1

Associate Engineer Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer L1

Atwater, CA · On-site

$104K - $116K/yr

Systems Test Engineer shall be responsible for the evaluation of systems and or features, as well as developing and maintaining evaluation methods. Test Engineers shall manage and execute test ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Merced, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

... all engineers are trained as first responders and attend additional training (BECC-Basic ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

Fire Lieutenant

Livingston, CA · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Direct supervision over Fire Apparatus Engineers, Firefighters, and extra-help or volunteer ... Associate degree or higher in Fire Technology, Fire Science, Public Administration, or a related ...

INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST

Merced, CA · On-site

$100K - $126K/yr

... passion for science and engineering to the next level. CRYPTOLOGIC TECHNICIAN NETWORKS Use ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

Specifically, builders may be called upon to: * Assist engineers with construction plans ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

Work closely with engineers, production teams, and other technicians to address complex issues and ... While performing the essential functions of this job, the associate: * Must be able to lift, push ...

Work closely with engineers, production teams, and other technicians to address complex issues and ... While performing the essential functions of this job, the associate: * Must be able to lift, push ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Engineer information

See Merced, CA salary details

$43.8K

$87.3K

$139.4K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Merced, CA is $87,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,200.00 and $100,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate engineer?

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Merced, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Merced, CA?

For Associate Engineer jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Associate Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,266 per year, or $42 per hour.

Test Engineer L1

Transdev

Atwater, CA • On-site

$104K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago


Transdev North America rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 263 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 98 rated public transport


Job description

Overview:

Systems Test Engineer shall be responsible for the evaluation of systems and or features, as well as developing and maintaining evaluation methods. Test Engineers shall manage and execute test programs, analyze and interpret results, communicate results and findings. Test Engineer shall also develop new test methods to improve the quality and scalability of those methods.

Transdev is proud to offer:

• Competitive compensation package of minimum $104,000 – maximum $116,480

Benefits include:

• Vacation: minimum of two (2) weeks

• Sick days: 5 days

• Holidays: 6 days

• Other standard benefits: 401(k) retirement plan, medical, dental and vision, life insurance, short-term disability, voluntary long-term disability.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Decompose system requirements and consequently design test plans and verification strategies that give Waymo the necessary evidence to release the product / service
  • Improve the quality and coverage of the verification of a system
  • Build new processes that improve organization, traceability and clarity
  • Develop new tools that improve the repeatability, efficiency or completeness of testing
  • Create new test frameworks and capabilities, including simulation based, hardware in the loop, or other methods
  • Identify missing or untestable requirements, gaps in design and incomplete implementation
  • Develop novel approaches to evaluate the system
  • Develop and improve processes that increase operational efficiency of test execution
  • Debug and resolve test-related failures, contribute to the root cause analysis of system-related failures
  • Analyze and interpret results
  • Communicate results and test status. Build dashboards and other visualizations within existing toolsets to make it easier for all stakeholders to interpret test results.
  • Provide technical guidance to the test team comprised of Test Conductors, Vehicle Operators, Test Assistants
  • Lead the execution of vehicle and/or functional and performance test workstreams. (Define project priorities, tasks and coordinate activities, deliverables, schedules, and delegate work to support staff when necessary/appropriate.)
  • Apply Waymo policies, procedures, standards, code of conduct throughout -including taking personal responsibility for the safety of self and others during testing
  • Support other general structured testing as needed
  • All other duties as assigned

Required Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's Degree in engineering or related technical field (ME, EE, CS, Robotics, Controls, Aerospace
  • 4+ years systems test experience
  • Experience with system engineering principles such as defining requirements and formal verification and validation methods
  • Test scripting understanding/execution for in-vehicle test automation (including C/C++, Python, Matlab/Simulink)
  • Demonstrated ability to interact with functional and technical counterparts to ensure system tests meet all required specifications
  • Demonstrated communications skills and project management skills

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

  • In-depth knowledge of vehicle systems and subsystems
  • Ability to travel (> 20%) and ability to travel on short notice
  • Able to spend a full day outside, in variable weather conditions
  • Able to safely maneuver around autonomous-capable vehicles
  • Flexibility with work hours during busy test periods (including weekend and AM or PM shifts
  • Demonstrate concise and effective communication both verbally and in writing
  • Possess operational skills and be knowledgeable with systems engineering processes
  • Be organized, detail oriented and a fast learner
  • Work independently in ambiguous conditions
  • Thrive in a fast-paced environment

Physical Requirements:

  • Required to talk, listen, and hear;
  • Frequently required to use repetitive hand motion, hands to finger, handle or feel, and to sit, stand, walk, reach, bend, regularly push, pull and lift up to 50 pounds;
  • Occasionally climb stairs and/or ladders;
  • Must use close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus; and
  • Most work is accomplished outdoors.

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 as pursuant to the Americans with Disability Act

Pre-Employment Requirements:

  • All Transdev employees must satisfactorily complete a pre-employment drug screen and background check. Safety Sensitive Positions will also be subject to a physical screening
  • Transdev maintains a Drug Free Workplace and may require participation in a random drug screening program.
  • Transdev reserves the right to perform ongoing background checks for all employees except in states where this is prohibited by state law. Transdev will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.
  • Employees must maintain an acceptable Driving Record suitable to being approved to drive as part of their regular duties. Records are monitored on an ongoing or regular basis pursuant to local state law.
  • Ability to qualify for an Autonomous Vehicle Tester (AVT) license in states and positions where it’s required
  • If based in the United States, applicants must be eligible to work in the US without restrictions for any employer at any time as required by the USCIS.

Transdev is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Applicants will be considered based on qualifications and without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability or other legally protected status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.

The job duties, responsibilities, skills, and requirements listed in this job description are representative only and not an exhaustive list that an employee may be required to perform. Transdev reserves the right to revise this job description at any time.

Drug-free workplace

If based in the United States, applicants must be eligible to work in U.S. without restrictions for any employer at any time; be able to pass a drug screen and background check.

California applicants: Please Click Here for CA Employee Privacy Policy.

Job Category: Autonomous Vehicles

Job Type: Full Time

Req ID: 6321

Pay Group: A3L

Cost Center: 563

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

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 upon request.

Transdev is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or other legally protected status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.

Drug-free workplace

If based in the United States, applicants must be eligible to work in U.S. without restrictions for any employer at any time; be able to pass a drug screen and background check.

California applicants: Please Click Here for CA Employee Privacy Policy.

About Transdev

Cities, counties, airports, companies, and universities across the U.S. contract with Transdev to operate their transportation systems, maintain their vehicle and fleets, and deliver on mobility solutions. Transdev U.S. employs a team of 32,000 across 400 locations while maintaining more than 17,000 vehicles.

Part of a global company, Transdev is a leader in mobility with operations in 19 countries, proudly operated by 110,000 team members from around the world. As an operator and global integrator of mobility, we are driven by our purpose. Transdev – the mobility company – empowers the freedom to move every day thank to safe, reliable, and innovative solutions that serve the common good. Find out more at http://www.TransdevNA.com or watch an overview video.


What Transdev North America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom