1

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

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 ...

As a Senior Associate, Software Engineer (Verification), you will be trusted to drive software design, development, and verification activitiesYou will be trusted to drive the design, execution ...

Principal FPGA Engineer II

Goleta, CA · On-site

$150K - $183K/yr

As a Principal, FPGA Engineer II supporting Research & Development of Alcon's Surgical ... Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events ...

Principal FPGA Engineer II

Goleta, CA · On-site

$149K - $183K/yr

As a Principal, FPGA Engineer II supporting Research & Development of Alcon's Surgical ... Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events ...

Principal FPGA Engineer II

Goleta, CA · On-site

$131 - $169/hr

Principal, FPGA Engineer II supporting Research & Development of Alcon's Surgical Instrumentation ... Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events ...

Principal FPGA Image Pipeline Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$149K - $183K/yr

Programming embedded processors using C language. * Organize weekly stand-up meeting and be the ... Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events ...

Programming embedded processors using C language. * Organize weekly stand-up meeting and be the ... Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events ...

Principal FPGA Image Pipeline Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$150K - $183K/yr

Programming embedded processors using C language. * Organize weekly stand-up meeting and be the ... Our benefits offerings are designed to support associates and their families across key life events ...

Program TV's and perform general housekeeping and engineering-related inventory duties. Use the ... We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and ...

Program TV's and perform general housekeeping and engineering-related inventory duties. Use the ... We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and ...

Program TV's and perform general housekeeping and engineering-related inventory duties. Use the ... We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and ...

Showing results 21-40

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 16, 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.

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Avantor rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

The Opportunity:Process Engineer

Avantor is seeking a Project Engineer to support the execution of engineering projects by implementing operational goals and overseeing technical project activities. This role is responsible for managing smaller projects and/or defined phases of larger engineering initiatives, ensuring deliverables are completed on time, within scope, and aligned with quality standards.

The Project Engineer analyzes recurring but varied technical issues, applies sound engineering judgment, and collaborates with cross-functional teams, vendors, and subcontractors to drive project success. This role operates with moderate supervision while contributing to project planning, coordination, and technical problem-solving.

This is a full-time position based out of our Carpinteria, CA location.

How you will thrive and create an impact:

  • Support the planning and execution of engineering projects, including defined phases of larger initiatives, ensuring alignment with schedule, scope, and quality expectations.
  • Analyze technical data and project requirements to identify solutions for recurring or moderately complex engineering challenges.
  • Performcostevaluation on assigned projects, track budget by monitoring costs, and control budget to stay within scope of work.
  • Maintain effective communication with internal stakeholders, vendors, and subcontractors to ensure alignment and timely resolution of technical issues.
  • Provide technical support and guidance during project execution, helping resolve design, production, or implementation challenges.
  • Ensure assigned project activities comply with applicable safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
  • Prepare and maintain project documentation, including reports, schedules, and status updates.
  • Be able to properly manage project budget, properly receive all invoices, and very payment of project contractors.
  • Support risk identification and mitigation planning to help ensure successful project outcomes.
  • Participate in project review meetings, providing updates on assigned tasks, progress, and issues.
  • Ability to calculate static loads, dynamic loads, and perform energy balances.
  • Create P&ID's of new and existing systems using AutoCAD.
  • Create three-dimensional models, and equipment layouts drawings SOLIDWORKS software.
  • Create site layouts using AutoCAD as directed.
  • Create3D and 2D layouts thatare ready tobe used to construct processes or fabricated machinery.
  • Be able to use Microsoft Project to construct and design proper timelines and properly estimate completion of project.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What we're looking for:

  • Education:
  • Bachelor's degree preferred in an Engineering or related technical field.
  • Experience:
  • 2-5+ years of relevant engineering or project coordination experience.
  • Working knowledge of engineering principles, project management practices, and technical problem-solving.
  • Experience coordinating with cross-functional teams and external vendors or contractors.
  • Familiarity with project planning tools, scheduling techniques, and cost tracking methods.
  • Knowledge in creating drawings using SOLIDWORKS and AutoCAD.
  • Additional Qualifications:
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Effective communication and collaboration abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
  • Working knowledge of safety and regulatory requirements.
  • Proficiency in project management and engineering software/tools.

Scope & Impact:

  • Manages smaller-scale projects or components of larger projects.
  • Works under guidance of senior engineers or project managers.
  • Contributes to project efficiency, quality, and timely delivery.
Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Why Avantor?

Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life-changing science.
The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world. Apply today!

Pay Transparency:

The expected pre-tax pay for this position is

$69,000.00 - $110,975.00

Actual pay may differ depending on relevant factors such as prior experience and geographic location.

EEO Statement:

We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at recruiting@avantorsciences.comand let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

For more information about equal employment opportunity protections, please view the Know Your Rights poster.

Privacy Policy:

We will use the personal information that you have submitted to us in order to consider your application for the relevant role.

Your privacy is important to us. Please click here for our Privacy Policy which explains the purposes for which we will use your personal information and the ways in which we will handle and retain your information. It also explains the rights you have in relation to your information, and how to contact us with any queries or requests.

3rd Party Non-Solicitation Policy:

By submitting candidates without having been formally assigned on and contracted for a specific job requisition by Avantor, or by failing to comply with the Avantor recruitment process, you forfeit any fee on the submitted candidates, regardless of your usual terms and conditions. Avantor works with a preferred supplier list and will take the initiative to engage with recruitment agencies based on its needs and will not be accepting any form of solicitation.


What Avantor employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Avantor logo

About Avantor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Avantor, our ICARE Values are our core set of principles that guide and focus the Company's strategy.: Innovation; customer centric; accountability; respect; excellence! Avantor is committed to creating a fully inclusive culture that celebrates diversity and provides equitable opportunities for all associates to grow and succeed. While setting science in motion our employees can join employee focus groups.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Radnor, PA, US

Year founded

1904

Social media