ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Engineering Jobs in Santa Ana, CA (NOW HIRING)

Arup

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced an Associate, Mechanical Engineer to support our growing property and ... Professional Engineering license is required or ability to obtain within 1 years of joining the ...

Baldwin Park

Senior Engineer (Limited-Term)

Baldwin Park, CA · On-site

$93K - $125K/yr

... engineering standards, specifications, design criteria, policies, procedures, and best practices. * Provide technical leadership, direction, mentoring, and training to Assistant Engineers, Associate ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsAssociate Engineering JobsAssociate Engineering Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

Associate Engineering information

See Santa Ana, CA salary details

$43.2K

$86K

$137.4K

How much do associate engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineering in Santa Ana, CA is $85,990.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,200.00 and $98,900.00 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?

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 can I do with an associate engineering degree?

An associate engineering degree prepares individuals for technician, technologist, or support roles in fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering. Graduates can work in design, testing, maintenance, or manufacturing environments, often using tools like CAD software and adhering to safety standards. The degree can also serve as a stepping stone to further education or certifications in specialized engineering areas.

What is the salary of an associate engineer?

The salary of an associate engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Santa Ana, CA?

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Santa Ana, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineering jobs in Santa Ana, CA?

For Associate Engineering jobs in Santa Ana, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Engineering jobs in Santa Ana, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Engineering jobs in Santa Ana, CA are:

What cities near Santa Ana, CA are hiring for Associate Engineering jobs?

Cities near Santa Ana, CA with the most Associate Engineering job openings:

Associate Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineering job openings in Santa Ana, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,990 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Structural Analysis Engineer (I/II)

Terran Orbital Corporation

Irvine, CA

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Structural Analysis Engineer to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Structural Analysis Engineering Manager, the Structural Analysis Engineer will support spacecraft structural system/sub-system design from the concept level through design reviews, prototype testing, manufacturing, and design verification/testing. In addition to predictive and analytical work, Structural Engineers may serve on-console during spacecraft test activities and operations, including periods of off-hours or on-call work.

We are open to Level I (Associate Engineer) or Level II (Engineer) for this position. 

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Work with a multidisciplinary team to reduce risks by identifying the constraining elements of the structure design and recommend mitigation strategies from concept level to design, prototyping, production, testing, and launch integration.
  • Creating detailed finite element models of satellite structures (systems & sub-systems level) and conducting analyses including but not limited to static, dynamic, buckling, thermal, linear, non-linear, and transient for complex spacecraft systems and sub-systems composed of various materials (isotropic, orthotropic, composites, honeycomb and non-linear) used in the space industry.
  • Ownership of mechanical test projects from start to finish, including but not limited to obtaining quotations from the test house, resolving schedule conflicts internally and externally, planning logistics of the test with the test house if testing is out-sourced, designing and analyzing test fixtures, assessment of tools/ hardware required for each test, transportation of the test item to the test house and documentation of all the decision and changes.
  • Developing test plans, procedures, and reports for mechanical analyses and tests, including but not limited to vibration, shock, acceleration, life, and endurance tests.
  • Interfacing with outside vendors/test facilities to coordinate mechanical testing logistics and requirements.
  • Participating in team discussions involving vehicle arrangement and design/ analysis for ongoing and future projects.
  • Design and analysis of testing fixtures suitable for conducting mechanical tests.

Qualifications and Skills

  • BS or MS in Mechanical, Aerospace, or equivalent degree required.
  • 0+ years of direct experience (Associate Engineer - level I) working on structural analyses utilizing a mixture of numerical and analytical techniques in space/ aerospace or similar sector.
  • 2+ years of direct experience (Engineer - level II) working on structural analyses utilizing a mixture of numerical and analytical techniques in space/ aerospace or similar sector.
  • Experience working with Nastran/Patran.
  • Must understand solid mechanics and material science principles in conjunction with static and dynamic launch environment loads.
  • Experience with Solidworks or other equivalent CAD software.
  • Previous experience interfacing with internal and external customers.
  • Must possess good presentation and communication skills.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen with ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance.

Additional Differentiators

  • Master of Science degree in Mechanical or Aerospace engineering with a solid mechanics focus or similar desired.
  • Previous experience developing detailed and simplified structural models for spacecraft systems, sub-systems, and components.
  • Experience with vibration (random, sine, SRS) and static load testing of components and complex systems, along with data acquisition/ processing.
  • Experience in a production environment within the space/ aerospace industry.
  • Experience with MSC software package (MSC Apex, NASTRAN, PATRAN, ADAMS, MARC) is a plus.

Salary Ranges

Associate Structural Analysis Engineer (Level I) - $75k to $95k

Structural Analysis Engineer (Level II) - $85k to $120k

Apply