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Entry Level Electronics Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Entry Level Electronics Engineer information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$42K

$91.1K

$140.9K

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level electronics engineer in Santa Maria, CA is $91,122.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $112,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level electronics engineer do?

An entry-level electronics engineer works to design manufacturing prototypes and conduct research. As an entry-level electronics engineer, you assist in the creation, testing, and troubleshooting of products. You work with a team of engineers to research and conduct electrical analysis on an electronic device. Your responsibilities may involve the design of new parts and components, which you help create based on research and analysis. As an entry-level electronics engineer, you can find work in any manufacturing industry that utilizes electrical systems or equipment, including navigation systems or power generation equipment.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Electronics Engineer, you need a solid grasp of circuit design, electronics fundamentals, and a bachelor's degree in electrical or electronics engineering. Familiarity with CAD tools like Altium Designer or Eagle, simulation software such as SPICE, and understanding of industry standards are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate design, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration on engineering projects.

What kinds of projects do entry level electronics engineers typically work on, and how much independence can I expect in my first year?

As an entry level electronics engineer, you'll often contribute to tasks such as circuit design, testing prototypes, troubleshooting hardware, and assisting with documentation under the guidance of more experienced engineers. Initially, you'll likely work as part of a collaborative team, receiving mentorship and gradually taking on more independent responsibilities as you gain confidence and familiarity with company processes. Expect a mix of hands-on technical work and learning opportunities, with increasing autonomy as you demonstrate your skills. Regular collaboration with other engineers, technicians, and sometimes cross-functional teams is common in this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Electronics Engineer vs Electronics Technician?

AspectEntry Level Electronics EngineerElectronics Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in electronics or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of electronic systemsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electronic equipment
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, tech companies, manufacturingManufacturing plants, service providers, repair shops

While both roles involve working with electronics, Entry Level Electronics Engineers focus on designing and developing electronic systems, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Electronics Technicians typically handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, usually with technical certifications. The roles differ mainly in responsibilities and educational requirements, but both are essential in the electronics industry.

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Electronics Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Electronics Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Entry Level Electronics Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Entry Level Electronics Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Electronics Engineer job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,122 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Electronic Assembler (First Shift)-Los Osos, California

Oceano, CA

Rantec Power Systems, Inc.
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Rantec is hiring for entry-level Electronic Assemblers! Training provided with starting pay at $21 per hour!
Are you interested in electronics, detail-oriented, willing to learn, and enjoy hands-on work?
Come join our team! Based in Los Osos, California, located along California's scenic Central Pacific coastline, Rantec offers many outstanding benefits, the following are a few:
  • Competitive wages
  • Great benefits - i.e. Medical (PPO, HSA), Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Vacation - 2 weeks to start, Holidays, PSL
  • Tuition Assistance
  • 401K with matching up to 6%,
  • Peer-to-Peer recognition and Years of Service Awards.
  • We have every other Friday off as we are on the 9/80 schedule
  • Free catered lunch on the Friday/payday that we work. Voluntary overtime hours available.

Position Summary
Under general supervision, perform a variety of manufacturing assembly tasks in accordance with product documentation. This role covers a large variety of electronic assembly tasks, processes, soldering, machine operation, material uses, operating equipment, and hand tools. Team members may work at several workstations, on product that is typically 'shoe box' sized. Employees in this role must be able to learn and grow within the manufacturing team.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform assembly of electronic components, subassemblies, and final products using small hand tools, electronic screw drivers, general adhesive staking, and soldering equipment.
  • Read and interpret assembly instructions, product drawings, bill of materials (BOM), and job order travelers.
  • Conduct visual inspections of workmanship.
  • Document work performed and complete required production records accurately.
  • Follow established safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized workspace.
  • Collaborate with quality control and manufacturing engineering teams to resolve assembly or product issues.
  • Identify and recommend process improvements to increase efficiency and product reliability.
  • Ability to work flexible hours and/or different shifts, as required.
  • Ability to work in a safe professional manner adhering to all regulatory requirements including OSHA, EPA, State and Federal Regulations.
  • As the Company's success relies on the productivity of our team and adherence to customer product schedules, an essential function of this position is the ability to arrive to work on-time, and work each day, as scheduled.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Follow assembly drawings and work instructions
  • Minimal computer skills to support timekeeping and accessing data in MRP/ERP system
  • Manual dexterity to effectively use hand tools while performing assembly tasks
  • Mechanical ability to operate assembly equipment
  • Strong work ethic and organizational skills to meet demands of fast-paced work environment under production schedules

Rantec is an upper-tier designer and manufacturer of power supplies for the military and aerospace markets. We are an engineering-based company, with expertise in all aspects of power supply design, manufacturing and test.
Salary: $21.00 Hourly
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Rantec is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or status as a protected veteran. Rantec will consider requests for reasonable accommodation from applicants with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs. If you require accommodation during the application process, please contact [email protected].
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