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Associate Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Civil Engineer Project Manager Associate

Riverside, CA · On-site

As an Associate Project Engineer/Manager in Inland Empire, CA you will have an opportunity to work with a multi-disciplinary team on meaningful, landmark projects in the Inland Empire region. As a ...

Salas O'Brien

Associate Project Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

Associate Project Manager At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That ...

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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 22, 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 Manager

Object Construction, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

Reporting to the Project Manager (and supporting the CEO as needed), the Associate Project Manager assists in the planning, coordination, and execution of projects from concept through completion. This role is designed for a developing project manager gaining hands-on experience in fabrication-based projects, including retail build-outs, special events, staging, theater, and fixture and furniture production.

The Associate Project Manager supports client communication, internal coordination, scheduling, budgeting, and documentation while progressively taking ownership of smaller projects or defined scopes within larger projects.

Key Responsibilities

Project Support & Execution

  • Assist Project Managers with managing projects from kickoff through completion

  • Track tasks, milestones, and deliverables across assigned projects

  • Identify potential project risks or production challenges and escalate proactively

  • Manage smaller projects or defined project scopes with increasing independence

Client & Communication Support

  • Support client communications, including meeting notes, follow-ups, and status updates

  • Help ensure a consistent, professional client experience

  • Coordinate communication between internal departments

Site Visits & Documentation

  • Attend site visits as required and document venue conditions and logistical details

  • Organize and maintain project documentation, drawings, schedules, and change logs

Budget & Schedule Tracking

  • Assist with tracking project budgets, labor hours, and expenses

  • Help maintain production schedules and crew calendars

  • Support purchase orders, vendor coordination, and expense reconciliation

Fabrication, Installation & Logistics Support

  • Assist with coordination of in-house fabrication and external vendors

  • Support installation, load-in, and load-out logistics as needed

  • Help ensure production quality, accuracy, and timeline adherence

Meetings & Team Coordination

  • Participate in pre-production, kickoff, and internal alignment meetings

  • Take meeting notes and track action items

  • Support cross-functional team coordination

Post-Project Wrap-Up

  • Assist with post-event reconciliation of materials, tools, and inventory

  • Support project close-out documentation and reporting

Safety, Compliance & Culture

  • Follow all company safety, quality, engineering, HR, and finance procedures

  • Support company culture, values, and initiatives

  • Maintain professionalism on job sites and with clients


Additional Responsibilities

  • Prepare reports and documentation as requested

  • Support productivity goals and continuous improvement efforts

  • Participate in training and professional development opportunities


Qualifications

  • 2–4 years of experience in project coordination, production, fabrication, events, construction, or related fields

  • Basic understanding of fabrication, construction, or production workflows

  • Ability to read and interpret drawings, blueprints, or shop drawings preferred

  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail

  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

  • Willingness to travel and work nights and weekends as needed

  • Familiarity with SketchUp, Adobe Illustrator, CAD, or similar software is a plus

  • OSHA 10 Certification is a plus or willingness to obtain

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Eagerness to learn, take initiative, and grow into a leadership role


Benefits

  • Competitive Salary

  • Benefit Eligible

  • Paid Vacation / PTO