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Associate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Job Summary The Mechanical Engineer will carry out engineering assignments concerned with the planning, design and testing of mechanical equipment, systems, and processes. Works cooperatively with ...

Mechanical Engineer

Corona, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

Mechanical Engineer Summary The Mechanical Engineer serves to focus on the design of mechanical systems for new facilities, additions, and renovation projects. This will require providing technical ...

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer Location: California Reports To: Vice President, Systems Engineering Salary Range: $150,000 - $170,000 Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Thermal/Mechanical Engineer ...

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $150K/yr

We're looking for a hands-on Mechanical Engineer who wants to stay deeply involved in engineering design, calculations, Revit production, and technical problem solving. You'll work on complex health ...

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer Location: California Reports To: Vice President, Systems Engineering Salary Range: $150,000 - $170,000 Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Thermal/Mechanical Engineer ...

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer Location: California Reports To: Vice President, Systems Engineering Salary Range: $150,000 - $170,000 Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Thermal/Mechanical Engineer ...

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

Mechanical Engineer Summary The Mechanical Engineer serves to focus on the design of mechanical systems for new facilities, additions, and renovation projects. This will require providing technical ...

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Mechanical Engineer Summary The Mechanical Engineer serves to focus on the design of mechanical systems for new facilities, additions, and renovation projects. This will require providing technical ...

TP-Link Systems Inc. is seeking a talented and driven Mechanical Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will own the mechanical system architecture (internal layout, construction strategy, and ...

TP-Link Systems Inc. is seeking a talented and driven Mechanical Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will own the mechanical system architecture (internal layout, construction strategy, and ...

As an Opto-Mechanical Engineer supporting Surgical Instrumentation Research & Development, you will ... Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent years of directly related experience (or high school +8 yrs; Assoc. ...

TP-Link Systems Inc. is seeking a talented and driven Mechanical Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will own the mechanical system architecture (internal layout, construction strategy, and ...

TP-Link Systems Inc. is seeking a talented and driven Mechanical Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will own the mechanical system architecture (internal layout, construction strategy, and ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA

$112K - $148K/yr

Description The Senior Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and components. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Mechanical Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$43.3K

$86.2K

$137.7K

How much do associate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate mechanical engineer in Riverside, CA is $86,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,300.00 and $99,100.00 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 Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Associate Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Mechanical Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, and 57% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,212 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer Manager

Ontario, CA • On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead mechanical design and R&D activities supporting next-generation server and hardware solutions. This role combines engineering leadership, customer support, mechanical design, and project management, while collaborating closely with U.S. customers, manufacturing teams, and R&D teams.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and mentor the local Mechanical Engineering/R&D team.
  • Serve as a key technical contact for customers and provide timely engineering solutions.
  • Lead mechanical projects from concept and design through prototyping, testing, and production.
  • Review and support Creo designs, engineering drawings, BOMs, and DFM.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, production, and quality issues.
  • Coordinate with manufacturing teams and overseas R&D teams.
  • Manage project schedules, priorities, technical risks, and deliverables.
  • Support NPI and transition of new products into mass production.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 8+ years of mechanical engineering/product development experience.
  • Previous engineering leadership or management experience.
  • Strong CAD experience; Creo strongly preferred.
  • Strong experience with sheet-metal design and manufacturing.
  • Experience with prototyping, testing, DFM, BOMs, and engineering drawings.
  • Strong project management, troubleshooting, and customer communication skills.
  • Server chassis, rackmount, data center hardware, or electronics enclosure experience preferred.
  • Experience working with global R&D/manufacturing teams is a plus.
  • Mandarin Chinese is a plus.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance