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Entry Level Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Civil Design Engineer

Santa Ana, CA ยท On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

S. in Civil Engineering with 1 to 3 years' experience in civil engineering field. (Entry level also considered) * E.I.T. certification preferred. * Proficiency in computer design programs AutoCAD ...

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Entry Level Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$68.5K

$116.5K

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

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level design engineer 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and deliver accurate designs. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable and innovative engineering solutions that meet project requirements.

What are some common challenges new Entry Level Design Engineers face during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry Level Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to industry-specific software, understanding project requirements, and effectively communicating design ideas to both technical and non-technical team members. Building strong relationships with mentors, proactively seeking feedback, and dedicating time to learn design tools and standards can help ease the transition. Embracing a growth mindset and actively participating in team discussions can also accelerate learning and confidence in the role.

What does an Entry Level Design Engineer do?

An Entry Level Design Engineer assists with creating and developing designs for products, structures, or systems, often under the supervision of senior engineers. They typically use computer-aided design (CAD) software to draft blueprints, modify existing designs, and perform basic engineering calculations. Their role may also involve collaborating with manufacturing teams, preparing documentation, and ensuring designs meet required standards and specifications. This position provides hands-on experience and learning opportunities for those starting their engineering careers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Design Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Design Engineer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 75% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,454 per year, or $32.9 per hour.
Civil Design Engineer

Civil Design Engineer

Tait & Associates, Inc.

Corona, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Grade the Land, Channel the Flow โ€” Design Tomorrowโ€™s Infrastructures with TAIT
Why TAIT?

  • Accelerated Growth โ€” hands-on mentorship and quick advancement
  • Impactful Projects โ€” land development, infrastructure, sustainable design
  • Collaborative Environment โ€” partner with architects and engineers across TAIT
  • People-First Culture โ€” Top Workplace since 2016
  • Work-Life Balance โ€” start accruing vacation and enjoy holidays from day one
Level up your engineering journeyโ€”join TAIT and design whatโ€™s next.
Role at a Glance
TAIT is seeking a Civil Design Engineer to support land-development projects from preliminary layout through final plan production. Youโ€™ll tackle grading, drainage analysis, street design and widening, plus water, sewer, and storm-drain systems. Day-to-day work includes Civil 3D modeling, earthwork calculations, and preparing SWMPs, drainage studies, and utility reports alongside an experienced engineering team.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Transform initial rough product design information into working construction documents using AutoCAD.
  • Use AutoCAD software to establish horizontal and vertical alignments, profiles, cross sections and perform earthwork calculations.
  • Utilize AutoCAD and Civil 3D in preparation of plans for drainage, precise grading, water, sewer, storm drain, street improvements and site planning for land development projects.
  • Prepare engineering drawings to specified standards.
  • Design basic construction documents and prepare special exhibits and constraint maps using field data and engineering research.
Minimum Qualifications
  • B.S. in Civil Engineering with 1 to 3 yearsโ€™ experience in civil engineering field. (Entry level also considered)
  • E.I.T. certification preferred.
  • Proficiency in computer design programs AutoCAD 2009 or newer, Civil 3D and Hydrology Hydraulics software.
  • Experience with commercial-retail projects a plus.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.

Salary and Benefits
Salary range for position: $60,000/yr - $80,000/yr

Benefits

TAIT invests in you by providing a comprehensive compensation and benefits program along with the opportunity for professional growth and development. Our benefits package includes valuable and affordable options for health, dental, vision, employer paid life insurance, 401(k) with match, generous paid time off and other supplemental benefits. TAITโ€™s core value is its culture of kindness. With this, youโ€™ll find a family-oriented environment and flexibility to manage work and life with a rewarding career. Here are some benefits you can find when you join the TAIT Team:

  • Flexible Work Schedule Options - Remote, Hybrid, In-Person
  • Medical options including PPO and HDHP with Health Savings Accounts (no extra charges for spouse or dependent coverage)
  • Dental Plans with little to no deductible
  • Vision PPO plan thatโ€™s accepted widely from local offices to large retailers
  • Company paid Life Insurance
  • ID Theft Protection & Monitoring
  • Voluntary Life, Accident and Critical Illness plans
  • Dependent Care and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Retirement plan 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid time off to relax and recharge with vacation, holidays, and sick time.
  • Annual memberships with Strava and Headspace for additional health and wellness benefits
  • Maternity and Paternity leave time options to care for the newest little family members
  • Support for professional growth and development.
  • Corporate Lodging Program (CLC)

______________________________________________________________

TAIT is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin or any other legally protected status. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the company will make reasonable accommodations to assist in the application process upon the request of an applicant. No question on this application is intended to secure information to be used for discriminatory purposes.

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