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Associate Engineer Jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Water Resources Department, Administrative Division has an exciting opportunity for a Utility Associate Civil Engineer. The position, under direction, will perform professional engineering work ...

Associate, Software Engineer Job Code: 39132 Job Location: Job Schedule: 9/80:Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off * Apply computer ...

Associate, Software Engineering Job Code: 38768 Job Location: Yorba Linda, CA Job Schedule: 9/80:Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off

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Associate Engineer information

See Rancho Cucamonga, CA salary details

$42.4K

$84.4K

$134.9K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Rancho Cucamonga, CA is $84,447.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,900.00 and $97,100.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA? For Associate Engineer jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rancho Cucamonga, CA are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Rancho Cucamonga, CA with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Rancho Cucamonga, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,447 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Associate Dean, Engineering Research and Industry Engagement

CalPolyPomona

Pomona, CA

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Associate Dean, Engineering Research and Industry Engagement

Apply now Job no: 557940
Work type: Management (MPP)
Location: Pomona
Categories: MPP, Administrative, At-Will, Full Time, On-site (work in-person at business location)

Associate Dean, Engineering Research and Industry Engagement 
College of Engineering 
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona 

The College of Engineering at Cal Poly Pomona invites applications for the full-time management position of Associate Dean, Engineering Research and Industry Engagement (MPP III). 

Cal Poly Pomona is recognized as one of the most diverse regional universities in the Western United States and offers an affordable, life-changing education. Less than 30 miles east of Los Angeles, the campus enjoys the excitement of a diverse metropolitan area while retaining the serenity of a foothill community. As a polytechnic university, Cal Poly Pomona utilizes a technology-enhanced, learn-by-doing approach to education. Students enjoy endless opportunities for involvement in a vibrant and diverse community. As a federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, Cal Poly Pomona is nationally recognized for advancing student success and social mobility. 

The College 

The mission of the College of Engineering is to produce well-qualified engineering graduates who are ready for immediate and productive entry into the workforce or for graduate study. The College provides practice-oriented education grounded in sound engineering principles while emphasizing teamwork, communication, innovation, and leadership in a global society. 

The College serves approximately 8,000 undergraduate and graduate students across seven departments and offers  twelve Bachelor of Science degree programs in Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering and Management, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electromechanical Systems Technology, and Electronic Systems Engineering Technology. Graduate programs include Master of Science degrees in Aerospace Engineering , Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Management, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Systems Engineering. Undergraduate programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) or Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission (ETAC) of ABET. 

The College of Engineering is committed to strengthening its research enterprise, expanding industry and government partnerships, and advancing inclusive excellence in support of student and faculty success. 

The Position 

The Associate Dean for Research and Industry Engagement (AD/RIE) works closely with the Dean to provide vision, leadership, and strategic direction to advance the College's research agenda and cultivate productive partnerships with industry, government, and academic collaborators. The Associate Dean supports faculty recruitment, development, and research advancement; oversees research-related facilities and technical staff; and represents the College in internal and external forums. 

The Associate Dean reports directly to the Dean of the College of Engineering and collaborates with College leadership, department chairs, faculty, staff, Academic Affairs, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, and other internal and external stakeholders to achieve the College's strategic goals. 

Key Responsibilities 

Research Leadership 

  • Partner with faculty to shape, strengthen, and submit competitive research proposals that advance scholarly impact and external funding success. 

  • Serve as a strategic liaison between the College and key research partners, including the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, the Cal Poly Pomona Foundation, and the Office of Undergraduate Research. 

  • Cultivate collaborative, interdisciplinary grant activity within the College and across campus to expand undergraduate and graduate research opportunities. 

  • Proactively identify and promote internal and external funding opportunities aligned with faculty expertise, emerging research areas, and College priorities. 

  • Design and launch a Dean's Research Seminar Series that showcases faculty scholarship, fosters connection, and elevates the College's research profile. 

  • Collaborate closely with the College senior budget analyst to support responsible stewardship of grant funds and sustainable research growth. 

Industry and Government Engagement 

  • Build strong, forwardlooking partnerships with government organizations, industry partners, and alumni, to deepen engagement. 

  • Collaborate closely with the Dean, department chairs, college development officers, and career services to cultivate strategic partnerships that advance research, workforce development, and student success 

  • Expand sponsored research, crosssector collaboration, and experiential learning opportunities in partnership with industry and government stakeholders. 

Technical Staff Supervision 

  • Serve as  manager for approximately nine equipment technicians who support teaching and research laboratories. 

  • Maintain position descriptions; hire and evaluate technical staff; manage professional development; oversee absence management; and liaise with Human Resources on personnel matters. 

  • Ensure the safe operation, maintenance, and modernization of laboratory equipment and research infrastructure. 

Technology, Facilities and Space Planning 

  • Collaborate with Facilities, Information Technology, and campus partners to oversee the renovation, repurposing, and modernization of instructional and research spaces, including technologyenabled environments and high-performance computing infrastructure. 

  • Provide strategic direction on the allocation of physical and technologysupported space resources to departments, faculty researchers, and student groups. 

  • Work with department chairs and stakeholders to assess needs and recommend adjustments to ensure effective and equitable space utilization. 

Internal and External Relations  

  • Participate in the Dean's Leadership Team, Dean's Council, and other campus and college committees. 

  • Represent the College in systemwide and external engineering research leadership groups. 

  • Engage regularly with Academic Affairs and Faculty Affairs leadership regarding research and faculty advancement initiatives. 

The incumbent may drive on university business approximately once per month to attend conferences and off-campus events. 

Required Qualifications 

  • Earned Ph.D. in Engineering or a closely related field from an accredited institution. 

  • Must have achieved tenure or have a record to support tenure based on effective teaching, scholarship, and service that merits appointment at the full professor level in the College of Engineering. 

  • Minimum of two years of leadership experience (e.g., department chair, associate chair, center director, interim leadership positions, or major committee chair). 

  • Knowledge of government and industrial funding sources and a successful record of research funding. 

  • Demonstrated ability to lead strategic initiatives, build collaborative teams, and respond effectively to deadlines. 

  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Knowledge of and experience in fiscal management and compliance with federal regulations and oversight of grants and contracts. 

  • Knowledge and experience in managing intellectual property rights and entrepreneurial opportunities, including a record of entrepreneurial attainment.  

  • Experience in planning, implementing, and sustaining comprehensive research centers or programs. 

  • Research funding from major federal agencies such as NSF, DOE, and DOD. 

  • Experience in partnering with industry and business. 

  • Experience with faculty professional development and mentoring. 

  • A demonstrated commitment to the recruitment and retention of a culturally diverse and talented faculty and student body. 

  • Experience working with students from varied educational backgrounds, including firstgeneration college students. 

Applications 

The Search Committee will begin reviewing candidates immediately and continue until the position is filled. Priority consideration will be given to materials received by August 7, 2026. 

To apply, a candidate should submit: 

  1. A letter of intent addressing how the candidate's experiences match the position requirements and outlining a vision for advancing research and industry engagement in the College; and 

  1. A current curriculum vitae

References will not be contacted without the prior knowledge and approval of the candidate, and at a later stage in the search. 

The salary range for this position is $173,520-$185,004 annually. More information about benefits is available through the California State University system. 

This is a full-time, on-site MPP III position in the College of Engineering.

Out of State Work

The California State University (CSU) system is a network of twenty-three public universities providing access to a quality education through the support of California taxpayers. Part of CSU's mission is to prepare educated, responsible individuals to contribute to California's schools, economy, culture, and future. As an agency of the State of California, the CSU's business operations almost exclusively reside within California.   The CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy prohibits hiring employees to perform CSU-related work outside California. For more information, go to the CSU Out-of-State Employment Policy. 

Background Check

Cal Poly Pomona will make a conditional offer of employment to final job candidates, pending the satisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check). The conditional offer of employment may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. In determining the suitability of the candidate for the position, Cal Poly Pomona will give an individualized assessment to any information that the applicant submits for consideration regarding the criminal conviction history such as the nature, gravity and recency of the conviction, the candidate's conduct, performance or rehabilitation efforts since the conviction and the nature of the job applied for. For more information, go to the CSU Background Check Policy.

Education Code 89521 Requirements
Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must also sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant's current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct.

CSU Classification Salary Range

This position is part of the Management Personnel Plan bargaining unit. The CSU Classification Standards for this position are located on the CSU Classification Standards website. The CSU Salary Schedule is located on the CSU Salary Schedule website. Please refer to the anticipated hiring range for the appropriate salary rate for this particular position.

Employment Eligibility Verification

Cal Poly Pomona hires only individuals lawfully authorized to work in the United States. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.  For more information, go to the Acceptable I-9 website. 

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