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Director Of Design Engineering Jobs in Riverside, CA

Zephyr Rail

Director of Design Services

Orange, CA · On-site

$140/hr

The Opportunity We are seeking a Director of Design Services to lead the daily operations of our ... This role is pivotal to ensuring our engineering teams are well-managed, properly resourced, and ...

Everbright Atlas

Director of Design and Innovation

Irvine, CA · On-site

$166K - $204K/yr

Role Description Everbright Atlas is seeking a full-time, on-site experienced Design Director based in Irvine, CA to lead creative and technical product design across two primary areas of the ...

New

SHUR-CO

Director of Engineering

Menifee, CA · On-site

The Director of Engineering leads Heavy Motions' engineering and R&D function, including New ... Lead the design, development, validation, launch, and continuous improvement of hydraulic products:

Attalon

Design Engineering Manager

Tustin, CA

$117K - $211K/yr

... use of personnel, equipment, and resources. The Design Engineering Manager will also handle ... direct reports, promoting team growth and performance excellence. Minimum Qualifications • ...

Atln

Design Engineering Manager

Tustin, CA · On-site

$117K - $211K/yr

... use of personnel, equipment, and resources. The Design Engineering Manager will also handle ... Conduct performance reviews and provide mentorship for direct reports, promoting team growth and ...

Attalon, Inc.

Design Engineering Manager

Tustin, CA · On-site

$117K - $211K/yr

... use of personnel, equipment, and resources. The Design Engineering Manager will also handle ... Conduct performance reviews and provide mentorship for direct reports, promoting team growth and ...

Attalon, Inc.

Design Engineering Manager

Tustin, CA · On-site

$117K - $211K/yr

... use of personnel, equipment, and resources. The Design Engineering Manager will also handle ... Conduct performance reviews and provide mentorship for direct reports, promoting team growth and ...

TelemetryX

Director of Engineering

Irvine, CA · On-site

$225K - $255K/yr

Job Summary The Director of Engineering for Telematics Hardware and Embedded Software is responsible for the design, development, and lifecycle management of telematics hardware and embedded software ...

TelemetryX

Director of Engineering

Irvine, CA · On-site

$225K - $255K/yr

Job Summary The Director of Engineering for Telematics Hardware and Embedded Software is responsible for the design, development, and lifecycle management of telematics hardware and embedded software ...

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All JobsOf Design Engineering JobsDirector Of Design Engineering JobsDirector Of Design Engineering Jobs in Riverside, CA

Director Of Design Engineering information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$38.6K

$141.6K

$253.5K

How much do director of design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of design engineering in Riverside, CA is $141,637.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,200.00 and $170,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of design engineering do?

A Director of Design Engineering leads and oversees the design engineering team, ensuring that projects are developed efficiently and meet quality standards. They are responsible for setting the strategic direction for design processes, collaborating with other departments, and managing budgets and resources. This role often involves mentoring engineers, optimizing workflows, and driving innovation in product or system design. The Director of Design Engineering plays a key role in aligning technical solutions with business goals and customer needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of design engineering, and why are they important?

A Director Of Design Engineering requires a solid background in engineering principles, product development, and leadership, typically with a relevant engineering degree and significant industry experience. Expertise in CAD software, project management platforms, and familiarity with industry standards or certifications like PMP are commonly expected. Strong communication, strategic thinking, and team management skills set top candidates apart. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, ensuring project success, and leading multidisciplinary teams in a competitive market.

How does a director of design engineering typically collaborate with other departments to ensure project success?

A Director of Design Engineering regularly works cross-functionally with product management, manufacturing, marketing, and quality assurance teams to align engineering efforts with business objectives. This role often leads design reviews, coordinates feedback from various stakeholders, and ensures that technical solutions are feasible within project timelines and budgets. Effective communication and strong leadership are crucial, as the director must balance technical excellence with organizational needs and market demands.

What is the difference between Director Of Design Engineering vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDirector Of Design EngineeringMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, leadership experienceBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly some certifications
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, project oversight, cross-department collaborationDesign, analysis, testing, and development of mechanical systems
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveManufacturing, product design, automotive, aerospace

The main difference is that a Director Of Design Engineering oversees design teams and strategic projects, while a Mechanical Engineer focuses on designing and developing mechanical components. The director role involves leadership and management, whereas the engineer role is more technical and hands-on.

Are design engineers well paid?

Design engineers are generally well compensated, with salaries varying based on experience, industry, and location. They often require strong technical skills, proficiency in CAD software, and relevant certifications, which can influence earning potential.

How much does a director of design engineering make in the US?

A director of design engineering in the US typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles may include bonuses, stock options, and other benefits, reflecting leadership responsibilities and technical expertise in design and engineering management.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Director Of Design Engineering jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Director Of Design Engineering job openings:

Director of Design Services

Orange, CA • On-site

Zephyr Rail
Civil Engineering Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Zephyr Railexternal

$140/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead and manage the daily operations of the design group, including supervising and mentoring engineers, designers, and support staff.

  • Manage plan production, schedules, and deliverables to ensure high-quality designs that meet project requirements.

  • Oversee staffing, resource planning, and business management activities, including monitoring group financials and providing input for proposals.

Job description

About Zephyr Rail
Zephyr Rail is a nationally recognized rail and infrastructure consulting firm, delivering innovative engineering and design solutions for freight, commuter, and high-speed rail. We are committed to technical excellence, client success, and the professional growth of our staff.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Director of Design Services to lead the daily operations of our design group. This role is pivotal to ensuring our engineering teams are well-managed, properly resourced, and consistently delivering high-quality plans and designs for rail and infrastructure projects. This position is on-site, located in Orange, CA - presence at our headquarters is essential to manage staff effectively, oversee plan production, and maintain collaboration across teams.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and Manager Staff - Supervise and mentor engineers, designers, and support staff. Oversee assignments, workloads, and performance reviews.
  • Project Delivery - Manage plan production, schedules, and deliverables. Ensure design projects meet quality, budget, and client requirements.
  • Business Management - Monitor group financials, utilization, and manpower. Provide staffing and level-of-effort estimates for proposals and ongoing projects.
  • Collaboration - Partner with the VP of Design Services for technical guidance and client engagement while focusing on daily operations, staffing, and business oversight.
  • Quality and Innovation - Enforce QA/QC standards across design deliverables. Stay current with tools, technology, and best practices to drive efficiency.
  • Client and Proposal Support - Provide input for proposals, staffing plans, and resource needs. Support interviews and client pursuits as needed.
  • Strategic Contribution - Contribute to strategic planning for design group growth, resource development, and market competitiveness.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
  • 12+ years of experience in engineering design, including at least 4 years in management/supervisory roles.
  • Direct experience in engineering plan production.
  • Strong understanding of workload forecasting, resource planning, and project budgets.
  • Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Must be able to work on-site, daily at our Headquarters located in Orange, CA.

Preferred Qualifications
  • PE License in California (or ability to obtain).
  • Rail, transit, or infrastructure design project experience.
  • Experience managing medium to large design teams (20+ staff)

Compensation and Benefits
  • Base Salary - $140, 000 - $200,000 DOE.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance - 100% employer-paid for employees; 50% for dependents.
  • Retirement - 401K with employer match
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Sick Time

*No outside Agencies or Recruiters, please!
Explore more about us at www.zuirail.com or our careers page at www.zuirail.com/current-openings/
. If you do not see what you're looking for, please email your resume to us at [email protected] to potentially become a part of a top-ranked team dedicated to redefining standards in the rail engineering industry. We look forward to hearing from you!
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