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Associate Research Engineer Jobs in Indio, CA (NOW HIRING)

Associate Engineer

Indio, CA · On-site

$101K - $149K/yr

The Associate Engineer is the journey level class in the professional engineering series in which ... Performs a variety of field surveys; conducts research studies for reporting, compliance and other ...

Associate Engineer

Indio, CA · On-site

$101K - $149K/yr

The Associate Engineer is the journey level class in the professional engineering series in which ... Performs a variety of field surveys; conducts research studies for reporting, compliance and other ...

We specialize in engineering design, asset management, and geospatial data analytics to support ... Associate Land Surveyor - Palm Desert, CA (100% In-Office) Join our team in beautiful Palm Desert ...

We specialize in engineering design, asset management, and geospatial data analytics to support ... Associate Land Surveyor - Palm Desert, CA (100% In-Office) Join our team in beautiful Palm Desert ...

We specialize in engineering design, asset management, and geospatial data analytics to support ... Associate Land Surveyor - Palm Desert, CA (100% In-Office) Join our team in beautiful Palm Desert ...

Associate Research Engineer information

See Indio, CA salary details

$42.5K

$84.7K

$135.3K

How much do associate research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate research engineer in Indio, CA is $84,703.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $97,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by an associate research engineer when working on collaborative projects?

As an Associate Research Engineer, one of the main challenges in collaborative projects is effectively communicating technical findings and progress with multidisciplinary teams, which may include scientists, engineers, and project managers. Balancing multiple priorities, such as meeting project deadlines while ensuring experiments are thoroughly conducted and documented, can also be demanding. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project goals or research directions requires flexibility and proactive problem-solving. Building strong relationships and maintaining clear communication channels are essential for overcoming these challenges and contributing successfully to team objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate research engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Research Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, data analysis, and experimental design, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, Python, CAD software, and lab instrumentation is typically required, along with experience in documentation and reporting systems. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help set candidates apart. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, ensuring accurate research outcomes, and collaborating efficiently within research and development environments.

What does an associate research engineer do?

An Associate Research Engineer supports research and development projects by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and assisting with the design and testing of prototypes or systems. They often collaborate with senior engineers and scientists to develop new technologies or improve existing ones. Responsibilities may also include preparing technical reports, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This role is typically an entry-level engineering position that provides hands-on experience in a research-oriented environment.

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

AspectAssociate Research EngineerResearch Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's, often with more experience or specialization
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting research projects, labs, or R&D teamsMore independent, leading or executing research initiatives
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, manufacturing, and research institutionsUsed across similar industries, often with more responsibility

The main difference between an Associate Research Engineer and a Research Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. Associate Research Engineers typically support research projects and are in early career stages, while Research Engineers often lead or independently execute research tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are prevalent in tech and industrial sectors.

What job categories do people searching Associate Research Engineer jobs in Indio, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Research Engineer jobs in Indio, CA are:
What cities near Indio, CA are hiring for Associate Research Engineer jobs? Cities near Indio, CA with the most Associate Research Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Research Engineer job openings in Indio, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,703 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

Associate Engineer

City of Indio

Indio, CA • On-site

$101K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description ***DISCLAIMER: The City reserves the right to accelerate or extend the "Closing Date" of open positions at any time, dependent upon the number of applications received. The City is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will make all reasonable accommodations for the disabled to participate in employment programs and facilities. Women, minorities, and disabled individuals are encouraged to apply.

The finalist candidate must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen. This position will focus on Land Development functions/projects. Land development experience is highly desirable.

***DEFINITION: Under general supervision, learns to perform and performs field and office civil engineering work involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of municipal facilities; performs other related duties as required. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: The Associate Engineer is the journey level class in the professional engineering series in which incumbents are expected to work of average difficulty. It differs from the Assistant Engineer class by its responsibility for more complex engineering projects requiring independent engineering analysis.

This classification is alternatively staffed with Principal Civil Engineer, and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating a level of proficiency that meets the qualifications of the higher level class. Duties ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Learns to perform and performs professional engineering work for water, sewer, street, and other public works projects and programs ensuring technical competence and compliance with all current codes and criteria. Reviews plans, parcel maps, specifications, and other information for accuracy and format; reviews for conformance to established engineering practices, and compliance with state and county laws, ordinances, and regulations; may prepare engineering conditions of approval for proposed developments.

Performs plan checks for closures, title reports and boundaries, street improvement plans, composite utility plans, and water plans and hydraulic calculations for domestic and fire flow and storm drainage, final tract maps, and parcel maps; reviews and issues encroachment permits; collects plan check and inspection fees; prepares agreements for developments for subdivision bonds; prepares cost estimates for bonding; prepares improvement agreements for bonding and final maps. Coordinates NPDES; prepares NPDES annual reports; prepares Water Quality Reporting to the Department of Health Services for compliance; prepares the Annual Emissions report and the Water Emergency Report Plan. Designs various public works projects such as water wells and mains, street improvements, street lights, and the like; prepares legal descriptions and resolutions for right-of-way vacations; coordinates public works project utility relocations; prepares street, water, and monument agreements for tract and parcel maps.

Corresponds with outside agencies, including Department of Health Services, SCAQMD, and WQRB regarding reporting requirements and compliance. Performs engineering calculations; reviews hydraulic and hydrology calculations; designs and inspects water wells; tests for domestic and fire flow and pressure of water. Prepares well development for well sites; performs site inspections for well sites; reviews site plans for proposed well sites; prepares lists of conditions from proposed projects.

Prepares contracts and specifications for public works projects; prepares engineering cost estimates; reviews public works bids and contract documents, holds bid openings and maintains appropriate records; administers contracts, coordinates inspections and authorizes progress payments. Performs a variety of field surveys; conducts research studies for reporting, compliance and other informational purposes; performs CAD drafting. Participates in and coordinates projects, such as the Biopile project and Soil Remediation project.

Provides liaison to contractor representatives in coordinating contract projects; monitors project construction activity; coordinates the review of related invoices and progress payments; prepares change orders as necessary for the alteration of plans and specifications. Responds to inquiries and provides technical assistance to developers, contractors, and the public regarding fee schedules, engineering design, utility locations, policies, ordinances, and regulations; conducts research studies and surveys and prepares reports. Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/local agencies, City management and staff, and the public.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED: Receives general supervision from the City Engineer or the Director of Engineering/Public Works. May provide technical and functional supervision over training personnel or staff. OTHER DUTIES: As a designated representative, attends meetings and may participate in discussions regarding City engineering activities or projects.

Performs other related duties as required. Qualifications (The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification.) Education: In addition to the requirements above, the required qualification is to possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Civil Engineering or a closely related field. Experience: In addition to the requirements above, the required qualification is to possess two years of progressively responsible professional, municipal experience in civil engineering equivalent to that of an Assistant Engineer in the City of Indio

Experience/Education Equivalency Guidelines: Related work experience or additional education may be substituted for the required minimum qualification on a year for year basis. License/Certificate: Possession of a valid Class C California driver's license. Possession of a valid certificate of registration as a Civil Engineer issued by Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists.

Additional Information KNOWLEDGE: Engineering principles and practices as applied to the planning, design and construction of municipal public works projects; engineering design principles, strengths of materials, stress analysis methods and techniques utilized in the preparation of public works projects, designs, and related plans, specifications and cost estimates; the principles, equipment, and methods utilized in surveying and materials testing; plan check; compliance and reporting requirements; NPDES; applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations; methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments; modern office procedures, practices, methods, and equipment, including a computer and applicable software; methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation; proper English, spelling, and grammar; occupational hazards and standard safety practices. SKILLS: Operate an office computer and a variety of word processing, drafting, and software applications. ABILITIES: Perform professional engineering work, including project design; compile, analyze and synthesize engineering and other technical information; prepare accurate plans, specifications, cost estimates, and engineering reports; conduct technical and engineering research work; conduct inspections and evaluate construction relative to approved plans and specifications; prepare and maintain records and prepare reports for compliance; interpret and apply related laws, ordinances, and regulations; interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes, and regulations; read, interpret, and record data accurately; organize, prioritize, and follow-up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines; follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships.