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Development Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motive Companies

Development Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA

$1.7K - $2.3K/wk

Development Engineer Location: Santa Clarita, CA Weekly Pay Rate: $1,730.77 - $2,307.69 Industry: Motorsports / High-Performance Engineering A leading motorsports and high-performance engineering ...

Motive Companies

Development Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$1.7K - $2.3K/wk

Development Engineer Location: Santa Clarita, CA Weekly Pay Rate: $1,730.77 - $2,307.69 Industry: Motorsports / High-Performance Engineering A leading motorsports and high-performance engineering ...

First Solar

Development Engineer IV

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Plan, execute, and characterize development engineering experiments in a laboratory environment with strategic foresight, operating in close alignment with Technical Fellows and senior technology ...

Garrett Motion

Development Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$105K - $131K/yr

A Development Engineer is needed to assist in the design and industrialization of this product. Work includes end to end design to production, including direct communication with the customer and ...

Garrett Motion

Development Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$105K - $131K/yr

A Development Engineer is needed to assist in the design and industrialization of this product. Work includes end to end design to production, including direct communication with the customer and ...

Computer Futures

Development Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

They are seeking a Development Engineer to design and implement solutions for their Dev Ops architecture and lead a team in refactoring code and guiding project work. Responsibilities : • designing ...

Huntsman

Process Development Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

: Process Development Engineer Huntsman is seeking a Process Development Engineer supporting the Advanced Materials Division located in Los Angeles. This position will report to the Process Development ...

First Solar

Development Engineer II

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Plan, execute and characterize development engineering experiments in the laboratory. * Apply statistical and engineering methods to optimize organizational effectiveness. Improve methods for use by ...

First Solar

Development Engineer II

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Plan, execute and characterize development engineering experiments in the laboratory. * Apply statistical and engineering methods to optimize organizational effectiveness. Improve methods for use by ...

SpaceX

Process Development Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER - BUILD RELIABILITY The Process Development Engineer is responsible for developing and improving business processes and systems that enable SpaceX to design, build ...

First Solar

Development Engineer II

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$89K - $127K/yr

Plan, execute and characterize development engineering experiments in the laboratory and manufacturing environment with strategic foresight. Drives actions with strategic foresight. * Applies ...

First Solar

Development Engineer II

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$89K - $127K/yr

Plan, execute and characterize development engineering experiments in the laboratory and manufacturing environment with strategic foresight. Drives actions with strategic foresight. * Applies ...

SpaceX

Process Development Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER - BUILD RELIABILITY The Process Development Engineer is responsible for developing and improving business processes and systems that enable SpaceX to design, build ...

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All JobsDevelopment Engineer JobsDevelopment Engineer Jobs in California

Development Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.4K

$94.9K

$151.5K

How much do development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for development engineer in California is $94,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $105,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a development engineer?

Development Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test new products, processes, or systems in various industries such as technology, manufacturing, or automotive. They work closely with cross-functional teams to turn ideas and concepts into practical, market-ready solutions. Their responsibilities often include research, prototyping, troubleshooting, and optimizing existing products or processes. Development Engineers play a key role in innovation and ensuring the technical feasibility and quality of new developments.

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

To excel as a Development Engineer, you need strong analytical abilities, a background in engineering (typically a bachelor's degree or higher), and proficiency in product design and development principles. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and relevant industry certifications such as Six Sigma or PMP is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These capabilities are important because they enable the creation of innovative, high-quality products that meet technical standards and client needs.

How do development engineers typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Development Engineers frequently work alongside designers, product managers, quality assurance teams, and manufacturing specialists to bring projects from concept to completion. They participate in regular meetings to align on project requirements, address technical challenges, and integrate feedback from different departments. Effective communication and a collaborative mindset are crucial, as Development Engineers often serve as the technical bridge between teams, ensuring that the final product meets both functional and business goals.

What is the difference between Development Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDevelopment EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often in software, electrical, or systems fieldsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentProduct development, R&D, design teams, often in tech or manufacturing companiesDesign, analysis, testing, and manufacturing in industrial, automotive, or aerospace sectors
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, electronics, software companiesAutomotive, aerospace, industrial machinery, manufacturing
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in product development, software or hardware designDesigning mechanical systems, machinery, or components

Development Engineers focus on creating and improving products, often in software or integrated systems, while Mechanical Engineers specialize in designing and analyzing mechanical systems and components. Both roles require engineering degrees but differ in their focus areas and industries.

How much do development engineers make?

Development engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand sectors like technology and manufacturing.

What do development engineers do?

Development engineers design, develop, and test new products or systems, often working on improving existing technologies. They use engineering principles, CAD software, and prototyping tools, and typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure product functionality and quality.
More about Development Engineer jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Development Engineer jobs in California?

For Development Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Development Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Development Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Development Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Development Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Development Engineer jobs in CA?

For Development Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Engineer 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 $94,895 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Development Engineer

Motive Companies

Santa Clarita, CA

$1.7K - $2.3K/wk

Contractor

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Development Engineer

Location: Santa Clarita, CA
Weekly Pay Rate: $1,730.77 - $2,307.69
Industry: Motorsports / High-Performance Engineering

A leading motorsports and high-performance engineering organization is seeking a Development Engineer to support the design, testing, and validation of advanced powertrain technologies. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects from initial concept through production, helping to develop innovative solutions for high-performance automotive applications.

Position Summary
The Development Engineer will be responsible for creating and executing development plans for new concepts, components, and systems. This role supports the complete product lifecycle, including concept development, testing, validation, analysis, and production readiness. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in powertrain development and a passion for engineering excellence in a fast-paced motorsports environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute engineering development plans for new products, components, and technologies.
  • Support projects throughout the entire product lifecycle, from concept development through production implementation.
  • Design and coordinate test programs to validate component and system performance.
  • Create detailed test procedures, validation plans, and technical documentation.
  • Conduct testing, analyze results, and make recommendations based on data-driven findings.
  • Collect, interpret, and report test data to support engineering decisions and project goals.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to resolve technical issues and optimize designs.
  • Prepare technical reports and presentations for engineering reviews and management updates.
  • Assist in continuous improvement efforts related to testing methodologies, processes, and product performance.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
  • Emphasis in internal combustion engines, electrified powertrains, or related areas.
  • Coursework or experience in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and mechanical systems.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in powertrain development and testing.
  • Experience with: 
    • Test planning and execution
    • Validation and verification activities
    • Procedure development and documentation
    • Data acquisition systems
    • Test data analysis and reporting

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with powertrain and/or chassis dynamometer testing.
  • Familiarity with data logging hardware and software platforms.
  • Experience using test instrumentation and measurement systems.
  • Knowledge of internal combustion engine and electrified powertrain technologies.
  • Experience supporting product development in automotive, motorsports, or high-performance engineering environments.

Desired Skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
  • Ability to interpret complex technical data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proven ability to present technical information effectively to engineers, management, and cross-functional teams.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
  • Self-motivated team player with a passion for innovation and high-performance engineering.

Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of advanced motorsports and automotive technologies while working alongside a team of highly skilled engineers. If you're passionate about powertrain development, testing, and performance optimization, we'd love to hear from you.

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Education:Employment Type: CONTRACTOR

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