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Associate Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in California

Associate, Manufacturing Engineer Job Code: 41586 Job Location: San Diego, CA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off As ...

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Associate, Manufacturing Engineer Job Code: 41586 Job Location: San Diego, CA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off As ...

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$73K - $136K/yr

Senior Associate, Manufacturing Engineering (Chemical Processing) Job Code: 41857 Job Location: Canoga Park, CA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked ...

Associate, Manufacturing Engineer Job Code: 41586 Job Location: San Diego, CA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off As ...

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Associate Manufacturing Engineer information

See California salary details

$12

$20

$32

How much do associate manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate manufacturing engineer in California is $20.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process improvement, and manufacturing methodologies, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, Lean Manufacturing tools, and quality management systems (such as Six Sigma) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient production processes, high product quality, and successful collaboration with cross-functional teams.

What are some typical challenges faced by an associate manufacturing engineer during process improvements?

As an Associate Manufacturing Engineer, one of the main challenges is balancing the need for efficiency improvements with maintaining product quality and safety standards. You may encounter resistance to change from production teams who are accustomed to existing processes, requiring strong communication and collaboration skills. Additionally, troubleshooting equipment or workflow issues often demands quick, analytical thinking and adaptability, especially when working under tight production deadlines. Overcoming these challenges offers valuable opportunities to develop problem-solving abilities and gain hands-on experience with lean manufacturing principles.

What is the difference between Associate Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectAssociate Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting manufacturing processes, assisting senior engineersDesign, optimize, and oversee manufacturing processes independently
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing plants, production facilities, industrial companiesManufacturing firms, automotive, aerospace, electronics industries

The main difference is experience and responsibility level. Associate Manufacturing Engineers typically support and assist in manufacturing processes, while Manufacturing Engineers take on more independent roles in designing and improving production systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are common in manufacturing industries.

How much does an associate manufacturing engineer make?

An associate manufacturing engineer typically earns between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often involves working with manufacturing processes, quality control, and production optimization tools.

Is an associate manufacturing engineer entry level?

An associate manufacturing engineer is typically an entry-level position suitable for recent graduates or those with limited industry experience. It often involves learning manufacturing processes, using tools like CAD software, and developing skills necessary for career advancement in engineering roles.

What is an associate manufacturing engineer?

An associate manufacturing engineer is an entry-level professional who supports the design, development, and improvement of manufacturing processes. They often work with production teams, utilize engineering tools, and may require knowledge of quality standards and manufacturing software. This role typically involves learning on the job and gaining experience in a manufacturing environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California?

For Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Associate Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Manufacturing Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,774 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Associate, Manufacturing Engineering

San Diego, CA • On-site

L3 Harris
Machinery Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$64K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


L3Harris rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

L3Harris

Based on 234 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.
L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.
Job Title: Associate, Manufacturing Engineer
Job Code: 41586
Job Location: San Diego, CA
Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off
Job Description: As a new graduate in the Manufacturing Engineering role, you will assist in supporting the production of high-reliability electronic hardware for Tactical Satellite equipment, including SMT(Surface Mount Technology) solder assembly, mechanical integration, and environmental testing. Responsibilities include establishing work instructions, developing process procedures, qualifying new tools/equipment, overseeing non-conformance reviews, implementing engineering changes, maintaining labor standards, and process controls. Additionally, the engineer will assist senior engineers with new product introductions, root-cause investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Essential Functions:
  • Implement and analyze manufacturing plans and projects.

  • Design, develop, and transfer manufacturing and engineering tools, strategies, and systems.

  • Develop manufacturing strategies for specific products and processes.

  • Interface with engineering to coordinate the release of new products.

  • Estimate manufacturing costs, determine time standards, and recommend tooling and process requirements for new or existing product lines.

  • Maintain records and reporting systems to coordinate manufacturing operations.

  • Work closely with cross-functional Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) to oversee the development and transfer of new products from Engineering to Production.

  • Create work instructions, assembly routings, and establish labor/cycle time standards.

  • Perform economic analyses to identify and address variances in planned labor and cycle times.

  • Maintain manufacturing processes and oversee process equipment.

  • Develop/procure manufacturing tooling and qualify materials required for new product introduction (NPI).

  • Attend daily shift huddles and support product line key performance indicators (KPIs).

  • Support root cause analyses and implement corrective actions to address product non-conformances.

Qualifications : T o be eligible, applicants must be pursuing a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical Engineering, chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field or have completed their bachelor's degree within the last 12 months, regardless of age.
PAY TRANSPARENCY: In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington, and the Greater D.C, Denver, or NYC areas is $64,500 - $120,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaini ng agreements.
L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.
Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.
L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish . For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish .

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