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Associate Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Transdev

Test Engineer Associate

Atwater, CA · On-site

$72K - $95K/yr

Systems Test Engineer Associate Shall be responsible for the evaluation of software or hardware systems that meet requirements and specifications through various testing methods. Test Engineers shall ...

Transdev

Test Engineer Associate

Atwater, CA

$72K - $95K/yr

Systems Test Engineer Associate Shall be responsible for the evaluation of software or hardware systems that meet requirements and specifications through various testing methods. Test Engineers shall ...

AGE Solutions

Systems Engineer

Tracy, CA · Hybrid

$105K/yr

The Systems Engineer is responsible for the provisioning, configuration, operation, and maintenance ... Azure Administrator Associate * NetApp Certified Data Administrator (ONTAP) * NetApp Certified ...

AGE solutions

Systems Engineer

Tracy, CA · Hybrid

$10/hr

The Systems Engineer is responsible for the provisioning, configuration, operation, and maintenance ... Azure Administrator Associate * NetApp Certified Data Administrator (ONTAP) * NetApp Certified ...

Apply Early

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing ... As an E Tech associate, youcan unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing ... As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

sunopta

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA

$88K - $113K/yr

Bachelor's or Associate degree in Industrial Controls, Electronics, Engineering, Technology or related disciplines or training on Allen Bradley machine controls (PLC's/VFD's). * Certification or ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing ... As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and ...

Apply Early

sunopta

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

Bachelor's or Associate degree in Industrial Controls, Electronics, Engineering, Technology or related disciplines or training on Allen Bradley machine controls (PLC's/VFD's). * Certification or ...

SunOpta

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Bachelor's or Associate degree in Industrial Controls, Electronics, Engineering, Technology or related disciplines or training on Allen Bradley machine controls (PLC's/VFD's). * Certification or ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Engineer JobsAssociate Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA

Associate Engineer information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$43.8K

$87.2K

$139.3K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Modesto, CA is $87,182.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $100,200.00 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects and teams.

What can you do with an Associate in engineering?

An associate degree in engineering prepares individuals for technical roles such as engineering technician, CAD drafter, or quality control inspector. These positions often involve supporting engineering projects, using tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB, and may require certification or on-the-job training to develop specialized 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 work of an Associate engineer?

An Associate Engineer is an entry-level engineering professional responsible for assisting in the design, development, testing, and implementation of engineering projects. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, utilize tools like CAD software, and may need relevant certifications or technical skills to perform tasks effectively.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most associate engineers do not earn this level of salary, senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, petroleum, or aerospace engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, or in high-demand industries. Achieving this income typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or entrepreneurial ventures.

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
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA? For Associate Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Associate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Modesto, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 51% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,182 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Engineer l, Automation and Controls

Engineer l, Automation and Controls

Novate Solutions Inc

Livermore, CA • On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Novate Solutions, Inc. is an Industrial Technology Services firm with 20+ years of providing professional engineering design, turnkey project implementation, and support services for the technology that runs industrial production facilities. Our clients are large scale industrial facilities that rely on us for our expertise and high-quality implementation of process control systems, information software, instrumentation, industrial networks, SCADA, measurement, inspection, motion, and state-of-the-art Industry 4.0 technologies.
Novate is currently looking for an Engineer l, Automation and Controls to join our Automation Team at our location in Livermore, CA. This individual must have the ability to be client facing, have general awareness of multiple industrial environments, provide support initiative and be extremely organized. The ideal individual is curious with an investigative mindset, wants to resolve complex issues and problems, is a team player and works well under pressure in a fast-paced environment. If you are looking for a role that will provide exciting challenges with an opportunity for continuous learning from industry veterans, Novate Solutions is interested in you.
To be successful in this role, the ideal individual must:
  • Be an effective communicator both verbally and in writing.
  • Be a self-starter, driven to take initiative and is highly self-motivated.
  • Be well organized with attention to detail and time management skills.
  • Have the ability to work independently.

Responsibilities:
  • Conceptualize, detail, and implement control systems for industrial processes.
  • Provide PAC/PLC and HMI/SCADA configuration and programming.
  • Develop controls system documentation ex. Sequence of Operations, Factory Acceptance Test and Site Acceptance Test.
  • Perform Factory and Site commissioning (FAT/SAT).
  • Lead multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Manage and delegate automation engineering tasks accurately, on schedule and on budget.
  • Provide engineering support and expertise as needed to support automation systems developed in house as well as developed by others.

Requirements
Required Skills and Experience:
  • Minimum seven (7) years' experience of verifiable PAC/PLC and SCADA/DCS programming to deliver turnkey automation solutions to industrial applications.
  • Proficient PLC/PAC programming: Rockwell Automation, Studio 5000.
  • Proficient SCADA programming:
    • Inductive Automation, Ignition Vision platform
    • Factory Talk View SE
  • Ability to type 35+ WPM corrected.
  • Ability to travel regionally or out of state.

Additional Skills that are Desirable:
  • Experience in operation or engineering work within large scale industry (food, semi-conductor, petro-chemical, biotech, mining, etc.)
  • Exposure to multiple SCADA platforms: Aveva System Platform (Wonderware) InduSoft.
  • Database scripting, SQL query generation for MS SQL, MySQL or Oracle.
  • Exposure and experience with multiple PLC manufacturers and platforms.
  • AutoCAD experience in the controls engineering field.
  • C++/C# development and troubleshooting.
  • Electrical design experience
  • Basic understanding of Industrial Ethernet networks.
  • Registered Professional Engineer.
  • ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
  • Project management experience.

Education:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited program or equivalent combination of education and industry experience.
License/Certifications:
  • Valid CA driver's license
  • California Professional Engineer (PE)

Competencies:
  • Communication
  • Results Driven
  • Critical Thinking
  • Work Independently

Physical Demands:
  • The ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching and crawling into confined spaces.
  • Climb stairs and ladders to access automation equipment, instrumentation and controls.

Travel Requirement:
  • Ability to travel frequently regionally and out of state. Travel up to 25%.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance:
  • Ability to pass a DOD security level background check.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent U.S. Resident.

Benefits
  • Paid vacation
  • 401(k)
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Health and vision insurance
  • HRA
  • Wellness benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Identity theft protection

Growth opportunity ladder at Novate Solutions, Inc. (sub-discipline Automation & Controls)
  • Senior Engineer, ll
  • Senior Engineer, l
  • Engineer, lV
  • Engineer, III
  • Engineer, II
  • Engineer, I
  • Associate Engineer lV
  • Associate Engineer lll
  • Associate Engineer l
  • Associate Engineer l

Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary Description
$110,000 - $120,000

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