1

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

ASSOCIATE ENGINEER II (PE-2)

Walnut, CA · On-site

$94.86 - $115.94/hr

ASSOCIATE ENGINEER II (PE-2) Salary DOE - Starting at $105,401.83 Department Engineering Job Type Full Time Location Walnut, CA JOB SUMMARY Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive ...

ASSOCIATE ENGINEER I (PE-1)

Walnut, CA · On-site

$92.64 - $113.23/hr

ASSOCIATE ENGINEER I (PE-1) Salary DOE - Starting at $102,939.24 Department Engineering Job Type Full Time Location Walnut, CA JOB SUMMARY Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive ...

Utility Associate Civil Engineer

Pomona, CA · On-site

$120K - $146K/yr

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Sep 5, 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 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 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 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.

How much does an associate engineer get paid?

An associate engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and additional responsibilities.

What can I do with an associate engineer's degree in engineering?

An associate engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles such as technician, assistant engineer, or project support staff. These positions often involve tasks like drafting, testing, data analysis, and using tools like CAD software, with opportunities for on-the-job training and certification to advance in engineering fields.

What is the salary of an associate engineer?

The salary of an associate engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on factors such as industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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 job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Rancho Cucamonga, CA 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,447 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

$60.31 - $79.20/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Develop, design, and implement cathodic protection measures.

  • Perform on-site assessments of pipelines, water treatment facilities, and related infrastructure to support asset management programs.

  • Utilize enterprise GIS to gather, manage, and analyze assessment data.


Job description

At the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, we deliver reliable water to a region with 19 million people—and to accomplish this, we rely on a team of talented employees: innovators, problem-solvers, and collaborators who make it all possible.  

There is currently1 opening for the Associate Engineer role locatedat our Weymouth location. 

This recruitment may result in an eligibility list*. 

In this role, you’ll serve as an Associate Engineer, utilizing technical expertise to protect critical water infrastructure. You’ll develop, design, and implement cathodic protection measures; perform on-site condition assessments of pipelines and treatment facilities; and utilize enterprise GIS to manage data and drive asset management programs. This is an opportunity to apply your knowledge of corrosion control, ensure industry standards are met, and play a key role in safeguarding the region's water systems.

What You’ll Do

  • Develop, design, and implement cathodic protection measures.
  • Collaborate with design engineers, operations personnel, and external agencies to ensure project execution and asset management.
  • Perform on-site assessments of pipelines, water treatment facilities, and related water infrastructure to support asset management programs.
  • Utilize an enterprise geographical information system (GIS) to gather, manage, and analyze assessment data.

This job announcement has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this classification / job.


To view the full job description, click here: Associate Engineer

Schedule: 4/10. Start times no earlier than 6 AM and end times no later than 6PM.

Hybrid: Metropolitan’s current practice in this position is a hybrid work schedule. This typically includes two days a week in person and the other days remote. This is subject to change dependent on organizational needs. In addition, a telework policy is scheduled for negotiations and once completed and implemented, will provide final direction on the hybrid schedule.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field and four years of relevant experience, of which two years must have been at the Assistant Engineer II level;

or

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field and two years of relevant experience which must have been at the Assistant Engineer II level.

Relevant Experience is defined as: a combination of experience designing cathodic protection systems for pipelines, treatment facilities, or other critical infrastructure; and corrosion control testing and pipeline condition assessment.

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

Employees in this position may be required to obtain and maintain the following certifications, licensing and registrations:

License(s): Valid California Class C Driver’s License or equivalent that allows you to drive during your employment is required at time of application.

BENEFITS

• Competitive compensation
• Excellent medical, dental, life, vision plans.
• Deferred compensation in the form of a 401(k) plan (with matching contribution) and a 457 plan.
• Retirement benefits under the California Public Employees' Retirement System
• Tuition reimbursement
• Training and advancement opportunities
• Public transportation reimbursements

• Hub of public transportation: rail, subway, buses, and taxis

For more information on MWD benefits, please use the following link: Benefits Regular FT PT Employees Represented

ABOUT MWD

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is a state-established cooperative that, along with its 26 cities and retail suppliers, provides water for 19 million people in six counties. The district imports water from the Colorado River and Northern California to supplement local supplies, and helps its members to develop increased water conservation, recycling, storage and other resource-management programs.

Metropolitan is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace for all employees.
Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process, please reach out to the Human Resources Office at (213) 217-7738 or email jobs@mwdh2o.com.  

In accordance with applicable laws, we provide religious accommodations for sincerely held religious beliefs, practices, and observances that conflict with work requirements. If you require a religious accommodation during the application, interview, or employment process, please reach out to the EEO Office at (213) 217-5858 or eeooffice@mwdh2o.com. Requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Application Filing Period: Closes at 11:59 pm PT on the date stated in the job announcement. However, it may close prior to the filing end date if sufficient applications have been received. If sufficient applications have not been received, then the filing period end date may be extended.

Eligibility List*: An eligibility list is a list of qualified candidates created when a job posting states that one will be established.

Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications listed in the original posting and successfully pass all stages of the recruitment process—but are not selected for the initial vacancy—may be placed on this list for future openings.

The list may be used to invite candidates to participate in a selection interview for a future vacancy in the same classification / title (if there is one). The duration of the list depends on the applicable bargaining unit.

Qualifying Experience: Your resume must at a minimum include the month and year you began and ended employment, name of the organization, your title, and a brief description of your experience. If your employment was part-time, make sure you identify it on your resume next to the month/year.

Sponsorship: Applicants for employment with The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California must have work authorization that does not now or in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the United States (i.e., H1-B or other employment-based immigration case).

#LI-Hybrid