ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Design Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Tartaglia Engineering

Be Seen First

Engineering Technician

Grover Beach, CA · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or ability to obtain within a reasonable timeframe * Experience using AutoCAD Civil 3D for civil engineering design and drafting * Internship or entry-level ...

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 ... Participate in design reviews and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams - including design ...

Hayward Lumber

Associate Truss Designer

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

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 ...

Hayward Lumber

Associate Truss Designer

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

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 ...

Hayward Lumber

Associate Truss Designer

Santa Maria, CA

$23 - $25/hr

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDesign Engineer JobsEntry Level Design Engineer JobsEntry Level Design Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Entry Level Design Engineer information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$30.8K

$71.1K

$121K

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

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level design engineer in Santa Maria, CA is $71,099.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $80,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA? For Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:
What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Entry Level Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Entry Level Design Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Design Engineer job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,099 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Civil Engineering | Engineer

RRM Design Group

San Luis Obispo, CA

$36.75 - $45.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description

Join the vibrant team at RRM Design Group - a powerhouse of innovation and creativity! As a 100% employee-owned company, we're not just a firm; we're a community of architects, engineers, landscape architects, planners, and surveyors. Throughout California, we undertake projects from conception to realization, resulting in authentic, innovative, and timeless designs that strive to make a lasting and positive impact on those who encounter them.
In our Civil Engineering department, adventure awaits as we tackle an exhilarating array of projects in land development. From building essential infrastructure to crafting breathtaking parks and trails, our team pushes boundaries and sparks change. Plus, you'll have the chance to work alongside brilliant minds across different disciplines, fostering innovation and unleashing your full potential.
Ready to embark on an exciting journey? Join us now as we seek entry to upper-level civil engineers to be part of our dynamic team. Let's create something extraordinary together!

Requirements

What you'll bring to the table:

Entry Level: Engineer I - Engineer II

  • A Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Work experience in Civil 3D.
  • 1 -3 years

Mid to Upper Level: Project Engineers - Project Managers

  • A Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Work experience in Civil 3D.
  • 5 -10 years
  • A valid California PE license is strongly preferred. Alternatively, candidates who have passed the national portion of the exam and are actively pursuing the CA portion are also encouraged to apply.


Above & Beyond:

Some work experience in architecture, engineering, surveying, landscape architecture, or planning firm.

We're eager to learn more about your qualifications and interest in joining our team!


*Psst...at RRM, we recognize that factors such as imposter syndrome or the confidence gap may deter some applicants from applying. However, we encourage you to apply anyways, as we recognize these restraints do not reflect an applicant's abilities, and we don't want them to get in the way of us meeting potential RRMers!


ABOUT US:


Ensuring the health and happiness of our RRMers is paramount to how we run our business. RRM Design Group is a 100% employee-owned multidiscipline design firm with a full spectrum of services including architecture, landscape architecture, planning, civil and structural engineering, and surveying. Our offices are located along the California coast from Orange County to the Bay Area. Over one-third of our workforce has been with us for a decade or more and we work on engaging projects in several diverse markets throughout the state.


We value the diversity of intersecting identities and strive to maintain an environment that is equitable, respectful, and inclusive. We expect our work environments to be places of diverse engagement and informed discourse. Ultimately, we acknowledge that our standards of excellence as a multidiscipline design firm are not separate from the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.


COMPENSATION: The hiring ranges below depend on skills and experience.

Engineer I - $36.75 -$40.88 per hour.

Engineer II: $41.00 - $45.75 per hour.

Apply