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Associate Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pavement Engineering Inc.

Be Seen First

Associate Engineer

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Pavement Engineering Inc. ("PEI") is a civil engineering company specializing in pavement management, design, materials testing, inspection and construction management with offices throughout ...

City of Chico

Associate Engineer

Chico, CA

$102K - $137K/yr

Performs responsible engineering, administrative engineering, and project management work in Public Works and related functions. Prepares plans and specifications for the design, construction, and ...

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All JobsAssociate Engineer JobsAssociate Engineer Jobs in California

Associate Engineer information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate 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 are Associate Engineers?

Associate Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who support more experienced engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various projects in their field. They typically work under supervision and assist with tasks such as drafting technical documents, conducting research, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Associate Engineers often gain practical experience and training to advance to higher-level engineering roles as they develop their skills.

What Is an Associate Engineer?

An associate engineer is a lower level engineer in many fields of engineering, including environmental, civil, and mechanical. The title denotes rank and experience level. As an associate engineer, your typical job duties involve analyzing project plans, designing products, maintaining equipment, closely following specifications and procedures, and writing reports. The specific duties vary widely depending upon your field and employer. This career usually requires at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering and obtaining a license in your state. Additional qualifications include relevant work experience, strong technical skills, and a familiarity with your specific industry.

What is the difference between Associate Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry-level certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; professional licensure (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and support roles in engineering teams; often in office or lab settingsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industrial or construction settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position across various industries like manufacturing, construction, and techDesign and development roles primarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

The main difference between an Associate Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while Mechanical Engineers have more experience and handle complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for advanced roles. The choice depends on your experience level and career goals within engineering fields.

What are some typical challenges Associate Engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to industry roles?

Associate Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to industry roles challenging due to differences in project scope, teamwork dynamics, and pace. In industry, you’ll likely work on larger, multi-disciplinary teams where effective communication and collaboration are crucial. Additionally, projects often have stricter deadlines and require adherence to established processes and standards, which may be less emphasized in academic settings. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from senior engineers can help ease this transition and set you up for success.

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

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate technical solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.
More about Associate Engineer jobs
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What cities in California are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
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Associate Engineer jobs near you

Structural Senior Associate Engineer

Cannon Corp.

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$101K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
You'll Come for a Job...But You'll Stay for an Exciting Career! Engineering and Designing Reliable, Responsive, Solutions.
SINCE 1976, CANNON has provided creative solutions to clients in the energy industry, water resources, public infrastructure, and commercial and residential development. We work hard. We play hard. We have fun.
JOIN CANNON as a STRUCTURAL SENIOR ASSOCIATE ENGINEER in our SAN LUIS OBISPO office. San Luis Obispo is on the beautiful central coast of California, has scenic beaches, is surrounded by the wine country, and offers endless recreational opportunities.
PROJECTS INCLUDE Military and Aerospace, Commercial and Industrial Structures, Piers and Sea Walls, Foundations for Tanks and Equipment, Support Structures, Structural Assessments and Evaluations
STRUCTURAL SENIOR ASSOCIATE ENGINEER JOB SUMMARY
The Structural Senior Associate Engineer will be responsible for independently executing complex design tasks. In this position you will be responsible for the design and detailing of structural components for building permit submittals. As a Structural Associate Engineer, you will mentor junior engineers, ensuring the quality and efficiency of project deliverables. The role also includes developing and maintaining strong relationships with both new and existing clients, collaborating closely with internal project managers, and participating in project scoping, scheduling, and budgeting.
STRUCTURAL SENIOR ASSOCIATE ENGINEER JOB DUTIES
  • Independently develops design plans for a variety of engineering projects and provides assistance to project level engineers in development of design plans for their tasks/projects.
  • Performs calculations for components of structures and structural frameworks.
  • Creates construction plans and details for structures conforming to Cannon standards.
  • Directs and provides mentoring to project level engineers.
  • Listens and communicates effectively with staff to maintain team atmosphere.
  • Coordinates with permitting agencies.
  • Manages multiple project engineering, budgets, and schedules.
  • Develops fee estimates and assists Director in proposal writing.
  • Maintains and manages strong relationships with ongoing clients.
  • Participates in professional and community activities that promote growth.

Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Architectural or Civil Engineering.
  • 8+ years of experience in structural analysis, design, and detailing of buildings and structures.
  • Highly proficient knowledge of California Building Code with the ability to convey that knowledge to others.
  • Design experience in timber, concrete, steel, and masonry structural building systems.
  • High proficiency with design tools like Revit, CAD, Bluebeam, ETABS, Risa.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD is required.
  • California PE license required. California SE license preferred.

WE OFFER competitive salaries, relocation assistance, excellent benefits package, remote work flexibility, and an active and positive team building, work environment.
Cannon is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status such as race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age.
Salary Description
$101,292 - $151,938

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