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Design Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GlobalFoundries is a leading full-service semiconductor foundry providing a unique combination of design, development, and fabrication services to some of the world's most inspired technology ...

New

Design Engineer

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$87K - $102K/yr

Engineering Design & Development Performs system evaluation, mechanical design, equipment modification, and process development to support product and operational improvements. * Research & Technical ...

Own the design, development, and qualification of ordnance systems, including initiators, detonators, transfer charges, explosive bolts, safe‑and‑arm devices. * Define requirements and interface ...

Design Product Manager

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$202K/yr

The ideal candidate will have deep industrial design development knowledge in a technical environment. If you are a team player who is passionate about the design process and bringing products to ...

Showing results 41-60

Design Development information

See California salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do design development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for design development in California is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is design development?

Design development is a phase in the architectural and design process where initial concepts are refined into detailed plans and specifications. During this stage, designers work out the specifics of materials, dimensions, systems, and aesthetics, often collaborating with engineers and consultants. The goal is to translate ideas from the schematic design phase into precise documentation that can be used for construction. This stage helps ensure that the project is feasible, meets client needs, and complies with regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in design development?

To thrive in Design Development, you need a solid background in design principles, project management, and a relevant degree such as architecture, industrial design, or engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and design documentation systems is typically expected. Strong collaboration, problem-solving, and communication skills help you effectively translate concepts into practical solutions and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for delivering innovative, functional designs that meet client needs and project requirements.

What are some common challenges faced in a design development role and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Design Development often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with practical constraints like budget, timeline, and client requirements. Navigating feedback from multiple stakeholders and ensuring that design intent is maintained throughout the development process can also be demanding. These challenges can be addressed by fostering strong communication within cross-functional teams, maintaining detailed documentation, and using iterative design reviews to ensure alignment. By staying adaptable and solution-oriented, design development specialists can help bridge the gap between concept and execution.

What is the difference between Design Development vs Design Engineer?

AspectDesign DevelopmentDesign Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, architecture, or related fieldBachelor's or master's in engineering, design, or related discipline
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams, design studios, project sitesEngineering offices, manufacturing plants, project sites
Industry UsageArchitecture, product design, industrial designMechanical, civil, electrical engineering projects

Design Development focuses on refining and evolving design concepts, often involving creative and aesthetic decisions. Design Engineers apply engineering principles to develop functional, safe, and manufacturable products or systems. While both roles require technical knowledge, Design Development emphasizes creative design progression, whereas Design Engineers focus on technical feasibility and engineering solutions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Design Development jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Design Development jobs?

Cities in California with the most Design Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,814 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Senior Satellite Design Engineer for Fastwater Staffing

HIKINEX

Long Beach, CA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Your Mission on the Team:

You will be responsible for the overall design and development of satellites for the Meridian Space constellation, from concept through on-orbit operation. This includes top level design, risk and cost assessment, systems engineering, testing and operations. As part of a small team tackling ambitious challenges, you'll take full ownership of satellite performance in orbit - driving each phase of development to ensure mission success and dependable service delivery.

Basic Qualifications:

  • 5+ years professional design/development experience in satellite systems.
  • Proven experience as a leader on at least one satellite program.
  • Skill in using and creating software tools to model systems performance across a variety of disciplines (MATLAB, Python, Excel, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of satellite technologies, design principles, and concepts of operations
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or related field
  • Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 10+ years professional design/development experience in satellite systems
  • Master's degree in Electrical or Systems Engineering, or related field
  • Previous experience with spacecraft and/or space mission top level design
  • Previous work on small LEO satellites
  • Breadth of experience leading satellite systems development and testing
  • Experience with creating satellite simulations and models
  • Satellite operations experience
Employment Type: CONTRACTOR

Hikinex logo

About Hikinex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hikinex is a multi-channel integrated service provider designed to help Companies scale fast and drive more profit. We leverage diverse resources to provide Superior services at a fraction of the cost.

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

2016

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