ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California

Monograph

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer - Product Design Overview * Product Design, Architecture, Scale OEM product experience * Extensive experience in design for manufacturing, reliability, and process ...

New

Hydra Electric

MECHANICAL DESIGN ENGINEER

Burbank, CA · On-site

$73K - $88K/yr

mechanical design engineer Overview The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for designing, validating, and sustaining pressure and temperature sensing products for aerospace applications.

Menlo Ventures

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$100 - $300/hr

Position Overview We are looking for Mechanical Design Engineers to create and fabricate robotic systems for teleoperation, human-robot interaction and data collection. You will be responsible for ...

New

Volto USA

Mechanical Design Engineer

North Hollywood, CA · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Mechanical Design engineers and Quality checkers, with Manufacturing engineering background. 6+ yrs Aerospace experience is a must New Product Introduction In-service reliability tracking and ...

Amca

Mechanical Design Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$81K - $109K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineering role is responsible for developing flight hardware for new and existing airframes. You will serve as the extreme owner of the product from concept through ...

INFT Solutions inc

Mechanical Design Engineer

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Job Title:-Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Camarillo, CA (Onsite - Local Candidates Preferred) Exp. Level: 5 + Yrs Min. Skills & Description: * Solidworks 3D and good 2D drawing skills . We ...

Approach Venture

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Rocket Propulsion Hardware Thousand Oaks, California | On-site Opportunity Summary Join a growing aerospace company designing and manufacturing liquid propulsion ...

Viasat

Mechanical Design Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$120.50 - $190/hr

What you'll do Viasat is looking for a dynamic Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join our growing team. In this exciting role, you will be responsible for the design, documentation, and testing of ...

Hadrian Automation

Mechanical Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Role We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support the development of custom industrial machinery, automation equipment, robotic tooling, and mechanical systems. This role owns ...

KLA Corporation

Mechanical Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$117K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The engineer will be responsible for mechanical design, analysis, documentation, prototype development, assembly support, supplier engagement, and product lifecycle support. The candidate will work ...

Banks Power

Mechanical Design Engineer

Azusa, CA

$77K - $104K/yr

We are seeking an aspiring Mechanical Design Engineer to help us design and develop high-performance automotive products and systems using CAD, CFD, FEA tools. You will manage design projects from ...

N6.com

Mechanical Design Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Mechanical Design Engineer We are a rapidly growing biotech organization based in Pleasanton, CA, focused on developing next‑generation sample preparation tools that are revolutionizing genomic ...

New

Viasat, Inc.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

What you'll do Viasat is looking for a dynamic Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join our growing team. In this exciting role, you will be responsible for the design, documentation, and testing of ...

Orbotech

Mechanical Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$117K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The engineer will be responsible for mechanical design, analysis, documentation, prototype development, assembly support, supplier engagement, and product lifecycle support. The candidate will work ...

KLA Corporation

Mechanical Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$117K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The engineer will be responsible for mechanical design, analysis, documentation, prototype development, assembly support, supplier engagement, and product lifecycle support. The candidate will work ...

Viasat, Inc.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

What you'll do Viasat is looking for a dynamic Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join our growing team. In this exciting role, you will be responsible for the design, documentation, and testing of ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 20, 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, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% 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

Monograph

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer - Product Design

Overview

  • Product Design, Architecture, Scale OEM product experience

  • Extensive experience in design for manufacturing, reliability, and process / materials science

  • Relevant experience working with CMs and overseas vendors

  • Experience with mobile bases or actuated moving systems, ideally in the home

We're looking for an experienced mechanical engineer to drive the integration and development of our robotic systems, leading innovative designs from concept to deployment. You'll own the full spectrum of mechanical development—from actuator sizing or design to kinematics and work with teams to prototype and ultimately produce systems at scale—ensuring reliability, deployability, and performance. The ideal candidate is a hands‑on innovator with deep expertise in mechatronic systems, combining theoretical knowledge with practical engineering skills. Experience with actuation systems, electromechanical integration, machine design, and a track record of bringing mechanical systems to life is essential. If this sounds like you, please apply!

What you’ll do

  • Own the mechanical design lifecycle: from early concept and proof‑of‑concept prototypes to high‑volume production, driving all design decisions around 3D CAD, 2D drawings, material selection, and manufacturability.

  • Develop and refine manufacturing processes: Identify and optimize injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, adhesives, and bonding methods for new and existing products.

  • Ensure reliability and robustness: Perform and interpret reliability tests (HALT/HASS, tolerance stack‑ups, environmental testing) and lead corrective design actions.

  • Leverage simulation for smart decisions: Use basic FEA tools (thermal, structural, vibrational) and first‑order analyses to validate or guide design from early phases onward.

  • Lead system integration efforts: Collaborate with electrical and radio teams to balance thermal, EMI, mechanical stability, and accessibility needs in tightly integrated assemblies.

  • Prototype and iterate quickly: Build proof‑of‑concept designs, run experiments, and translate findings into high‑yield, mass‑production‑ready solutions.

  • Manage vendor relationships: Evaluate DFM, cost, yield, and timeline trade‑offs; work with JDM/CM/ODM partners; own and drive supplier selection where needed.

  • Communicate effectively across teams: Conduct design reviews with cross‑functional stakeholders, clearly articulating design rationale, risks, and trade‑offs.

Qualifications

  • Educational Background and Experience

  • 7 years of experience taking hardware products from concept to production, with a strong portfolio of shipped mechanical designs, preferably in robotics, automotive, consumer product.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience.

  • Technical Expertise

  • Deep understanding of a wide range of high‑volume processes (e.g., injection molding, die casting, stamping, machining, bonding).

  • Familiarity from past experiences with HALT/HASS, FMEA, DOE methodologies, and test‑to‑failure approaches for robust mechanical design.

  • Practical understanding of when and how to apply FEA tools; ability to make first‑order engineering judgments.

  • Proven record of mechanically integrating electronics (sensors, PCBs, antennas, batteries) in complex assemblies.

  • Ability to lead reviews, influence cross‑functional teams, and convey risks and solutions clearly.

  • Hands‑On Skills

  • Comfort in early‑stage, resource‑limited startup environments, with a willingness to get your hands dirty to move quickly.

  • Proficiency in various prototyping methods, including machining (mill, lathe), sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing, injection molding and other manufacturing processes.

  • Experience building and testing prototypes.

  • Ability to analyze failures and implement improvements.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply