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

Leidos

High-Speed Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Leidos' Defense Systems Advanced Development Organization is seeking an entry-level to early career systems engineer specializing in Value-Driven Design (VDD), Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE ...

CalAmp

Engineer I, Test

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

They are seeking an entry level Test Engineer to support internal telematics device testing tools and data platforms within the Vehicle Engineering group. Responsibilities : • Develop code to ...

Sundt

Field Engineer I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$63K - $94K/yr

Step I is the entry level for individuals with a minimum of experience in this position. Key Responsibilities 1. Assists Project Engineer in developing and maintaining as-built drawings and other ...

New

Sundt Construction, Inc.

Field Engineer I

San Diego, CA

$63K - $94K/yr

Step I is the entry level for individuals with a minimum of experience in this position. Key Responsibilities 1. Assists Project Engineer in developing and maintaining as-built drawings and other ...

New

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

Entry Level Engineer information

See Encinitas, CA salary details

$32.2K

$74.5K

$126.7K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Encinitas, CA is $74,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,300.00 and $84,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 personal projects, and learning industry tools like CAD or MATLAB, can improve your chances. Certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) can also demonstrate your commitment and knowledge to employers.

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.

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 specific technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or industry-standard tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fields, and the limited availability of entry-level roles can make the job search challenging for new graduates.

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 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.

More about Entry Level Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Encinitas, CA? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Encinitas, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineer jobs in Encinitas, CA? For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Encinitas, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Encinitas, CA are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs? Cities near Encinitas, CA with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Encinitas, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,501 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Engineering-Structural - Entry-Level

KPFF Consulting Engineers

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Company Description
KPFF has been an industry leader in civil and structural engineering for over 60 years, working with architects, developers, contractors, and industry innovators to realize our client's vision for a successful project. We hire people who are creative, highly skilled, and who approach each job with passion, integrity and in the best interest of the client.
KPFF offers a work environment that fosters innovation and the exchange of ideas without the limitations of hierarchy. This flat structure is the basis for our unique approach to building rewarding relationships with our clients and each other. We also acknowledge the need for a balanced integration of work and life and offer a competitive, well-rounded benefits package that includes 401k matching, choice of overtime pay or comp time, and paid family leave.
Job Description
The KPFF San Diego Office is accepting applications for motivated structural engineers! While there may not be an immediate vacancy, we invite interested candidates to submit their resumes for consideration as roles become available. We are looking for individuals who want the freedom to chart their own career path in a dynamic, growing office, with the support and backing of a large, national firm. We are looking for candidates with a desire to be great, a solid technical background and a team-oriented mentality.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • BS Degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in structures
  • Understanding of structural engineering mechanics and behaviors

Highly Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Structural Engineering, or Civil/Architectural Engineering with an emphasis in Structures
  • PE Licensure

If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your cover letter, resume and references (2-3). If you are a recent graduate, please also attach your transcript.
In your cover letter (PDF) please respond to the following prompts:
  1. Describe a time when you were assigned a project or task that turned out to be Challenging. How did you work through it, and what was the outcome?
  2. Who has most influenced you and why?

Additional Information
The salary range for this position is $77,000-$87,000 plus bonus. Salary depending on education, experience & licensure.
For more information on KPFF, please visit our web site at http://www.kpff.com.
Qualified applicants only. No phone calls and no recruiters please.
KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.

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