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Contract Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in California

Manufacturing Engineer III

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

The primary responsibility is to apply strong engineering and problem-solving skills to drive improvements in quality, delivery, cost and capacity in a contract manufacturing environment. This role ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

We're looking for a Manufacturing Engineer to own and execute wire harness programs from ... Experience in contract manufacturing or highmix production * Handson familiarity with harness ...

Staff Manufacturing Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$85K - $109K/yr

Support extended factory and contract manufacturer operations by providing technical guidance, troubleshooting support, and process standardization. * Review engineering changes (ECOs/ECNs) and ...

Staff Manufacturing Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$85K - $109K/yr

Support extended factory and contract manufacturer operations by providing technical guidance, troubleshooting support, and process standardization. * Review engineering changes (ECOs/ECNs) and ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

We're looking for a Manufacturing Engineer to own and execute wire harness programs from ... Experience in contract manufacturing or high‑mix production * Hands‑on familiarity with harness ...

We are actively looking for a Manufacturing Engineer II who can bring innovation and creative thinking to the team on catheter-based devices in a fast-paced medical contract manufacturing space. As a ...

Provide direction to contract manufacturing, suppliers, and engineers to manage quarantine and rework activities. Requirements * Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent) * 5+ years ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

We're looking for a Manufacturing Engineer to own and execute wire harness programs from ... Experience in contract manufacturing or high-mix production * Hands-on familiarity with harness ...

... contract manufacturer's factory Engage machine suppliers for automated equipment design reviews and proposals Travel to the machine supplier and contract manufacturer for equipment bring-up ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

The Manufacturing Engineer I will have a multi-functional roll to support development, design, and ... Interface with customers, suppliers, subcontractors, and contract manufacturers as needed * Spend ...

Showing results 41-60

Contract Manufacturing Engineer information

See California salary details

$46.9K

$84.5K

$118.4K

How much do contract manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract manufacturing engineer in California is $84,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges contract manufacturing engineers face when managing multiple vendor relationships?

Contract Manufacturing Engineers often juggle several vendor relationships simultaneously, which can present challenges in maintaining consistent quality standards, ensuring timely delivery, and managing clear communication across different teams. Balancing the expectations of internal stakeholders with the capabilities and constraints of external partners requires strong organizational and negotiation skills. Proactively addressing production issues and fostering transparent communication with vendors are key strategies for overcoming these challenges and ensuring project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract manufacturing engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and quality assurance, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and Lean or Six Sigma certifications are commonly required for overseeing production efficiency and compliance. Strong project management, problem-solving skills, and effective communication with both internal teams and external vendors make professionals stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing solutions and seamless collaboration across organizations.

What is the difference between Contract Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectContract Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six Sigma or LeanBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Six Sigma or Lean
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often project-specific, in manufacturing plants or supplier facilitiesFull-time, in manufacturing plants or corporate offices
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing firms, suppliers, contract manufacturersManufacturing companies, industrial firms, OEMs

Both roles require similar technical credentials and work in manufacturing environments. However, Contract Manufacturing Engineers focus on managing outsourced production projects, while Manufacturing Engineers oversee ongoing production processes within a company. The choice depends on whether the role is project-specific or continuous process improvement.

What is a contract manufacturing engineer?

A Contract Manufacturing Engineer is a professional who is hired on a temporary or project basis to manage and optimize manufacturing processes for a company. Their responsibilities often include designing efficient production systems, ensuring product quality, and collaborating with suppliers or contract manufacturers. They may also help with scaling production, troubleshooting issues, and implementing cost-saving measures. Contract Manufacturing Engineers are typically employed for their specialized expertise and flexibility, supporting organizations during periods of transition, growth, or when specific skills are needed.
What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California? For Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Manufacturing Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,492 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Advanced Manufacturing Engineer - Audio

Apple

Cupertino, CA

$133K - $246K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 677 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, we believe new ideas have a way of becoming phenomenal products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish.
Description
The Advanced Manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for developing and implementing cutting-edge manufacturing processes for Apple's next-generation Audio products. This role requires an experienced leader who can drive manufacturing automation innovation from concept to mass production, ensuring the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. You will be instrumental in bridging design and manufacturing, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in advanced manufacturing.","responsibilities":" Responsible for designing precision assembly and measurement processes for Apple products. Perform the research and development on new technologies necessary to tackle complex assembly and automation problems that have direct impact to the quality and delivery of Apple products.
Design, implement and successfully scale automated and semi- automated solutions based upon sound engineering principles and the technologies developed for a specific application.
Develop new and or improved processes through the application of theoretical and practical engineering
Provide direction and mentorship to third party machine/automation suppliers and/or CM’s; be the technical leader and driver on owned projects; serve as a technical resource to other engineering groups and project leaders
Organize cross-functional reviews of the machine requirements, design, qualification and capability
Create Request for Quotation/Proposal (RFQ/RFPs) that documents the design requirements of the automated equipment, delivery schedule, required documentation and qualification for acceptance at machine supplier facility and contract manufacturer’s factory
Engage machine suppliers for automated equipment design reviews and proposals
Travel to the machine supplier and contract manufacturer for equipment bring-up, qualification, acceptance testing and support during build events
Drive machine qualification including correlation, process capability (CP/CPK) and Gage Repeatability / Reproducibility (GR&R)
Drive failure analysis and machine issue resolution when working with machine suppliers and contract manufacturers
Run equipment experiments to bound the capability of the machine
Responsible for data analysis reports to communicate machine capability to the multi-functional teams
Performs assignments in several of the following manufacturing engineering functions:
Design for Manufacturability: Provide early and on going manufacturing involvement to ensure new products are mechanically manufacturable.
Product Engineering: Works all phases of a product from concept to repeat manufacturing to end of life. Provides production support engineering with respect to technically complex testing methods, procedures and failure analysis.
Process Engineering: Designs and develops technically complex processes to improve quality and efficiency. Utilize statistical tools (such as GR&R, SPC and Cp/pCk) to ensure processes/fixtures are scalable and are continuing to perform properly once qualified.
Failure/Data Analysis: Plans, develops and implements technically complex procedures for the testing and evaluation of soon to be released products.
Ability to travel internationally up to 30-35%
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree or greater in a relevant engineering discipline.
Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies.
Experience in adhesive dispensing, Automated Optical Inspection (AOI), fastening, metal and plastic welding, high-speed pick and placing, automated flex handling, packaging, and other automated assembly processes.
Experience working with international manufacturing partners and supply chains.
Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, NX) and simulation tools.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Robotics/Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering
Pay & Benefits
At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $133,500 and $246,200, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses - including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976