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Associate Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RICK

Be Seen First

Associate Engineering Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$38.50 - $48.50/hr

Rick Engineering Company (RICK) is seeking a confident and motivated Associate Engineering Designer to join our Land Development Group for our San Diego, California office. If you are looking for a ...

RICK

Be Seen First

Associate Engineering Designer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$40 - $47.50/hr

Holiday Parties, Team Building Activities and Events and Alternative Work Schedule Rick Engineering Company is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer Rick's employees are protected by ...

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All JobsAssociate Engineering JobsAssociate Engineering Jobs in California

Associate Engineering information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineering in California is $81,554.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $93,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Associate Engineer do?

An Associate Engineer is an entry-level professional who assists in designing, developing, and maintaining engineering projects. They work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping with technical tasks such as drafting plans, conducting tests, and collecting data. Their responsibilities may also include troubleshooting issues, preparing reports, and ensuring projects comply with industry standards. Associate Engineers typically work in fields like civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering.

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 understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and typically a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or MATLAB, and sometimes certifications like EIT (Engineer-in-Training), are commonly required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are soft skills that help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for successfully executing technical tasks, collaborating on projects, and supporting senior engineers in achieving organizational goals.

What are some typical challenges Associate Engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering teams?

Associate Engineers often find that moving from academic projects to professional engineering teams involves adapting to faster-paced timelines, working within established processes, and collaborating with colleagues from various disciplines. Unlike academic work, where projects might be more theoretical or self-directed, real-world engineering requires balancing multiple tasks, following industry standards, and communicating effectively to ensure project success. Over time, most associate engineers develop strong problem-solving and teamwork skills, which are essential for advancement and continued success in the field.

What is the difference between Associate Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectAssociate EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or diploma, some certificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, licensure often not required initially
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, technical support, manufacturing, constructionDesign, analysis, research, manufacturing, often more autonomous
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, manufacturing companies, government agenciesEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive industries

Associate Engineering roles typically require an associate degree and focus on technical support and implementation tasks. Mechanical Engineering positions usually demand a bachelor's degree and involve design, analysis, and problem-solving responsibilities. Both roles are essential in engineering projects but differ in education level, scope, and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineering jobs in California? For Associate Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Engineering job openings:
Associate Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineering job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,554 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Associate Engineering Designer

Associate Engineering Designer

RICK ENGINEERING COMPANY

San Diego, CA • On-site

$40 - $49.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Rick Engineering Company (RICK) is seeking a confident and motivated Associate Engineering Designer to join our Land Development Group for our San Diego, California office.

If you are looking for a place to grow your career and make a difference – RICK is the place for you! As an Associate Civil Engineering Designer in San Diego, CA, you will have an opportunity to work with a multi-disciplinary team on meaningful, landmark projects in the Inland Empire region. As a RICK team member in our Land Development Department, you will help clients and communities turn their dreams into reality. You will learn from and work alongside industry-leading experts and together shape the future of tomorrow. At RICK you will find an abundance of opportunities for mentorship, growth, and (of course) fun! Learn more by visiting www.rickengineering.com.

Qualifications

BSCE, 2 years’ experience in general civil engineering or the equivalent work experience of six years in land development and/or public works design.

Completed coursework in the following areas is desired.

  • Transportation and highway engineering
  • Hydrology, hydraulics
  • Surveying

Additional Requirements

  • AutoCAD/Civil3D experience is required
  • A good driving record is a must.
  • Engineer-in-Training Certificate is required
  • Experience calculating earthwork take-offs and other quantities

What We Offer

  • Additional compensation offered with overtime and bonus potential.
  • Generous Benefits Package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Profit Sharing, 401K, and Life and Disability Insurance and Personal Leave
  • Company Events
  • Holiday Parties, Team Building Activities and Events and Alternative Work Schedule

Rick Engineering Company (RICK) is an Equal Opportunity Employer

RICK's employees are protected by laws designed to protect employees from discrimination on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any other non-merit based factor. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, and training and career development programs. Rick's employees are also protected against retaliation if they engage in a protected activity, whistleblowing, or the exercise of any appeal or grievance right provided by law.