ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California

Xforia, Inc.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Sacramento, CA Key Skills: Mechanical Design | Inventor | Automation | Tooling | Prototype | Testing | DFM | materials and manufacturing processes | Project ...

Actalent

Mechanical Design Engineer

Burbank, CA

$73K - $88K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for designing, validating, and sustaining pressure and temperature sensing products for aerospace applications. This role ...

Pacific Fusion

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Why This Role Matters As a Mechanical Design Engineer , you will help with the design, development, and integration and validation of mechanical components and systems integral to our advanced fusion ...

Sanmina

Mechanical Design Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$90K - $122K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for mechanical design and development of electromechanical products. The scope of responsibilities includes complete product development cycle from ...

CMC Rescue Inc

Mechanical Design Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

We're looking for an experienced mechanical design engineer ready to take the next step in their career and contribute to an employee-owned company whose mission is to help save lives. This is a ...

JMJ PHILLIP

Mechanical Design Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$73 - $88/hr

We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to develop innovative mechanical designs, support product development, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality engineering ...

Actalent

Mechanical Design Engineer

Burbank, CA

$73K - $88K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for designing, validating, and sustaining pressure and temperature sensing products for aerospace applications. This role ...

Vast

Mechanical Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$86K - $122K/yr

Vast is looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer , reporting to the Manager, Structures Design, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial ...

Northwoodspace

Mechanical Design Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$84K - $119K/yr

Role: Northwood is seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer to join our dynamic team, specializing in the design of structures, systems, tooling, and other products for our ground station antennas.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Mechanical Design Engineer JobsAssociate Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California

Associate Mechanical Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$90.4K

$134.7K

How much do associate mechanical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical design engineer in California is $90,379.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate mechanical design engineer do?

An Associate Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems and components. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to create technical drawings, conduct simulations, and support the manufacturing process. Their role typically includes collaborating with cross-functional teams, analyzing design specifications, and making improvements to ensure products meet quality and safety standards.

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

To thrive as an Associate Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, mechanical design, and proficiency with CAD software, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of relevant standards and certifications, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and present your ideas clearly. These skills ensure the successful development and implementation of innovative mechanical solutions that meet project requirements and industry standards.

What opportunities for career growth are available to an associate mechanical design engineer?

As an Associate Mechanical Design Engineer, you can expect to gain hands-on experience working on various design projects alongside senior engineers, which is a strong foundation for career advancement. Many organizations offer mentorship programs, technical training, and support for professional certifications to help you develop specialized skills. With a few years of experience and demonstrated capability, you may progress to roles such as Mechanical Design Engineer, Senior Mechanical Engineer, or Project Lead. Additionally, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like manufacturing and quality assurance will broaden your industry knowledge and network, further supporting your career trajectory.

What is the difference between Associate Mechanical Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectAssociate Mechanical Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; some roles may require internship experienceBachelor's or Master's degree; more experience may be preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based design projects, often under supervisionMore independent project work, leading design tasks
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in design, drafting, and testing; learning company standardsDeveloping detailed designs, reviewing specifications, and collaborating with manufacturing

The main difference between an Associate Mechanical Design Engineer and a Mechanical Design Engineer lies in experience and responsibility level. The associate role is typically entry-level, focusing on learning and supporting design tasks, while the Mechanical Design Engineer has more independence and handles complex projects. Both roles require a background in mechanical engineering and are common in engineering firms and manufacturing industries.

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

The most popular types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate Mechanical Design Engineer job openings:

Associate Mechanical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,379 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Columbus Technologies and Services Inc

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$70 - $94/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

OVERVIEW
Must be a US Citizen
Duration - 6 month contract position with potential to be extended or converted
W2 with full benefits
Customer and contract specific training will be required and provided.
Location - NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, CA (onsite)
Offer contingent on ability to successfully pass a background check and drug screen
Salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

JOB DESCRIPTION
This is an opportunity to be a Mechanical Design Engineer in the Engineering Design group at JPL, which engages in the engineering and design of advanced spacecraft, instruments and robotic mechanisms for exploration of the solar system.
  • Performing as a Design Engineer for JPL on a spacecraft, instrument or robotic project.
  • Creating complex CAD models, assemblies and engineering drawings.
  • Working with world class engineers and participating on teams in a highly collaborative environment.
  • Developing and running configuration trades on the mechanical system of a spacecraft project.
  • Interfacing with space science experts, analysts, manufacturing engineers, and project staff.
  • Performing conceptual spacecraft design for feasibility and cost estimates of future missions.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Experience and knowledge in the following areas:
  • Mechanical design of spacecraft primary and secondary structures, mechanisms and instruments.
  • Engineering CAD (Computer-Aided Design) tools such as Siemens NX (preferred), CATIA or Creo.
  • Creating engineering drawings using the ASME Y14.100-2017 standard.
  • Creating detail drawings, assembly drawings, interface drawings and source control drawings.
  • Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) using ASME Y14.5-2018.
  • Application of advanced principles, theories, concepts and techniques in solving mechanical engineering problems.
  • Adept at performing trade studies and developing conceptual configurations.
  • Aerospace fabrication processes.
  • Aerospace material selection.
  • PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) tools such as Teamcenter (preferred), Enovia or Windchill.
DESIRED SKILLS
  • TS/SCI
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action

Columbus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, national origin, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. As a federal contractor, Columbus participates in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.