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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Syska Hennessy Group

Plumbing Engineer I

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $113K/yr

We currently have an entry level opportunity for a Plumbing Engineering Graduate. Our dynamic work environment provides the optimal setting to start your career. From our supportive culture, diverse ...

Harris Group

Associate Electrical Engineer

Lafayette, CA · On-site

This is an exciting opportunity for an entry-level Engineer to learn and grow! Harris Group offers a competitive compensation and benefits package and a friendly, flexible, collaborative culture that ...

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All JobsEntry Level Engineer JobsEntry Level Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Engineer information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$68.5K

$116.5K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry level engineering roles typically do not pay $10,000 a month without advanced education or significant experience. High-paying jobs that reach this level often require specialized skills, certifications, or experience in fields like software development, sales, or entrepreneurship, rather than entry-level positions. Most roles offering such salaries involve advanced training or industry-specific expertise.

How do I get into engineering with no experience?

Entry level engineering positions often require a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Gaining practical skills through internships, co-op programs, or certifications in tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB can improve your chances. Building a strong foundation in math and science and developing problem-solving skills are also important for entry into engineering roles.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level engineers often face challenges such as adapting to new tools and technologies, understanding company-specific processes, and translating theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. It's also common to navigate working on multidisciplinary teams and learning effective communication with colleagues from different backgrounds. With guidance from mentors and proactive engagement, these challenges become valuable learning experiences that contribute to professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as CAD tools, MATLAB, or project management platforms, as well as relevant internships or certifications, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in a dynamic environment. These skills ensure you can contribute to projects, adapt to organizational needs, and grow professionally in the engineering field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships helpfulBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; licensure optional for some roles
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, manufacturing plants, construction sites, labsDesign, testing, manufacturing, research and development
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions across various engineering sectorsMid to senior roles, but entry-level positions are common in manufacturing and design firms

Entry Level Engineers typically have a bachelor's degree and gain hands-on experience through internships. They work in diverse environments like design firms and manufacturing plants. Mechanical Engineers, while often requiring similar credentials, may start in entry-level roles but are more specialized in mechanical systems. Both roles are common in engineering industries, but the term 'Entry Level Engineer' is broader, encompassing various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering.

What is an entry level engineer?

An entry level engineer is a recent graduate or someone with minimal professional experience who works in engineering roles under supervision. They assist with basic engineering tasks, learn company procedures, and gain practical experience in their field. Entry level engineers often participate in training, collaborate with experienced professionals, and gradually take on more responsibility as they develop their skills.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level engineering positions typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, which can be obtained at any age. Many engineers start their careers later in life, and skills such as problem-solving, technical knowledge, and certifications can be developed at any age to enter the profession.

What Is the Job Description for an Entry-Level Engineer?

An entry-level engineer designs, builds, and maintains the functional aspects of a product, structure, or system for their specific engineering industry. All engineers start out in an entry-level position with fewer responsibilities until they gain work experience. Many start gaining experience through an internship or apprenticeship before moving into an entry-level position. An entry-level engineer job description relates to all of the education requirements, skills, detailed tasks, responsibilities that a company or organization requires for their specific engineering job. For example, civil engineers design, construct, and maintain large infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and airports. Electrical engineers design, monitor, and test electrical systems.

Do entry-level engineering jobs exist?

Yes, entry-level engineering jobs are widely available across various industries such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. These roles typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field and may involve tasks like design, testing, or project support, often with opportunities for skill development and certification.
More about Entry Level Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 92% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,454 per year, or $32.9 per hour.
Civil Engineering | Engineer

Civil Engineering | Engineer

RRM Design Group

San Juan Capistrano, CA

$36.75 - $45.75/hr

Other

Posted 20 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

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.


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