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Associate Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Associate Engineer - Design

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$109K - $164K/yr

This position will perform professional and technical engineering work including project management, contract administration, engineering design and related capital programs. An Associate Engineer ...

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Associate Engineering information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior engineering roles such as Petroleum Engineers, Software Engineering Managers, and certain specialized roles in investment banking or high-frequency trading can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve leadership responsibilities or working in high-stakes industries.

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 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 involve supporting engineering projects, performing testing, and using tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB, often requiring strong problem-solving skills and familiarity with industry standards.

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 work of Associate engineer?

An Associate Engineer supports engineering projects by assisting with design, analysis, testing, and documentation. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, using tools like CAD software and following technical standards to contribute to project development and problem-solving.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, aerospace, and electrical engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in high-demand industries or leadership roles. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and specialization, with some roles requiring advanced degrees or certifications.
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 cities in California are hiring for Associate Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Engineering job openings:
Associate Engineer - Water Engineering

Associate Engineer - Water Engineering

City of Anaheim

Anaheim, CA

$109K - $164K/yr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


City Of Anaheim rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

368th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The City of Anaheim is seeking an Associate Engineer to assist the Public Utilities Water Division. This position is assigned to the Planning-Resources Section of Water Engineering. Responsibilities include performing a variety of advanced level professional duties and responsibilities involved in the research, planning, design, plan check, and/or construction of various engineering projects; to serve as project manager on complex water planning-resources projects; to respond to questions and inquiries from the general public, developers, contractors, engineering professionals, and City staff regarding engineering and development projects; and to perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility.

The ideal candidate will have experience with potable water distribution systems and hydraulics. Based upon qualifications, the selected candidate may be placed in Water Development, Water Planning, or Water Resources Unit. Possession of an Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate or certification as a Professional Engineer (PE) is required.

Essential Functions The following functions are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed functions and/or may be required to perform additional or different functions from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices. To view the complete job descriptions, please click below.

Associate Engineer Performs, directs, and reviews engineering projects related to the planning, analysis, permitting, design, and/or implementation of municipal water supply system projects. Analyses may include evaluation and long-term planning of water system improvements to ensure adequate water is available for new or redeveloped areas of the City. Participate in the selection of private consulting engineering services; prepare proposals; conduct interviews and review consultant qualifications; provide recommendations in the selection of consulting engineers.

Assist higher-level engineers on large and complex development projects or public works construction projects. Check plans for construction projects to determine compliance with applicable codes; check engineering methods used in project design and verify accuracy of hydraulic calculations. Serve as a project manager on complex construction projects; administer project from inception to completion including design, review, public meetings, bidding and construction; develop scope of work; serve as liaison to City staff, developers, engineers, consultants, the general public and external agencies on proposed development projects; and develop project timelines, set priorities, and oversee the services of consultant staff.

As assigned, supervise, plan, prioritize, assign, and review the work of project staff and consultants; participate in the selection of staff; provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline procedures. Respond to questions and inquiries from the general public, developers, contractors, engineering professionals, and City staff regarding engineering and development projects; investigate complaints and recommend corrective action as necessary to resolve complaints. Serve as staff to a variety of City commissions, boards and committees; prepare engineering studies, reports, and presentations including initial environmental impact and water supply industry reports.

Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of civil engineering. Perform related duties as required. Qualifications Experience and Education: Two (2) years of professional engineering experience, supplemented by a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in civil engineering or a related field.

An equivalent combination of experience and education sufficient to perform the essential job functions and provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. Knowledge of: Operations, services, and activities of a municipal engineering program; theory, principles, and practices of civil engineering and design; principles of mathematics and their application to engineering work; principles and practices of project management and administration; methods and techniques of contract negotiations and administration; methods, materials, and techniques used in civil engineering projects including those used in the design and construction of development projects; methods and techniques of engineering plan review and analysis; engineering maps and records; recent developments, current literature, and sources of information related to innovations and trends in civil and traffic engineering design and development; principles and practices of business correspondence and technical report preparation; office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases; graphic software; principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation; occupational health and safety standards; pertinent federal, state, and local codes, laws, and regulations. Ability to: Perform professional engineering duties involved in the design, development and construction management of a variety of engineering projects; prepare engineering plans, specifications, and estimates for public works projects; make engineering design computations and check, design, and prepare engineering plans and studies draft reports and make recommendations; understand and interpret engineering construction plans, specifications, and other contract documents; perform technical research and solve difficult engineering problems; coordinate and monitor the work of contractors; serve as the project manager on one or more projects; prepare and manage project budgets; maintain detailed project management records and documentation; interpret, apply, and ensure compliance with pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations; respond to questions and inquiries from a variety of sources regarding engineering and development projects; conduct analytical traffic studies accurately and reliably; coordinate activities with internal and external agencies and committees; use and care for engineering, surveying, and drafting instruments and equipment; operate office equipment including computers and supporting word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications; adapt to changing technologies and learn functionality of new equipment and systems; supervise, train, and evaluate assigned staff; deal tactfully and effectively with the general public; read signal plans and schematics; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

License/Certification Required: Possession of an Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate or certification as a Professional Engineer (PE). Possession of an appropriate, valid driver's license. Supplemental Information ***** IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTION ***** Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.

The deadline for the first review of applications is on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 5:00PM. Applicants are encouraged to apply early. Applicants that apply after the first review are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment.

This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review date. The selection process will consist of a minimum of skills examination and oral interview. The eligibility list established from this recruitment may also be used to fill the current and/or additional vacancies throughout the City.

Candidates must be specific and complete in describing their qualifications for this position. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo a reference / background check (to include a conviction record) and pass a post-offer pre-employment medical examination (which will include a drug/alcohol screening). The City of Anaheim utilizes E-Verify and new employees must provide documentation to establish both identity and work authorization. Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application.

Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method. Equal Opportunity Employer