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Entry Level Agricultural Engineer Jobs in California

The Junior Engineer classification is the entry-level class of the series. Incumbents perform ... Imperial County is a major agricultural center, producing half of the nation's winter vegetables ...

Assistant Engineer

El Centro, CA · On-site

$7.0K - $8.5K/mo

The Junior Engineer classification is the entry-level class of the series. Incumbents perform ... Imperial County is a major agricultural center, producing half of the nation's winter vegetables ...

Assistant Field Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Responsible for programming and annual budgeting submissions and ensures program accomplishments ... Supervise and train entry-level field technicians, youth conservation labor crews, and interns.

Assistant Field Manager

Colusa, CA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Responsible for programming and annual budgeting submissions and ensures program accomplishments ... Supervise and train entry-level field technicians, youth conservation labor crews, and interns.

Assistant Field Manager

Chico, CA · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Responsible for programming and annual budgeting submissions and ensures program accomplishments ... Supervise and train entry-level field technicians, youth conservation labor crews, and interns.

Tech II, Quality Lab

Kerman, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Full Time Nutrien is a leading provider of crop ... Help us raise the expectation of what an agriculture company can be and grow your career with ...

Entry Level Agricultural Engineer information

See California salary details

$55.3K

$82.5K

$114K

How much do entry level agricultural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level agricultural engineer in California is $82,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level agricultural engineer do?

An entry level agricultural engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing equipment and systems used in farming, food production, and land management. Their responsibilities typically include supporting senior engineers in creating solutions to improve agricultural processes, conducting field tests, preparing technical reports, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards. They may also be involved in data collection, analysis, and troubleshooting of existing agricultural machinery. This role provides hands-on experience and foundational knowledge necessary for advancing within the field of agricultural engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level agricultural engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Agricultural Engineer, you need a solid background in agricultural engineering principles, mathematics, and problem-solving, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in agricultural or biological engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, GIS systems, and industry-standard modeling tools is typically expected, and EIT (Engineer-in-Training) certification can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel when collaborating with farmers, scientists, and other engineers. These skills ensure you can design efficient solutions for agricultural challenges, optimize production, and contribute positively to sustainable farming practices.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level agricultural engineers, and how can new hires effectively navigate them?

Entry level agricultural engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fieldwork in varying weather conditions, learning to operate and troubleshoot specialized equipment, and balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines. New hires can navigate these challenges by actively seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, participating in hands-on training sessions, and staying organized with project management tools. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as the role frequently involves collaborating with farmers, agronomists, and other engineering team members to develop practical solutions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Agricultural Engineer vs Entry Level Soil Scientist?

AspectEntry Level Agricultural EngineerEntry Level Soil Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Agricultural Engineering or related fieldBachelor's in Soil Science, Geology, or related field
Work EnvironmentFarms, research facilities, engineering firmsLaboratories, field sites, environmental agencies
Employer & Industry UsageAgricultural companies, government agencies, research institutionsEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, consulting firms

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in a related field and involve work in agricultural or environmental settings. While agricultural engineers focus on designing and improving farming systems and equipment, soil scientists analyze soil properties and health. They often collaborate but serve different functions within the agriculture and environmental sectors.

How do you become an entry level agricultural engineer?

To become an entry-level agricultural engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in agricultural engineering, biological engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or cooperative education programs and developing skills in areas like CAD software, environmental systems, and farm machinery can improve job prospects.

How much do entry level agricultural engineers get paid?

Entry-level agricultural engineers typically earn a starting salary between $55,000 and $70,000 per year, depending on location, education, and employer. They often work with tools like GIS and CAD software and may require a bachelor's degree in agricultural or biological engineering.

Is it hard to be an entry level agricultural engineer?

Becoming an entry-level agricultural engineer involves completing a bachelor's degree in agricultural engineering or a related field, which provides foundational knowledge of engineering principles and agricultural systems. The job can be challenging due to the need for problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and sometimes fieldwork, but it is generally accessible to recent graduates with relevant education and internships.

Is there a demand for entry level agricultural engineers?

Entry level agricultural engineers are in steady demand due to the need for sustainable farming practices, food production, and environmental management. Employment opportunities are available in government agencies, research institutions, and private companies, often requiring knowledge of engineering principles, GIS tools, and environmental regulations.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Agricultural Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Agricultural Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Agricultural Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Agricultural Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Agricultural Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,456 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Civil Engineering Analyst - Zero Emission Vehicles

Kimley-horn

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

$100K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn's Pleasanton, California(CA) office is looking for Engineering graduates to join their Zero Emission Vehicles team in 2027. This is not a remote position. 

Responsibilities
  • Utilize technical software programs on a regular basis to analyze, produce, and QC deliverables for our clients. 
  • Contribute to the pre-construction civil engineering design, planning, modification, permitting, and analysis for small scale renewable generation, energy storage, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, transportation, aviation, and industrial projects 
  • Solve complex problems, assist project managers, and collaborate across disciplines to produce our clients' visions for the future built environment. 
  • Develop familiarity with the federal, state, and local regulations, as well as Kimley-Horn's and our client's practices, procedures, and standards. 
  • Analysts will learn one or more software programs specific to their disciplines: AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Excel, MicroStation, VISSIM, Open Roads, Synchro and/or GIS. 
Qualifications
  • An ABET accredited engineering degree (Bachelors or Masters) by Summer 2027 in one of the following majors:
    • Civil and/or Environmental Engineering
    • Mechanical, Electrical, Biological, Biosystems, Chemical, or Agricultural Engineering
    • Engineering Technology

Salary Range:

$100,000 - $104,000

Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967