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Associate Engineer Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Associate Engineer - $102,922.98 - $137,918.14 Annually DOQ * Civil Engineer - $110,836.55 - $148,522.19 Annually DOQ About the Opportunity The City of Ventura is seeking an Engineer - Water ...

Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Ventura, CA · On-site

$110K - $148K/yr

Associate Engineer - $102,922.98 - $137,918.14 Annually DOQ * Civil Engineer - $110,836.55 - $148,522.19 Annually DOQ About the Opportunity The City of Ventura is seeking an Engineer - Water ...

Associate Project Engineer Reporting To: Engineering, Project Engineering Work Schedule: Hybrid - Santa Barbara, CA Moog's Santa Barbara Operations in Goleta, California, is growing-and we're looking ...

Associate Project Engineer Work Schedule: Onsite - Santa Barbara, CA Moog's Santa Barbara Operations in Goleta, California, is growing-and we're looking for Associate Project Engineer. These ...

Associate Project Engineer Work Schedule: Onsite - Santa Barbara, CA Moog's Santa Barbara Operations in Goleta, California, is growing-and we're looking for Associate Project Engineer. These ...

As an Associate Software Engineer at impact.com, you will be a key contributor to one of our agile engineering squads, helping to develop, test, and maintain the software that powers our industry ...

As an Associate QA Engineer at impact.com, you will be responsible for understanding, testing and approving quality features through developing and executing comprehensive test plans. You will be ...

As an Associate QA Engineer at impact.com, you will be responsible for understanding, testing and approving quality features through developing and executing comprehensive test plans. You will be ...

As an Associate QA Engineer at impact.com, you will be responsible for understanding, testing and approving quality features through developing and executing comprehensive test plans. You will be ...

Process Engineer Avantor is seeking a Project Engineer to support the execution of engineering ... Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to ...

Process Engineer Avantor is seeking a Project Engineer to support the execution of engineering ... Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to ...

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Associate Engineer information

See Santa Barbara, CA salary details

$46.2K

$91.9K

$146.9K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Santa Barbara, CA is $91,948.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,900.00 and $105,700.00 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 Santa Barbara, CA?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Santa Barbara, CA are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Santa Barbara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,948 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Cityofventura

Ventura, CA

$110K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Applications are accepted exclusively through the City of Ventura Career Site:
www.cityofventura.ca.gov/jobs. Submissions through other websites or methods will not be accepted.

Pay & Benefits

Whether you're starting your career journey or seeking new opportunities, we welcome all and offer:

  • Competitivepayandbenefits
  • Strong supportfor professional development
  • Vacation & Holiday Compensation
  • Deferred Compensation
  • CalPERS Retirement
  • Tuition Reimbursement & Bilingual Pay

Salary Range (DOQ):

  • Assistant Engineer - $93,242.66 - $124,946.43 Annually DOQ
  • Associate Engineer - $102,922.98 - $137,918.14 Annually DOQ
  • Civil Engineer - $110,836.55 - $148,522.19 Annually DOQ

About the Opportunity

The City of Ventura is seeking an Engineer - Water/Wastewater to join the Public Works Department. In this role, you will support the planning, design, and delivery of capital improvement projects that maintain and enhance Ventura's essential infrastructure. You will collaborate with engineers, consultants, contractors, and City staff throughout the planning, design, and construction of water and wastewater projects.

The position will involve work related to a variety of water and wastewater infrastructure, including pump and lift stations, storage reservoirs, treatment facilities and processes, water distribution and wastewater collection systems, pipelines (including force and gravity mains), and pump/motor controls and SCADA systems. You will also use engineering design, document management, and project management tools such as Civil 3D, SharePoint, Trimble Unity Construct, and Workday.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Plan, design, and support the delivery of water and wastewater Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs), including pipelines, pump stations, lift stations, reservoirs, and treatment facilities.
  • Prepare and review design reports, plans, specifications, estimates, and contracts for public works and utility projects.
  • Serve as project manager or assistant project manager, monitoring scope, budget, and schedule through planning, design, and construction phases.
  • Coordinate project permits, agreements, and activities with other departments, contractors, and government agencies.
  • Conduct specialized technical studies, investigations, and research to support project design and delivery.
  • Supervise and provide guidance to paraprofessional staff or consultants, as assigned.
  • Respond to inquiries from residents, businesses, and stakeholders regarding public works and utility projects.
  • Provide technical support to Ventura Water operations staff as needed.
  • Collaborate with senior engineers while gaining experience toward professional licensure.

Minimum Qualifications - Required

Education and Experience:

A combination of training, education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor s degree in Civil, Structural, Traffic or Transportation Engineering, or a related field, and depending on assignment, qualifying experience as described below, in civil, traffic, construction, transportation engineering, water resource planning, or architectural/structural plans review or structural design are required, as follows:
Assistant Engineer: One year of professional engineering experience in the assigned area. A California Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate and two years of college may substitute for the bachelor's degree. A California Engineering-in-Training certificate is highly desirable.
Associate Engineer: Three years of professional engineering experience in the assigned area, preferably with a public agency, OR two years of experience equivalent to that of an Assistant Engineer with the City of Ventura are required. A California Engineering-in-Training certificate is highly desirable.
Civil Engineer: Three years of professional engineering experience in the assigned area, preferably with a public agency. Registration as a California Civil Engineer is required at time of appointment.

License:

Depending on assignment, possession of a valid California Class C driver's license may be required.
Certificates:

Assistant/Associate Engineer: A California "Engineer in Training" (EIT) certificate is highly desirable.
Civil Engineer: Registration as a California Civil Engineer is required at time of appointment.


About the Department

The City of Ventura's Public Works Department plays a central role in building, maintaining, and protecting the community's infrastructure and natural resources. Accredited by the American Public Works Association (APWA) since 2014, the department applies industry best practices and forward-thinking strategies to deliver high-quality projects that support safety, sustainability, and long-term community resilience.

The department is organized into five divisions that manage the city's infrastructure, operations, and public services. Together, these divisions provide engineering, construction, transportation, environmental sustainability, fleet and facilities, and property management services that support the community's growth, connectivity, and quality of life.

How to Apply & Selection Process

Submit your online City job application and supplemental questionnaire by the filing deadline. Resumes may be attached but will not replace a completed application or supplemental questionnaire. All communication regarding your application will be via email, so please check your inbox regularly and ensure your contact information is current.

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a continuous basis. Apply today!

This recruitment is flexibly staffed and may be filled at the Assistant Engineer, Associate Engineer, or Civil Engineer level based on the City's needs and the qualifications of the selected candidate. Candidates will be evaluated based on their education, professional engineering experience, licenses/certifications, and overall qualifications. Learn more about the distinguishing characteristics of the Assistant, Associate, and Civil Engineer levels on the job description here.

While the Eligibility List for this classification may be used to fill other regular vacancies at the discretion of the City, this recruitment is specifically intended to fill the Engineer position within the Public Works Department. Candidates selected from the eligibility list will be considered for assignment to this department based on departmental needs and the candidate's qualifications and experience.

Additional Information

To learn more about the City's hiring process, visit the City of Ventura Hiring Process page.

Questions? Contact the Recruitment Team:
recruitment@cityofventura.ca.gov

(805) 654-7802

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need an accommodation in a selection process, please notify the Human Resources Department in writing by the final filing date of the position you are interested in. The Human Resources address is: 501 Poli Street, Room 210, Ventura, CA 93001, (805) 654-7853, e-mail: recruitment@cityofventura.ca.gov.

The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to attract qualified applicants from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create an environment that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our workforce. We welcome you to join our team!