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Entry Level Computer Engineer Jobs in Encinitas, CA

Actalent

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA

$32 - $34/hr

Experience in Inventor as a 3D CAD tool is beneficial. * Exposure to engineering analysis tools, FEA, or prototype testing is beneficial. * Experience with sheet metal design using SolidWorks is ...

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All JobsComputer Engineer JobsEntry Level Computer Engineer JobsEntry Level Computer Engineer Jobs in Encinitas, CA

Entry Level Computer Engineer information

See Encinitas, CA salary details

$32.2K

$74.5K

$126.7K

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer engineer in Encinitas, CA is $74,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,300.00 and $84,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level computer engineer do?

As an entry-level computer engineer, your job is to help code and test hardware and software for your company. In this role, you may evaluate system requirements, make recommendations about computer purchases, and respond to technical support requests throughout the company. Entry-level computer engineers often focus on learning more about the unique operating environment of their employer, including any unique hardware or software the company uses. Senior computer employers often supervise your work, especially at companies that use this job as an extended training position. Other details of this job vary by company. For example, some computer engineers focus on cloud systems, while others help install new workstations.

What are some typical projects or tasks an entry level computer engineer can expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry level computer engineer, you'll likely be involved in supporting more senior engineers with tasks such as debugging hardware or software, conducting system tests, writing and maintaining code, and assisting with documentation. You may also help design and prototype circuit boards, work on firmware updates, or contribute to integration projects. Collaborative work is common, so expect to participate in team meetings and cross-functional projects, which is a great opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues and understand the broader workflow of product development.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Engineer, you need a solid understanding of computer hardware, software fundamentals, and programming languages like C++ or Python, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with development environments, version control systems (such as Git), and basic circuit design tools is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional candidates apart. These skills enable engineers to efficiently develop, troubleshoot, and collaborate on technology solutions in dynamic, innovation-driven environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Computer Engineer vs Entry Level Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Computer EngineerEntry Level Software Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, certifications like Cisco or CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering, certifications like Microsoft or AWS
Work EnvironmentHardware labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsOffice settings, coding environments, software development teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, telecommunicationsSoftware firms, tech startups, IT departments
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in tech hardware and systemsCommonly compared for software development careers

Entry Level Computer Engineers typically focus on hardware, embedded systems, and system integration, working in environments that involve physical components. In contrast, Entry Level Software Developers primarily work on coding, software applications, and programming tasks. Both roles require a bachelor's degree and relevant certifications, but their work environments and industry focus differ significantly.

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What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs in Encinitas, CA?

For Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs in Encinitas, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Encinitas, CA are hiring for Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs?

Cities near Encinitas, CA with the most Entry Level Computer Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Engineer job openings in Encinitas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,501 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Associate Controls Engineer - Entry Level 2026

Solar Turbines Incorporated

San Diego, CA • On-site

$72K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
Job Description
Solar Turbines Incorporated, headquartered in San Diego, California, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. Solar manufactures the world's most widely used family of mid-sized industrial gas turbines, ranging from 1 to 23 megawatts. Solar is a leading provider of energy solutions, featuring an extensive line of gas turbine-powered compressor sets.
Job Summary:
Solar Turbines Inc. is looking for a motivated, creative, high performing entry-level engineer to join the Custom Solutions Engineering Value Stream team.
The Engineering Value Stream is a dynamic project execution environment where you, and your Mentor, will collaborate with multiple engineering disciplines with the goal of supporting our Customers and Manufacturing.
The ideal candidate for this position would be an early talent Electrical Engineer, Computer Engineer or Mechanical Engineer, with an interest in electrical equipment design and software programming/testing to control electro-mechanical systems.
Job Accountabilities:
Job duties include the design of electrical hardware and control systems for gas turbines, power generators, natural gas compressors, and methane emissions reduction systems. Primary deliverables include electrical schematic drawings and control software (ladder logic) for programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
Initial accountabilities may include Software Test whereby candidate would be exposed to how the system operates via simulation software. This position requires coordinating with various organizations within Solar Turbines, including direct interface with external customers. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are imperative.
The successful candidate will collaborate in an Engineering Value Stream with up to 10 other engineering disciplines. Having the ability to work well with a team, paying attention to detail with a focus on quality, and the drive to deliver on time is critical to this position. A sense of urgency and organizational skills are required to work with multiple projects and competing priorities.
Additional duties include supporting field personnel during commissioning and the resolution of safety critical risk assessments. This position provides opportunities to travel to support Customer Design Review meetings, Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) meetings, and support installed equipment in the Field.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering
  • GPA 2.8 or above

Top Candidates Have:
  • The successful candidate will have educational and/or experience-based exposure to electrical equipment design and control software for PLC applications.
  • Direct experience with programming PLCs and Windows-based Human Machine Interface (HMI) systems is a plus. Knowledge of Turbomachinery Electrical Loop Schematics, Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and Control Systems is highly desired.

Compensation & Benefits
Actual salary will be based on experience. The total rewards package, beyond base salary includes:
  • Annual incentive bonus plan*
  • Medical, dental and vision coverage starting day 1
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holiday, Volunteer, Etc.)
  • 401(k) Savings Plan including company match
  • Health savings account (HSA)
  • Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
  • Short and long-term disability coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts
  • Career Development

Summary Pay Range:
$72,360.00 - 108,540.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
August 25, 2026 - August 31, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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