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Associate Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Qcells

Associate Project Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$80K - $90K/yr

The Associate Project Engineer will assist in providing technical support during the project origination and development phases for community solar scale PV+ESS, PV-only, or ESS-only projects across ...

Qcells

Associate Project Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

The Associate Project Engineer will assist in providing technical support during the project origination and development phases for community solar scale PV+ESS, PV-only, or ESS-only projects across ...

New

Qcells

Associate Project Engineer

Irvine, CA

$80K - $90K/yr

The Associate Project Engineer will assist in providing technical support during the project origination and development phases for community solar scale PV+ESS, PV-only, or ESS-only projects across ...

Qcells

Associate Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

The Associate Project Engineer will assist in providing technical support during the project origination and development phases for community solar scale PV+ESS, PV-only, or ESS-only projects across ...

New

Moog, Inc.

Associate Project Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Associate Project Engineer Work Schedule: Onsite - Santa Barbara, CA Moog's Santa Barbara Operations in Goleta, California, is growing-and we're looking for Associate Project Engineer. These ...

Moog

Associate Project Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA

$70K - $95K/yr

Associate Project Engineer Work Schedule: Onsite - Santa Barbara, CA Moog's Santa Barbara Operations in Goleta, California, is growing-and we're looking for Associate Project Engineer. These ...

L3HHCM20

$80K - $149K/yr

Senior Associate, Project Engineer Job Code: 37711 Job Location: Canoga Park, CA Job Schedule: 9/80 work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off We are ...

UST

Associate Project Manager

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

They are seeking an Associate Project Manager to manage project plans, analyze systems, and supervise software developers while ensuring timely delivery and quality standards. Responsibilities : • ...

PG&E Corporation

Substation Project Engineer

Oakland, CA · Hybrid

$115K - $175K/yr

Responsibilities beyond those of associate Project engineer include, but are not limited to, the following: Develop technical studies and reports, and provide guidance to contractors and outside ...

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All JobsAssociate Project Engineer JobsAssociate Project Engineer Jobs in California

Associate Project Engineer information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate project 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 are some common challenges faced by Associate Project Engineers in coordinating with cross-functional teams?

Associate Project Engineers often work with various departments such as design, procurement, and construction. A common challenge is ensuring clear and consistent communication among these teams, as miscommunication can lead to project delays or budget overruns. Additionally, balancing competing priorities and managing timelines requires strong organizational skills. Adapting to different team dynamics and resolving conflicts diplomatically are also important for keeping projects on track and maintaining positive working relationships.

What are Associate Project Engineers?

Associate Project Engineers are entry- to mid-level professionals who assist in planning, coordinating, and overseeing engineering projects. They work under the supervision of senior engineers or project managers, helping to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documentation, monitoring project progress, conducting site inspections, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. This role serves as a foundational step for engineers seeking to advance to more senior project management or technical positions.

What does an associate project engineer do?

An associate project engineer supports project managers by assisting with planning, coordination, and execution of engineering projects. They often handle tasks such as preparing reports, monitoring schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, typically using tools like AutoCAD or project management software. This role requires strong communication skills and a basic understanding of engineering principles and construction processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Project Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Project Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, project management fundamentals, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and possibly an EIT certification is often expected. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively coordinate with cross-functional teams and manage project tasks. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring projects are executed efficiently, on schedule, and within budget.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, and software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. These roles typically require specialized knowledge, leadership responsibilities, and often involve working in high-demand industries or managerial positions.

What is the difference between Associate Project Engineer vs Project Engineer?

AspectAssociate Project EngineerProject Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certifications preferredBachelor's degree in engineering; often more experience and certifications
Work EnvironmentSupport role in construction or engineering projects, often under supervisionLead role in planning, coordinating, and executing projects
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in construction, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering firmsUsed across similar industries, often with more responsibility

The main difference between an Associate Project Engineer and a Project Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The Associate typically supports project activities and gains experience, while the Project Engineer manages project execution. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the Project Engineer holds a more senior position with greater accountability.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most engineering roles do not reach a $500,000 annual salary, some senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn this level of compensation, often including bonuses and stock options. High earnings typically require advanced certifications, leadership roles, or working in high-demand industries and companies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Project Engineer jobs in California? For Associate Project Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Project Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Project Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Project Engineer job openings:
Associate Project Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Project Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,554 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Associate Project Engineer

Associate Project Engineer

Qcells

San Francisco, CA

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 hours ago

Qcells rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description

POSITION DESCRIPTION: 
The Associate Project Engineer will assist in providing technical support during the project origination and development phases for community solar scale PV+ESS, PV-only, or ESS-only projects across the United States. The Associate Project Engineer will support the Development and Project Engineering teams throughout various stages of the project. This position will involve gaining experience in project-level technical due diligence, project development engineering, EPC engineering oversight, construction support, and project risk analysis.. This role is based in our Offices in Irvine or San Francisco CA.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assist with technical due diligence to support the origination and development team for projects at various stages of development, both before and after project award. 
  • Help prepare conceptual layouts and electrical single-line diagrams for various opportunities. 
  • Support system energy modeling and energy estimates using tools such as PVsyst and Helioscope to ensure production targets are reasonable for both short-term and long-term goals. 
  • Assist in updating system engineering throughout the project development process to optimize financial outcomes. 
  • Participate in technology reviews for PV or ESS equipment and collaborate with manufacturers to assess acceptability for use in long-term operating assets. 
  • Provide technical assistance to the Project Engineering team in support of stakeholders' interests, including investors, site owners, utilities, off-takers, and EPC partners. 
  • Visit project sites to assist in collecting key project technical information, such as site structures, electrical drawings, site electricity load data, and costs. 
  • Work with the origination and development team to contribute to engineering deliverables for key development items, which may include preparing preliminary layouts, technology selection, site studies, feasibility studies, interconnection applications, and project cost estimation. 
  • Support the sourcing and management of external consultants, partners, contractors, and vendors, including assisting in developing Scope of Work documents, managing RFP processes, and controlling scope and scheduling to obtain similar deliverables. 
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by management. 
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or energy engineering science. 
  • Experience in solar or ESS project engineering (internships or entry-level positions are acceptable). 
  • Ability to review engineering and technical matters with a commercial perspective. 
  • Familiarity with ground-mount and battery storage projects in distributed generation. 
  • Comfortable working with various project stakeholders, including EPC partners, developers, consultants, and O&M contractors. 
  • Experience with permitting processes with local authorities and utilities. 
  • Proficiency in engineering software and energy modeling applications, such as AutoCAD, HelioScope, PVsyst, and Microsoft Office tools. 
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 
  • Able to cope with dynamic surroundings and be team-oriented 
  • Able to develop written/verbal work deliverables that are organized and appropriate to the respective audience 
 
Hanwha Q CELLS America Inc. (“HQCA”) is a Qcells company, one of the world’s largest manufacturers and providers of solar photovoltaic (PV) products and solutions.  Headquartered in Irvine, California, HQCA has been rapidly expanding its business in North America through the expansion of products and solutions, including distributed energy solutions, direct-to-homeowner solar sales and financing, and EPC services.  We provide an opportunity to be part of an exciting and growing world-class global business in an interesting and expanding industry of the future.
 
PHYSICAL, MENTAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS: 
To comply with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 the essential physical, mental and environmental requirements for this job are listed below. These are requirements normally expected to perform regular job duties. Incumbent must be able to successfully perform all of the functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.  
Mobility 
Standing 
20% of time  
Sitting 
70% of time  
Walking 
10% of time  
Strength 
Pulling 
up to 10 Pounds  
Pushing 
up to 10 Pounds  
Carrying 
up to 10 Pounds  
Lifting 
up to 10 Pounds  
Dexterity (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) 
Typing 
F 
Handling 
F 
Reaching 
F 
Agility (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) 
Turning 
F 
Twisting 
F 
Bending 
O 
Crouching 
O 
Balancing 
N 
Climbing 
N 
Crawling 
N 
Kneeling 
N 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

The salary range is required by the California Pay Transparency Act and may differ depending on the location of those candidates hired nationwide. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to, skill set, education, licenses and certifications, essential job duties and requirements, and the necessary experience relative to the job’s minimum qualifications.

*This target salary range is for CA positions only and should not be interpreted as an offer of compensation.

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