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Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

This entry-level position is ideal for a detail-oriented individual with strong technical skills ... Utilize CAD and component engineering software daily; must be comfortable working on-screen for ...

This entry-level position is ideal for a detail-oriented individual with strong technical skills ... Utilize CAD and component engineering software daily; must be comfortable working on-screen for ...

This entry-level position is ideal for a detail-oriented individual with strong technical skills ... Utilize CAD and component engineering software daily; must be comfortable working on-screen for ...

Support development engineering activities involving prototype hardware, specialized test equipment ... Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office, email, and electronic documentation systems.

Support installation and integration of new hardware and software components. * Administer, monitor ... Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field ...

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Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$112.2K

$149.1K

$183K

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer hardware engineer in Santa Maria, CA is $149,142.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,000.00 and $175,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer job?

An Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer designs, tests, and develops computer hardware components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, and peripherals. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to improve system performance and troubleshoot hardware issues. Their responsibilities may also include collaborating with software engineers to ensure compatibility between hardware and software. Typically, they are employed by technology companies, hardware manufacturers, or research institutions. This role requires a background in electrical or computer engineering and proficiency in hardware design tools.

What are typical projects or tasks for entry-level computer hardware engineers?

Entry-level computer hardware engineers are often involved in tasks such as assisting in the design and testing of circuit boards, performing system integration, and supporting senior engineers with troubleshooting and validation. They may also be responsible for documenting test results, updating schematics, and conducting research on new components or technologies. Team members frequently work together to prototype hardware solutions, address technical challenges, and ensure products meet performance and safety standards. This collaborative environment provides valuable on-the-job learning and exposure to the full hardware development lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer, you need a solid understanding of digital and analog circuits, computer architecture, and a bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with hardware design tools like Verilog/VHDL, PCB layout software, and proficiency in using oscilloscopes or logic analyzers are often required, along with relevant internships or lab experience. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure you can contribute to the design, testing, and troubleshooting of hardware systems while collaborating smoothly with multidisciplinary teams.

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:
What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,142 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Launch Engineer I (Fluids Mechanical)

Launch Engineer I (Fluids Mechanical)

Firefly Aerospace

Lompoc, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Firefly Aerospace rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACE
Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company on a mission to reliably and repeatedly launch, land, and operate space systems from Earth to the Moon and beyond. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the first commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the first company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.
SUMMARY
The Launch team is hiring for high-impact, dynamic engineering positions for those who thrive on solving real problems in diverse environments. We are looking for a propulsion and fluids systems engineer to join the team responsible for all aspects of the launch pad propellant and pneumatic systems. This position will grow in responsibility to take ownership of a segment of these systems in all aspects of operation, maintenance, testing and upgrades. This position will validate and execute the performance of these systems during launch operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • This is an entry level position that will assist the senior fluids engineers in the operation, maintenance and testing of the launch pad fluids and pneumatic systems. This position will grow in scope and responsibility as the candidate obtains hands-on experience with all aspects of launch pad operations.
  • Participate in design reviews and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams - including design engineers, technicians, external partners, and site personnel - to drive fluids system upgrades, streamline operations, and validate system readiness and performance for launch campaigns.
  • Support launch pad system and flight vehicle system integrity testing to validate system health, performance and readiness for launch campaigns.
  • Lead troubleshooting efforts, resolve any issues and non-conformances that arise during operations/testing, and support anomaly investigations
  • Opportunities to perform launch console operations or launch day close out team activities
  • Write procedures for system operation, maintenance, and vehicle testing operations.
  • Develop and execute maintenance strategies that maximize system availability and minimize downtime between missions.
  • Collaborate with customers, external stakeholders, and design teams to ensure interoperability and compliance with regulatory and range safety requirements.
  • Provide technical write-ups for systems upgrade proposals or tailoring of regulations.
  • Ability to work with Fluids and Mechanical GSE team members with limited supervision to achieve project or testing objectives. Write work instructions and supervise the execution of field work in service of the launch pad fluid and pneumatic systems.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related engineering discipline
  • 0 - 2 years of hands-on experience with fluids systems, pneumatic systems, mechanisms, hydraulic systems, tooling, flight hardware or test operations
  • Experience designing, building, troubleshooting and/or operating complex fluid or pneumatic systems in an operational or project environment.
  • Ability to create and interpret engineering documentation including drawings, P&ID schematics and test data.
  • Able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high pressure fast-paced environment
  • Ability to self-motivate and take the initiative to ensure your systems are functional and operating at peak performance
  • Ability to adapt to shifting project and/or scope change requirements
  • Ability to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely to technical and non-technical audiences
  • Comfortable working in launch site environments with field testing, lifting equipment, and hazardous materials

Launch Engineer I - $93,950.00 - $107,000.00
Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short term disability, pet Insurance, and flexible PTO options.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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