful engineering projects.
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 Associate Design Engineer jobs in California? For Associate Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Design Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Design Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Design Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Design Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,554 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Associate Substation Design Engineer

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc.

San Diego, CA

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About the Organization

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. (E2) is a professional services firm established in 1988 specializing in a full spectrum of engineering services including, project engineering and design, federal base operations and infrastructure support services, gas pipeline construction and inspection services, environmental consulting and remediation, and information technology services. At E2, we value safety, innovation and collaboration, and we are dedicated to excellence.

Overview

Responsible for the design of deliverables associated with substation design projects supporting one of our largest electric utility clients.  Protection & Control design deliverables include one-line & three-line diagrams, AC & DC elementary & logic diagrams, front & rear panel elevations and wiring, supervisory & control drawings, electrical vendor equipment wiring diagrams, complete cable schedule and bill of materials.  Substation Physical design deliverables include general arrangement drawings, electrical equipment plan & elevation drawings, above & below grade conduit & grounding drawings, relay house layout and complete bill of materials.

Responsibilities
  • Perform substation physical design activities including drawings, specifications, and bill of materials.
  • Perform careful self-checking activities to ensure the quality of work before it is presented to senior design reviewers.
  • Prepare computer assisted design and construction drawings of a complex nature with neatness and a minimum of errors.
  • Assist in the development of engineering calculations such as conduit and bus sizing, lighting & lightning analysis, and grounding grid analysis.
  • Ensure all designs conform to our client's and industry standards.
  • Communicate and coordinate project activities with senior engineer and/or project manager.
  • Utilize client and/or company information system to track and update design activities.
  • Assist senior engineers during job site meetings to gather scope of work.
  • Assist senior engineers in answering Request for Information (RFI) during project construction.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from an ABET approved college or university.
  • 0-3 years of experience working in substation design or similar with utility or consulting engineering firm
  • Proficient using Microsoft Office suite (e.g., Excel, Word, and Outlook).
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
  • Basic written and verbal communication skills.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certification preferred but not required.
  • Experience with substation design and construction standards for Southern California Edison.
  • Experience with AutoCAD and/or MicroStation.
Benefits

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. offers an excellent benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401(k) with employer match, paid time off.

Wage Data Per State Requirements

Salary range for this position is $75,000 - $90,000.   The starting salary will be commensurate with skill, education, experience, and working environment.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

Work Environment

This job operates in a professional office environment and uses standard office equipment such as computers and phones.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Ability to sit/stand for up to 8 hours per day.
  • Ability to move freely for up to 8 hours per day.
Travel

10%

Local Candidates onlyYesDrug Free Workplace

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc. is a Drug Free Workplace. After accepting an offer of employment, applicants may be required to undergo background checks, drug testing, and/or fit-for-duty physical examination.  Drug screens will include, but not be limited to, Amphetamines, Cocaine Metabolites, Marijuana Metabolites (THC), Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). As a federal contractor, E2 cannot permit employees in certain positions to use medical marijuana, even if prescribed by an authorized physician.

Solicitation

Please no solicitation of any kind from agencies, staffing, or recruiting firms.

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME