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Contract Electronics Design Engineer Jobs in Ridgecrest, CA

Provides support to the engineering and design staff by performing a variety of more complex ... of diverse electronic/mechanical equipment and systems in accordance with engineering ...

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Contract Electronics Design Engineer information

See Ridgecrest, CA salary details

$33.8K

$103.8K

$146K

How much do contract electronics design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract electronics design engineer in Ridgecrest, CA is $103,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $120,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Electronics Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Electronics Design Engineer, you need a strong background in electronic circuit design, PCB layout, and proficiency with industry standards, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD tools such as Altium Designer or Eagle, and an understanding of regulatory compliance like IPC standards, are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you efficiently deliver client-focused solutions and work in diverse teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for meeting project deadlines, ensuring product reliability, and maintaining high client satisfaction in a competitive, fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Electronics Design Engineers when working with new clients or projects?

Contract Electronics Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new team dynamics, understanding unique client requirements, and integrating into existing development processes. Since project scopes and expectations can vary widely, effective communication and thorough documentation are essential to clarify deliverables and timelines. Additionally, engineers must be proactive in staying current with industry standards and technologies to ensure seamless collaboration and meet project specifications.

What are Contract Electronics Design Engineers?

Contract Electronics Design Engineers are professionals who are hired on a temporary or project basis to design, develop, and test electronic systems or components for a variety of industries. They typically work with clients to create custom electronic solutions, such as circuit boards, embedded systems, or control systems, and may be involved in all stages from concept through to prototype and production. Their roles often require expertise in electronic hardware, software integration, and compliance with industry standards. These engineers provide flexibility for companies needing specialized skills without committing to permanent hires.

What is the difference between Contract Electronics Design Engineer vs Electronics Design Engineer?

AspectContract Electronics Design EngineerElectronics Design Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electronics or electrical engineering; certifications varySame as contract role, often with additional professional certifications
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often freelance or temporary contractsFull-time employment in companies or organizations
Industry UsageCommon in consulting, freelance projects, or short-term assignmentsStandard role within electronics and tech companies

The main difference is that Contract Electronics Design Engineers work on temporary, project-specific assignments, often freelance, while Electronics Design Engineers are typically employed full-time by companies. Both roles require similar skills and credentials, but their work arrangements and employment status differ.

What cities near Ridgecrest, CA are hiring for Contract Electronics Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Ridgecrest, CA with the most Contract Electronics Design Engineer job openings:
Engineering Technician III

Engineering Technician III

Saalex

Ridgecrest, CA โ€ข On-site

$25.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Saalex is seeking an Engineering Technician III in Ridgecrest, CA. Saalex is an Engineering and Information Technology Services company with a focus on Test Range Operations and Management, Engineering and Logistics Services, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Services and Information Technology Services.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $25.85 hourly

Work Location: Onsite.

Essential Functions:

Provides support to the engineering and design staff by performing a variety of more complex assignments during the installation, maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, calibration, testing, fabrication, construction, and operation of diverse electronic/mechanical equipment and systems in accordance with engineering specifications. Job duties include but are not limited to:

  • Installs, monitors, and services equipment and systems at the company and client sites.
  • Performs test and evaluation, check-out, and certification tasks; performs validations/verifications of various electronic systems.
  • Reviews Engineering Change Proposals for equipment impacts.
  • Assists in accomplishing Engineering Change Instructions.
  • Develops technical/engineering data for Planned Maintenance Systems, technical drawing updates, operating procedures, maintainability improvements, and test reports.
  • Supports systems engineering activities with subject matter expertise.
  • Assists in training others in the operation and performance of systems.
  • Plans and coordinates work of other engineering technicians and related positions.
  • Establishes and maintains filing systems, databases, and logs as needed for tracking project status and inventory.
  • Assists work unit personnel as the on-site customer interface for equipment/system installation, testing, fabrication, and other engineering tasks as needed.
  • Provides technical data and evaluation for components, equipment, and systems consistent with engineering plans, layout, and contract requirements.
  • Supports engineers in the development of technical proposal and provides comments on the technical content and level of effort of the proposed scope of work.
  • Uses established policies and procedures and subject matter knowledge to complete assignments of moderate complexity that vary in nature and sequence.
  • Frequent travel to remote Company work locations may be required.
  • Perform work outside in all weather elements.
  • Support over time work hours as required.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.

Requirements

Required:

  • Must have vocational/technical training beyond high school from an academic institution or military equivalent training and at least 5 years of job-related experience.
  • Good communication and analytical skills and working knowledge of computer systems and integrated software application programs.
  • Possess planning/organizing skills and must be able to work under deadlines.
  • Must have current state drivers license, Class A license preferred.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Willing to work overtime.

Desired:

  • Knowledge of electrical theory.
  • Knowledge of photovoltaic (PV) equipment and functions.
  • Knowledge of generators.
  • Capable of troubleshooting photovoltaic (PV) and generator equipment.
  • Mechanical experience.

Education:

Must have vocational/technical training beyond high school from an academic institution or military equivalent training and at least 5 years of job-related experience.

Security Clearance:

Must be eligible to obtain a Secret clearance. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc. Incumbent must qualify for and maintain a government security clearance and must have a valid, current state driverโ€™s license.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Stock Option Plan