1

Associate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in California

Associate Mechanical Engineer Build Products That Help Power America MacLean Power Systems is seeking a motivated Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our growing engineering team in Stockton ...

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $126K/yr

Associate, Mechanical Engineer Job Code: 40627 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 L3Harris ...

Associate Mechanical Engineer Build Products That Help Power America MacLean Power Systems is seeking a motivated Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our growing engineering team in Stockton ...

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $126K/yr

Associate, Mechanical Engineer Job Code: 40627 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 L3Harris ...

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $126K/yr

Associate, Mechanical Engineer Job Code: 40627 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 L3Harris ...

Associate Mechanical Engineer Build Products That Help Power America MacLean Power Systems is seeking a motivated Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our growing engineering team in Stockton ...

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $126K/yr

Associate, Mechanical Engineer Job Code: 40627 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 L3Harris ...

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $126K/yr

Associate, Mechanical Engineer Job Code: 40627 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 L3Harris ...

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

Carlsbad, CA ยท On-site

$88K - $105K/yr

Associate, Mechanical Engineer Job ID: 38930 Job Location: Carlsbad, CA Job Schedule: 9/80:Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Mechanical Engineer information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical engineer 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 is the difference between Associate Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; some roles may require internship experienceBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; often requires licensure or professional certification for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentEntry-level positions in design, testing, or manufacturing departmentsDesign, analysis, and project management in various industries like automotive, aerospace, or HVAC
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by engineering firms, manufacturing companies, and government agencies for entry-level rolesCommonly employed across industries for mid-level engineering tasks and project execution

The main difference between an Associate Mechanical Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Mechanical Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting roles, while Mechanical Engineers handle more complex design and analysis tasks. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for career advancement.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an associate mechanical engineer expect in their first year?

As an Associate Mechanical Engineer, you can anticipate working on a variety of projects such as assisting with the design and testing of mechanical components, creating CAD models, and supporting senior engineers during prototype development. You'll likely be involved in drafting technical documentation, performing basic calculations, and collaborating with cross-functional teams like manufacturing and quality assurance. This early experience provides valuable hands-on exposure to industry standards and project workflows, helping you build a strong technical foundation and develop professional skills essential for career advancement.

What is an associate mechanical engineer?

Associate Mechanical Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems and products. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, contributing to projects such as machinery, HVAC systems, automotive components, or manufacturing equipment. Their responsibilities may include creating technical drawings, performing calculations, preparing reports, and supporting the engineering team throughout the project lifecycle. This role is often a starting point for mechanical engineering graduates seeking to gain practical experience and advance their careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), engineering simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and attention to detail help you excel in collaborative projects and technical documentation. These competencies enable you to design, analyze, and implement effective mechanical solutions while ensuring safety, efficiency, and innovation in engineering environments.

What can I do with an associate mechanical engineer?

An associate mechanical engineer can work in designing, testing, and maintaining mechanical systems across industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and HVAC. They often assist senior engineers, use CAD software, and may pursue certifications like EIT or PE to advance their careers.

Is an associate in mechanical engineering worth it?

An associate degree in mechanical engineering can provide a foundation for entry-level roles such as technician or drafter, often requiring less time and cost than a bachelor's degree. However, for higher-level engineering positions, a bachelor's or higher degree is typically necessary, and the associate degree may limit advancement opportunities in the field.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% 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.

Associate Mechanical Engineer

mlp

Stockton, CA โ€ข On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Associate Mechanical Engineer

Build Products That Help Power America

MacLean Power Systems is seeking a motivated Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our growing engineering team in Stockton, California.This is a hands-on engineering opportunity for someone who enjoys mechanical design, problem-solving, testing, prototype development, and working directly with manufacturing teams. You will have the opportunity to support products from initial concept and design through fabrication, testing, production, and final release.Our Stockton team designs and manufactures high-voltage switchgear and utility equipment used by major electric utility companies throughout California and across the United States. We take pride in producing dependable, high-quality, Made in the USA equipment that supports the nationโ€™s electrical grid and critical infrastructure.Whether you are a recent graduate or an early-career engineer looking to expand your experience, this role offers valuable exposure to product development, manufacturing, testing, and continuous improvement within a growing company.

What Youโ€™ll Do:

  • Create and revise 3D models and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
  • Produce detailed engineering drawings, assemblies, and bills of materials.
  • Develop drawing details, dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing requirements.
  • Design, build, and evaluate mechanical prototypes.
  • Perform product testing and document test procedures, observations, and results.
  • Work directly with fabrication, machining, welding, and assembly teams to ensure designs are practical and manufacturable.
  • Support prototype builds and assist with resolving fit, function, and manufacturing issues.
  • Process Engineering Change Orders and Engineering Change Requests (ECOs/ECRs) and maintain accurate engineering documentation.
  • Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing, assembly, and product-performance issues.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives for existing products and manufacturing processes.
  • Participate in design reviews and collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout product development.
  • Work closely with engineering, quality, operations, purchasing, and production personnel.
  • Help take products from initial concept through prototype, testing, manufacturing, and production release.

What Weโ€™re Looking For:

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline, or expected graduation in the near future.
  • Experience with SolidWorks and AutoCAD is preferred, but not required.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Mechanically inclined with a desire to work in a hands-on engineering environment.
  • Interest in mechanical design, fabrication, welding, manufacturing, and product testing.
  • Comfortable working in both an office and manufacturing setting.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, welders, fabricators, machinists, assemblers, and other team members.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to take direction.
  • Desire to grow professionally and take on increasing levels of responsibility.

Why Join MacLean Power Systems?At MacLean Power Systems, you will do more than create drawingsโ€”you will help design and build equipment that utility companies depend on to keep power flowing safely and reliably.You will be involved throughout the product-development process, from concept and CAD design to prototype fabrication, testing, manufacturing, and final release. This position provides the opportunity to work both at your desk and on the production floor, allowing you to see your designs become real, functional products.

We offer:

  • A collaborative and supportive engineering team.
  • Hands-on experience designing, building, testing, and improving real products.
  • Exposure to fabrication, welding, machining, assembly, quality, and manufacturing processes.
  • Opportunities to contribute to new product development and continuous improvement projects.
  • Room for professional growth and career advancement within a growing company.
  • The opportunity to work on equipment used by major electric utilities throughout California and across the United States.
  • The satisfaction of helping produce high-quality, Made in the USA equipment that supports Americaโ€™s electrical infrastructure.

If you are mechanically inclined, enjoy solving practical engineering problems, and want a role where you can design, build, test, and improve real products, we encourage you to apply.

Pay Range: $21.00 - $22.00