1

Associate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

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

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Mechanical Engineer, UAS

Irvine, CA · On-site

$105K - $150K/yr

Mechanical Engineer, UAS Location: Irvine, CA Work Arrangement: 100% On-site Position Summary We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer, UAS to design and develop airframe structures and mechanical ...

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

Reporting to the Mechanical Engineering Manager, the Sr. Mechanical Engineer will will lead or contribute to all aspects of spacecraft mechanical design, including spacecraft layout, structural and ...

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline. * Proficiency in Microsoft ... our associates and communities, along with competitive benefits and compensation.Our Purpose ...

Mechanical Engineer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$40.01 - $64.90/hr

Mechanical Engineer II Full-time Irvine, CA, US Exclusive confidential search -- details shared with qualified applicants. Benefits You'll Love NextDeavor offers health, vision and dental benefits ...

Mechanical Engineer, Sr.

Santa Ana, CA

$108K - $143K/yr

About the role Job Summary The (Mechanical) Engineering Expert is responsible for leading the design, development, and optimization of mechanical systems and components. This role provides expert ...

We're looking for a Mechanical Engineer to help design and integrate complex mechanical and electromechanical systems powering next-generation hardware-spanning positioning, propulsion, environmental ...

Mechanical Engineer, Sr.

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

About the role Job Summary The (Mechanical) Engineering Expert is responsible for leading the design, development, and optimization of mechanical systems and components. This role provides expert ...

Thermal / Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer Reports To: Vice President, Systems Engineering Company Overview: Netlist Inc. (NASDAQ: NLST) is a leading provider of high-performance modular memory subsystems and next ...

Thermal / Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer Reports To: Vice President, Systems Engineering Company Overview: Netlist Inc. (NASDAQ: NLST) is a leading provider of high-performance modular memory subsystems and next ...

Thermal / Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer Reports To: Vice President, Systems Engineering Company Overview: Netlist Inc. (NASDAQ: NLST) is a leading provider of high-performance modular memory subsystems and next ...

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 Aug 21, 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,212 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Thermal/Mechanical Engineer

Kaizen Stackup

Irvine, CA

$150K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

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 to join a leading engineering team in the development of innovative thermal solutions for memory and storage products. This role will play a critical part in shaping next-generation technologies that support AI, cloud computing, and enterprise infrastructure.


Position Summary

The Thermal/Mechanical Engineer will design, model, and validate advanced thermal solutions for high-performance memory and storage hardware used by top-tier OEMs, ODMs, and hyperscale clients. The ideal candidate will combine deep technical expertise with hands-on design and problem-solving skills.


Key Responsibilities
  • Create mechanical and thermal models of electrical and mechanical assemblies using CAD files or from scratch.

  • Design or source thermal solutions for advanced memory and storage products.

  • Run simulations to validate that thermal designs meet specified requirements.

  • For custom solutions, specify required materials and prepare detailed fabrication and assembly drawings.

  • Develop and implement Design of Experiments (DoEs) to evaluate thermal properties of assemblies.

  • Collaborate with electrical engineering teams, providing feedback and design suggestions.

  • Generate assembly drawings and ensure proper documentation of assembly processes.

  • Partner with manufacturing to guarantee assemblies are built to specifications.


Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or a related field.

  • 8+ years of industry experience in IC packaging design, thermal, or mechanical engineering.

  • Proficiency in mechanical drawing tools such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks.

  • Experience with thermal analysis and simulation tools such as Flowtherm or Icepak.

  • Familiarity with thermal interface materials (heat sinks, spreaders, greases, gap pads, etc.) is desirable.

  • Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and ability to innovate.

  • Excellent communication skills, professionalism, and ability to work cross-functionally.

  • Proven stakeholder management and influencing skills.

  • Knowledge of memory and storage components (DDRx, LPDDRx, NAND) and modules (DIMMs, SSDs, etc.) is highly desirable.

  • Willingness to travel occasionally (less than 10%).


Why This Role Stands Out
  • Work on cutting-edge thermal solutions powering the next generation of computing and storage.

  • Collaborate with world-class engineers in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

  • Competitive salary and growth potential.