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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Downey, CA (NOW HIRING)

Hazen and Sawyer

Assistant Engineer I

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

We have an outstanding opportunity for a self-motivated entry-level engineer in our Sacramento office who enjoys teamwork and collaboration, technical challenges, and solving our clients' most ...

Johnson Service Group

Be Seen First

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

JSG is hiring an Entry Level - Recent Grad RF Test Tech / Electrical Engineer for our client in Cypress, CA. Pay rate: $25-$32 DOE Key Responsibilities * Perform electrical and RF testing of ...

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All JobsEngineer JobsEntry Level Engineer JobsEntry Level Engineer Jobs in Downey, CA

Entry Level Engineer information

See Downey, CA salary details

$31.2K

$72.1K

$122.7K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Downey, CA is $72,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,600.00 and $81,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is 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.

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 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 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.

How do I get into entry level 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; demonstrating problem-solving abilities and a willingness to learn are also important for employers.

What is the easiest entry level engineer job to get into?

Entry-level engineering roles such as manufacturing, technician, or quality assurance positions are often considered easier to obtain due to lower experience requirements and high demand. These jobs typically require basic technical skills, familiarity with tools or software relevant to the field, and sometimes a relevant certification or associate degree.

Why is it so hard to find an entry-level engineer job?

Entry-level engineering jobs are competitive because employers often seek candidates with relevant internships, project experience, or technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or specific tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree and sometimes certifications, which can limit the pool of qualified applicants and make entry into the field more challenging.
More about Entry Level Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Downey, CA?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Downey, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Downey, CA?

For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Downey, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in Downey, CA are:

What cities near Downey, CA are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities near Downey, CA with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Downey, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,132 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Entry-level Engineer, Fire Protection

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$83K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Do you want to help engineer what's next?
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) is a national engineering firm committed to delivering holistic advice for our clients' most complex challenges. We leverage our collective and diverse experience, technical expertise, and industry knowledge of structures and building enclosures, advanced analysis, performance & code consulting, and applied science & research to deliver unrivaled, comprehensive solutions that drive superior performance. With 800 employees in offices nationwide, SGH's industry-leading teams constantly seek to advance the meaning of what's possible.
What makes careers at SGH so special?
The only way to advance is to question and explore. Every member of the SGH team is both a learner and an educator, committed to advancing ourselves, our teams, and our industry. Together we are creating a community that never settles for what is but always seeks what could be.
There are many reasons to love SGH:
  • Our Work: Our clients trust us to bring clarity and deliver outstanding solutions for their most complex projects.
  • Our People: We are bold thinkers and compassionate teammates, committed to lifelong learning and professional growth.
  • Our Commitment: We live with integrity and embrace an obligation to give back to our professions and communities.
  • Our Contribution: We offer a comprehensive and rich compensation and benefits package with company-paid and voluntary programs to help build healthy lifestyles, strong relationships, and future prosperity.

We want someone passionate about fire protection and problem solving.
SGH is committed to expanding its practice in Fire Protection Engineering by hiring a motivated Fire Protection Engineer in our Los Angeles, CA office. The professional will work under the direction of multiple licensed fire protection engineering principals throughout the country to provide technical guidance and participate in design, rehabilitation, and investigation on fire engineering projects.
What You'll Do:
  • Provide fire protection engineering consulting services.
  • Guide the growth and development of the fire protection engineering group at SGH.
  • Manage the fire protection engineering staff.
  • Recommend strategies to keep SGH at the leading edge of relevant technologies.
  • Manage project work, including budgets, staff, and client relations.
  • Provide support for and participate in forensic and litigation activities.
  • Interface with building and fire officials.
  • Market fire engineering services and develop business for fire protection engineering.
  • Coordinate with other practice areas within SGH for the overall benefit of the company.
  • Attend and assume leadership roles in identified local and national professional organizations.
  • Prepare professional papers for publication.

What You'll Need:
  • BS or MS in Fire Protection Engineering required.
  • 0-2 years of experience in fire protection engineering.
  • Ability to obtain Professional Registration in fire protection engineering.
  • Smoke control testing experience is desired.
  • Extensive experience as project manager for different types of projects including building and fire code consulting; fire investigation, performance-based design and fire, smoke and egress modeling.
  • Working familiarity with fire and smoke modeling software.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Commitment to excellence and professionalism.
  • Commitment to embrace SGH's standards for work product delivery.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report.

Benefits Overview:
SGH provides the following benefits to eligible employees:
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation time, Sick leave, Holidays)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Profit Sharing and 401(k) plan with a discretionary company contribution
  • Health Insurance (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Short and Long-Term Disability (company paid)
  • Employee Basic Life and AD&D insurance (company paid)
  • Optional Life Insurance
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Fertility, Family Forming, and Hormonal Health benefit
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Empathy Bereavement Support
  • Pre-tax Commuter Benefit
  • AFLAC Accident & Cancer Insurance
  • Legal & Identity Theft plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Compensation:
This compensation range is a good faith estimate pursuant to applicable equal pay and pay transparency laws. The pay range below is effective for 2026 and based on highest degree achieved. The actual salary offered will be based on several factors including the candidate's experience, qualifications, and work location.
  • Bachelor's Degree: $79,560 - $81,640
  • Master's Degree: $83,200 - $85,280

Base salary is a part of SGH's industry leading Total Compensation package. Our Total Compensation package includes base salary, pay for extra hours worked, an annual discretionary bonus program, generous paid time off, and health and wellness benefits with a special emphasis on substantial SGH contributions to medical insurance premiums and SGH's Profit Sharing & 401(k) Plan.
This position is eligible for a $5,000 sign-on bonus.
Associate Project Consultant:
$79,560-$85,280 USD
SGH is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunities to all job applicants and employees. We consider all qualified applicants and encourage individuals with disabilities and protected veterans to apply. If the application system is not accessible to you, or you need a reasonable accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email jobs@sgh.com or call 781-907-9000 and ask for Human Resources.
TO ALL RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: SGH does not accept unsolicited agency resumes or candidate profiles. Please do not forward resumes or profiles for any of our job postings to our career site or to any Simpson Gumpertz & Heger employee. SGH is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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