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Entry Level Aerospace Engineering Jobs in California

Firefly Aerospace

Fluids Launch Engineer I

Lompoc, CA · On-site

This is an entry level position that will assist the senior fluids engineers in the operation ... Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related engineering ...

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All JobsAerospace Engineering JobsEntry Level Aerospace Engineering JobsEntry Level Aerospace Engineering Jobs in California

Entry Level Aerospace Engineering information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$68.5K

$116.5K

How much do entry level aerospace engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level aerospace engineering in California is $68,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry-level aerospace engineer?

As an entry-level aerospace engineer, you will typically support senior engineers on projects such as designing, testing, and analyzing aircraft or spacecraft components. Your daily tasks may include creating CAD models, running simulations, reviewing technical documentation, and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress. Collaboration is common, as you'll work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers. Over time, you may take on more complex assignments and gradually increase your responsibility within the team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Aerospace Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Aerospace Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (like CATIA or SolidWorks), MATLAB, and simulation tools is commonly expected, along with knowledge of relevant industry standards. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this collaborative and technically demanding field. These competencies are vital for designing safe, innovative aerospace systems and contributing effectively to multidisciplinary project teams.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

In aerospace engineering, high salaries reaching or exceeding $500,000 annually are typically associated with senior roles such as aerospace engineering managers or chief engineers, especially those working in leadership positions or in the defense and space sectors. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and management responsibilities, and may include bonuses or profit sharing that contribute to total compensation.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced aerospace engineers, especially those in senior management or specialized roles such as aerospace project directors or chief engineers, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often working in leadership positions within aerospace companies or defense contractors.

What does an entry level aerospace engineer do?

An entry level aerospace engineer typically assists in designing, testing, and evaluating aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to analyze data, develop technical reports, and support the creation of prototypes. Responsibilities may also include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, performing calculations, and helping ensure projects meet safety and quality standards. This role is ideal for recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the aerospace industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aerospace Engineering vs Aerospace Technician?

AspectEntry Level Aerospace EngineeringAerospace Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and development in offices or labsHands-on assembly, maintenance, and testing in labs or manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, aerospace companies, government agenciesManufacturers, maintenance facilities, aerospace service providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level engineering roles in aerospaceTechnical roles supporting aerospace systems

Entry Level Aerospace Engineering focuses on designing and analyzing aerospace systems, requiring a bachelor's degree. Aerospace Technicians perform hands-on maintenance and testing, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the aerospace industry but differ in education, responsibilities, and work environment.

What are entry-level aerospace engineering jobs?

Entry-level aerospace engineering jobs typically include roles such as aerospace engineer, design engineer, or test engineer, often requiring a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. These positions involve tasks like designing aircraft or spacecraft components, performing simulations, and supporting testing processes, with proficiency in CAD software and knowledge of industry standards. They usually offer on-the-job training and opportunities for professional development.

Is 3.3 a good GPA for aerospace engineering?

A 3.3 GPA for an entry-level aerospace engineering position is generally considered acceptable, especially if complemented by strong technical skills, internships, or project experience. Employers often look for a GPA of 3.0 or higher, but practical experience and relevant skills can be equally important in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Aerospace Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in California? For Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Aerospace Engineering job openings:
Entry Level Aerospace Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Aerospace Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,454 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Entry-Level Floor Shop Technician (manufacturing, welding, machining, aerospace) - ONSITE

GP Strategies Government Solutions Inc

Chatsworth, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description

Come make an impact in the Public Sector! Join our team to do meaningful work and support high-impact government missions.


GP Strategies Government Solutions, Inc. Government Training Solutions | GP Strategies, a wholly owned subsidiary of GP Strategies Corporation, focuses on helping every public sector team unlock its full potential through people performance solutions. 

Our work directly supports mission critical government agencies, including:

  • Air Force
  • Army
  • Department of Defense (DoD)
  • Department of Health & Human Services (HHS)
  • Department of Homeland Security
  • NASA
  • National Highway Institute (NHI) | Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
  • State & Local Governments

Our Mission is meaningful and powerful: to deliver innovative people performance through off the shelf and custom learning, mission specialists, and technology solutions, building deep partnerships with customers to help them achieve measurable mission and company performance improvements.


GP Strategies Corporation, the corporate parent of GP Strategies Government Solutions, is a global leader in talent transformation, dedicated to empowering organizations to unlock their full potential. We help businesses enhance workforce performance and achieve strategic goals through innovative, technology-enabled learning solutions. For over 50 years, with a proven track record of supporting over 6,000 global organizations worldwide, we combine human expertise with AI-driven insights to deliver customized strategies that upskill talent, drive technology adoption, and optimize critical processes. 


We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Shop Technician to join our aerospace team at the Chatsworth facility. This hands-on role focuses almost exclusively on shop-floor activities, supporting the fabrication, assembly, testing, and maintenance of tubing and piping systems for aerospace applications. You will work closely under the guidance of senior technicians and the engineering team, contributing to high-reliability projects while learning industry best practices. This position offers excellent on-the-job training for individuals eager to build a career in aerospace manufacturing and field support.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Fabricate, bend, assemble, and install tubing and piping systems (hydraulic, pneumatic, propellant, or similar) using hand tools, fixtures, and basic shop equipment under senior supervision.
  • Support pressure testing operations, including setup, execution, monitoring, and documentation of hydrostatic or pneumatic tests in accordance with engineering procedures and safety standards.
  • Assist with field work preparation and on-site support as needed, including packing, loading, and basic installation/troubleshooting activities.
  • Maintain shop organization: implement and follow quality shop control systems for tool calibration, equipment organization, inventory tracking of consumables, and general housekeeping to ensure a safe and efficient workspace.
  • Perform basic inspections, measurements, and documentation using calipers, micrometers, pressure gauges, and other shop tools to verify work meets specifications.
  • Use Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) to log work orders, record test results, update checklists, and communicate with the team.
  • Collaborate with engineers and senior technicians on prototype builds, fit checks, modifications, and continuous improvement efforts in the shop.
  • Travel up to 25% of the time (typically short trips for field installations, customer support, or supplier coordination).
  • Adhere to all safety protocols, aerospace quality standards, and company procedures while working in a manufacturing/shop environment.

Qualifications & Requirements:


Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Associate degree or certificate in a technical field (e.g., manufacturing, welding, machining, or aerospace technology) preferred but not required for entry-level candidates.

Technical Skills:

  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) for documentation and communication.
  • Willingness and ability to learn tube fabrication techniques (bending, flaring, fitting installation), pressure testing, and shop best practices quickly.

Other:

  • Must be available to travel approximately 25% of the time.
  • Strong attention to detail, reliability, and eagerness to learn in a team-oriented setting.
  • Excellent safety awareness and commitment to quality.
  • U.S. Person status may be required (ITAR compliance).

What We Offer

Competitive salaried compensation for entry-level aerospace shop roles

Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO)

Hands-on training and mentorship from experienced senior technicians and engineers

Opportunity for rapid skill development and career progression in aerospace manufacturing

Stable, full-time role with meaningful contributions to high-reliability aerospace systems


This entry-level position is perfect for someone ready to dive into hands-on aerospace work, gain practical experience in tubing/piping fabrication and pressure systems, and grow within a supportive team environment.

Requirements

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally and handle heavy components safely with assistance when needed.
  • Comfortable working full-time in a shop/manufacturing environment (exposure to noise, dust, chemicals, pressurized systems, and machinery).
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the facility for extended periods.
  • Willing and able to use basic hand tools (wrenches, tube benders, flaring tools, torque wrenches, drills, etc.) safely and effectively.

 At GP Strategies Government Solutions culture focuses on performance and revolves around respect, fairness, and working collaboratively to achieve our goals. We support our People, no matter who they are or where they are from, because we all have valuable and unique perspectives and approaches. That's how great ideas are born, which enable us to work smarter.


GP Strategies Government Solutions is committed and proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other federally protected class.


GP Government Solutions is a subsidiary of GP Strategies Corporation, a global workforce-transformation company with over 50 plus years of experience. To find out more, please visit us as 

https://www.gpstrategies.com/industries-we-serve/government/

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