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Associate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in California

Mainspring Energy

Staff Mechanical Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$172K - $203K/yr

Candidates who are still primarily learning engineering fundamentals, company processes, and task-level execution may be better aligned to an Associate Mechanical Engineer role, while candidates who ...

Mainspring Energy

Staff Mechanical Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$172K - $203K/yr

Candidates who are still primarily learning engineering fundamentals, company processes, and task-level execution may be better aligned to an Associate Mechanical Engineer role, while candidates who ...

AlfaTech

Associate - Mechanical

San Jose, CA · On-site

$115 - $160/hr

Associate, Mechanical Job Summary In this role, you will be relied upon to perform various engineering and design activities under the supervision of the Department Head. This will include design ...

Toyon

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Goleta, CA

$125K - $225K/yr

Experience mentoring and providing work leadership to associate mechanical engineers is desirable WE OFFER AN EXCEPTIONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE! * Competitive Industry Pay * 100% Employer-Paid ...

Ring Inc

Staff Mechanical Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$172 - $203/hr

Candidates who are still primarily learning engineering fundamentals, company processes, and task-level execution may be better aligned to an Associate Mechanical Engineer role, while candidates who ...

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All JobsAssociate Mechanical Engineer JobsAssociate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in California

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 Sep 5, 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 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 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 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 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.

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 and career advancement, a bachelor's degree is typically necessary, and additional certifications or experience can enhance job prospects and earning potential.

What kind of jobs can you get with an associate mechanical engineer?

An associate mechanical engineer can work in roles such as manufacturing technician, design assistant, quality control technician, or maintenance engineer. These positions often involve using CAD software, performing technical analysis, and supporting engineering projects in industrial, automotive, or HVAC environments.

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

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

Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical 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 $81,554 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Senior Associate Mechanical Engineer - Federal

Stantec

San Diego, CA • On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead the design and delivery of HVAC, plumbing, and piping systems for federal projects.

  • Manage and oversee the successful delivery of complex federal projects from planning through construction, ensuring quality, schedule, and budget objectives are met.

  • Mentor and lead multidisciplinary teams, providing technical guidance and fostering professional growth.

Stantec rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 452 rated engineering

Job description


Your Opportunity
Stantec seeking a highly qualified Senior Associate, Senior Mechanical Engineer - Federal as a technical leader with strong buildings engineering expertise and a proven track record delivering mechanical solutions for the built environment. This role provides leadership in the design and delivery of HVAC, plumbing, and piping systems while leveraging tools such as Revit and other digital design technologies.
As a Senior Associate, you will lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor staff, support business development, and help grow Stantec's Federal practice. You will serve as a trusted advisor to clients, provide technical leadership, and strengthen Stantec's presence across California and the US West through innovative and client-focused solutions.
Your Key Responsibilities
Business Development/Marketing - Build Trusted Client Relationships & Grow the Practice
  • Lead and support business development efforts to win new federal and government-sector projects aligned with regional and firm strategies.
  • Serve as a key client contact and trusted advisor, helping clients navigate technical, operational, and regulatory requirements.
  • Partners with Principals and marketing teams on proposals, interviews, capture planning, and client pursuits, contributing technical expertise and market knowledge.
  • Represent Stantec through industry events, conferences, professional organizations, presentations, and thought leadership activities.
  • Sustain and grow top-line revenue in collaboration with Regional and Business Center leadership to support growth across the Federal practice and US West region.
  • Nurture existing client relationships and proactively pursue opportunities for new business through strong client engagement and market awareness.

Lead Project Delivery
  • Own the successful delivery of complex federal projects from planning through construction, balancing quality, schedule, budget, and client satisfaction.
  • Serve as the primary project liaison for clients, stakeholders, and project teams, ensuring clear communication and alignment throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Define project scope, goals, deliverables, staffing plans, and execution strategies in collaboration with clients and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Lead project teams through all phases of design and construction while fostering collaboration, accountability, and technical excellence.
  • Guide project decision-making by evaluating technical, operational, budgetary, and schedule impacts and recommending practical solutions.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, local, and industry codes, standards, and quality requirements.
  • Support construction administration activities, including RFI responses, submittal reviews, field observations, change order reviews, and punch list activities.
  • Apply strong mechanical engineering skills, experience, and knowledge to the design and oversight of building projects.
  • Manage and plan production resources and workflow to produce engineering calculations, design documentation, specifications, and drawings.
  • Meet technical, contractual, schedule, budgetary, and client service objectives for each project.
  • Act as a quality control reviewer and technical resource on projects.
  • Effectively delegate work to production support staff and multidisciplinary team members.
  • Develop and deliver project-related client presentations and technical reports.
  • Attend and lead project meetings while coordinating efforts across offices and disciplines.
  • Prepare and oversee project deliverables including basis-of-design narratives, opinions of probable cost, calculations, specifications, and construction documents.
  • Research, evaluate, and present mechanical system options with clear communication of impacts to project goals, budget, schedule, sustainability, and operational performance.
  • Conduct site visits, field investigations, and assessments of existing conditions to develop comprehensive engineering solutions.

Mentor, Lead, and Inspire Teams
  • Mentor and develop engineers, designers, and project leaders, fostering a culture of technical excellence, accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.
  • Provide guidance on project planning, workload forecasting, staffing, and resource management.
  • Serve as a trainer, coach, and technical resource for junior and mid-level staff.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of project delivery practices, technical standards, and engineering processes.
  • Actively collaborate with the broader mechanical engineering practice across the US West and throughout Stantec.

Advance Technical Excellence
  • Maintain and expand knowledge of emerging technologies, building systems, sustainability strategies, industry trends, and market advancements.
  • Stay current with evolving federal, state, local, and industry regulations, codes, and standards applicable to project delivery.
  • Prepare, review, and edit technical specifications, engineering calculations, and design documentation to support high-quality project outcomes.
  • Utilize engineering software and digital design tools, including Revit, IES, and other building performance applications, to support design excellence.
  • Participate in design conflict resolution and provide recommendations that add value and improve project outcomes.
  • Contribute to the development and maintenance of engineering standards, specifications, best practices, and technical resources across the practice.
  • Promote innovative, sustainable, resilient, and energy-efficient design solutions that enhance building performance, operational effectiveness, and long-term client value.
  • Actively participate in initiatives, meetings, and projects that support Business Center, Regional, and firmwide goals.

Your Capabilities and Credentials
  • Designing HVAC and plumbing systems for facilities and built environments.
  • Familiarity with, clients, projects, fee, scope, and teams to achieve budget, schedule and deliverable objectives while meeting key stakeholder critical success factors.
  • Familiarity with, and ability to produce, project-related documents and documentation standards
  • Ability to integrate design elements with other disciplines to deliver a coordinated design.
  • Familiarity with and ability to apply sustainable design principles.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with owners, other disciplines involved in the project, contractors, suppliers, etc.
  • Ability to apply logic, reasoning, and organizational skills to structure concepts and ideas into projects.
  • Experience using BIM software; in particular, Revit MEP.
  • Experience using AutoCAD software.
  • Experience using Bluebeam software.
  • Experience using IES software.
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
  • Strong knowledge of relevant codes and standards
  • Possess a valid driver's license with a good driving record.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree from an ABET accredited curriculum in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
  • Minimum 15 years' experience as a Mechanical HVAC Design Engineer for buildings.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer is required.
  • Knowledge of Plumbing system design is preferred.

Auxiliary Qualifications
  • Qualifications listed below, while not necessarily a requirement for this position in each circumstance, provide additional depth and value to the role.
  • Familiarity with and ability to apply sustainable design principles within projects.
  • LEED Green Associate or LEED AP
  • WELL certified
  • This position exists at the following Stantec locations, San Diego, or Sacramento, CA.

Typical office environment working with computers and remaining sedentary for long periods of time. Field work may include exposure to the elements including inclement weather.
This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice. Stantec is a place where the best and brightest come to build on each other's talents, do exciting work, and make an impact on the world around us. Join us and redefine your personal best.
About Stantec
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what's previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what's possible.
About Us
Stantec's Buildings team is on a mission to become the world's leading integrated design practice. Our architects, engineers, interior designers, consultants, sustainability specialists, and technologists are passionate about the power of design. Our collaborative culture and our innovative, sustainable approach to projects help us create buildings that matter to our world.
Together, we are enhancing the quality of life globally through design.
Join us and design your place with Stantec.
About the Team
Pay Transparency: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
Benefits Summary: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements

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