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Associate Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kronos Consulting

Engineering Associate

Torrance, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

We are seeking an Engineering Associate to support manufacturing engineering and production activities for a leading aerospace organization. This role is ideal for candidates with experience in ...

City of Oxnard

Associate Engineer/Civil Engineer

Oxnard, CA · On-site +1

$83K - $136K/yr

Provides engineering analysis, review, and comments on all phases of land development engineering ... Associate Engineer or Civil Engineer DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: This position is distinguished ...

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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 Jul 23, 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% 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.
Civil Associate Engineer in Land Development

Civil Associate Engineer in Land Development

Cannon Corp.

Irvine, CA • On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
You'll Come for a Job...But You'll Stay for an Exciting Career! Engineering and Designing Reliable, Responsive, Solutions.
SINCE 1976, CANNON has provided creative solutions to clients in the energy industry, water resources, public infrastructure, and commercial and residential development. We work hard. We play hard. We have fun.
JOIN CANNON as a CIVIL ASSOCIATE ENGINEER LAND DEVELOPMENT in IRVINE. Irvine offers warm weather, beautiful scenery, and is a top bicycling city with miles of on-road bicycle lanes and mountain bike trails. It is one of the safest communities and the public schools have consistently ranked among the best in California.
CIVIL ASSOCIATE ENGINEER LAND DEVELOPMENT JOB SUMMARY
The Civil Associate Engineer - Land Development, assists team members with a variety of tasks on a wide range of complex land development projects including residential, commercial, mixed-use developments and institutional projects. Assignments include project management, design, reporting, supervising, and mentoring less-experienced team members, and representing the company in coordinating with agencies, clients, and other consultants.
CIVIL ASSOCIATE ENGINEER LAND DEVELOPMENT JOB DUTIES
  • Manages a variety of complex civil engineering land development projects.
  • Develops and maintains budgets, schedules, scopes, and work plans.
  • Ensures the projects are delivered on schedule, within scope, and on budget.
  • Works independently on engineering design for projects.
  • Performs complex calculations for earthwork, drainage, and grading.
  • Uses technical knowledge to design plans for grading, drainage, utility, street improvements, storm drains, sanitary sewers, and water lines.
  • Oversees portions of large projects, supervising a team of engineers and technicians.
  • Analyzes and recommends solutions to complex drainage problems.
  • Checks routine designs developed by engineers and technicians.
  • Communicates effectively with various departments, clients, and agencies.

Requirements
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an accredited college.
  • Requires 7+ years' experience in civil engineering and design specifically pertaining to land development projects.
  • Requires a California P.E. license.
  • Requires current and recent experience with various public agencies in Southern California.
  • Requires current and recent experience with large residential and commercial developers in Southern California.
  • Proficient in AutoCAD and Civil 3D.
  • Highly proficient with code principles and able to convey them to others.
  • Proven expertise in land development and public works design.
  • Experience in management of client relationships.
  • Capable of managing a project from start through construction administration and handling multiple assignments concurrently.
  • Experience in hydrologic and hydraulic analyses a plus.

WE OFFER competitive salaries, excellent benefits package, a hybrid work schedule, and an active and positive team building, work environment.
Cannon is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status such as race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age.
Salary Description
$95,000 - $140,000

Apply