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Entry Level Engineering Jobs in Santa Maria, CA (NOW HIRING)

Aurex

Systems Engineer

Lompoc, CA · On-site

From entry-level engineers to mission program leads, we create space for every employee to thrive. Our work is complex, our standards are high, and our support systems are built to help you rise ...

City of San Luis Obispo

Engineer I-III

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$82K - $121K/yr

... and Engineering Standards for review and approval by the City Engineer and adoption by the Council. Assists with training and work review of entry level staff. Oversees or assists with asset ...

Redwire Defense Tech

Systems Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

SUMMARY We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Systems Engineer to support the development and integration of complex UAV systems. This role is ideal for early-career engineers ...

New

City of San Luis Obispo

Firefighter

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

... John). Entry-Level Applicants Lateral Applicants Required: CA State Firefighter I Academy ... Under general supervision of a Fire Engineer or Fire Captain, the Firefighter serves citizens ...

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 ... Generate material lists and pricing estimates once truss systems are engineered, ensuring timely ...

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 ... Generate material lists and pricing estimates once truss systems are engineered, ensuring timely ...

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 ... Generate material lists and pricing estimates once truss systems are engineered, ensuring timely ...

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All JobsEngineering JobsEntry Level Engineering JobsEntry Level Engineering Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Entry Level Engineering information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$30.8K

$71.1K

$121K

How much do entry level engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineering 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 is an entry level engineer?

Entry level engineering jobs are positions designed for recent graduates or individuals with limited professional experience in the engineering field. These roles typically involve assisting senior engineers with projects, performing basic technical tasks, and gaining hands-on experience in a specific engineering discipline such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. Entry level engineers often receive on-the-job training and mentoring to develop their skills and advance their careers. These roles serve as a foundation for future growth and specialization within the engineering industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level engineer?

As an entry-level engineer, you’ll typically begin by supporting more senior engineers on a variety of projects, which may include drafting designs, running simulations, conducting data analysis, or assisting with testing and troubleshooting. Your daily tasks will often involve collaborating with team members, participating in meetings, and learning industry-specific tools and software. Over time, you'll gain more responsibility, such as managing small project components or communicating directly with clients. This role is designed to help you build foundational technical skills while gaining exposure to different aspects of engineering within your organization.

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 solid educational background in engineering fundamentals, strong problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in mathematics, usually obtained through a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, industry-specific modeling programs, and basic project management systems is typically expected. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you integrate into engineering teams and adapt to new challenges. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate technical work, smooth collaboration, and ongoing professional development in a dynamic engineering environment.

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

AspectEntry Level EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; often requires licensure for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level positions in offices, labs, or manufacturing plantsDesign, analysis, testing in offices, labs, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, construction, technology companiesManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Entry Level Engineering typically involves foundational engineering tasks with a bachelor's degree, often in various disciplines, and is used across many industries. Mechanical Engineering is a specialized field focusing on design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, often requiring specific technical skills and licensure for advanced roles. Both roles share similar work environments but differ in specialization and scope.

How to get hired as an entry-level engineer?

To get hired as an entry-level engineer, candidates should obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, develop practical skills through internships or projects, and demonstrate proficiency with industry tools and software. Building a strong resume that highlights technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience increases employment prospects. Certifications such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) can also enhance job opportunities.

How to 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, certifications, or personal projects can improve your chances, and demonstrating proficiency with tools like CAD or programming languages can be beneficial for entry-level candidates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

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

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

Entry Level Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineering job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,099 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Civil Engineering | Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

RRM Design Group
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about RRM Design Groupexternal

$36.75 - $45.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 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.

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