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Entry Level Equipment Engineer Jobs in California

Salas O'Brien

Entry-level Mechanical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for ... Provide support in the selection and evaluation of materials, components, and equipment processes ...

Muon Space

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

San Jose, CA

$142K - $169K/yr

... and test equipment, physics simulations, customer-facing APIs and services, user interfaces ... Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training, and then to ...

Peak Energy

Controls & Automation Engineer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

This is an entry-level to junior-level, individual-contributor role focused on supporting the ... Partner with Equipment Engineers to help integrate automation solutions into new and existing ...

Peak Energy

Controls & Automation Engineer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

This is an entry-level to junior-level, individual-contributor role focused on supporting the ... Partner with Equipment Engineers to help integrate automation solutions into new and existing ...

Waev Inc

Entry Level Electric Vehicle Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$72K - $83K/yr

Tiger heavy-duty tow tractors have been towing cargo, baggage, parcel, and other equipment in ... JOB SUMMARYThe Entry Level Electric Vehicle Engineer will be responsible for the design and release ...

RoviSys

Entry Level Engineer/Developer - 2027

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$83K - $87K/yr

... success! Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ... Use P&ID, Equipment Lists, I/O Lists and Process Descriptions to define control schemes for clients.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsEquipment Engineer JobsEntry Level Equipment Engineer JobsEntry Level Equipment Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Equipment Engineer information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$68.5K

$116.5K

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level equipment 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 does an entry level equipment engineer do?

An Entry Level Equipment Engineer is responsible for assisting in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of equipment and machinery used in manufacturing or production environments. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to ensure that equipment operates efficiently and meets safety standards. Their tasks may include performing routine inspections, helping with repairs, and documenting equipment performance. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to gain hands-on experience in the field.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Equipment Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a relevant bachelor's degree such as mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, equipment diagnostics tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing or semiconductor industry systems is often expected. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and a willingness to collaborate set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for efficiently maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing complex equipment in fast-paced technical environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level equipment engineers in their first year on the job?

As an entry level equipment engineer, you may encounter challenges such as learning to troubleshoot unfamiliar machinery, adapting to fast-paced production environments, and quickly understanding complex technical documentation. New engineers often need to balance hands-on maintenance tasks with administrative duties like logging equipment performance data and coordinating with technicians or vendors. Building effective communication skills and learning to prioritize tasks are key to overcoming these challenges and excelling in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Equipment Engineer vs Entry Level Manufacturing Technician?

AspectEntry Level Equipment EngineerEntry Level Manufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, certifications varyHigh school diploma or associate degree, technical certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesign, troubleshoot, and maintain equipment in manufacturing settingsOperate machinery, perform routine maintenance on production lines
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, industrial plants, engineering firmsFactories, production facilities, assembly lines

While both roles support manufacturing operations, Entry Level Equipment Engineers focus on equipment design and troubleshooting, requiring engineering degrees. In contrast, Entry Level Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance, often with technical or associate degrees. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Equipment Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Equipment Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Equipment Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Equipment Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Equipment Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Equipment Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Equipment Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Equipment Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Equipment Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,454 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Entry-level Mechanical Engineer

Salas O'Brien

San Jose, CA • On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 454 rated engineering

Job description

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer
At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That's why we're committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.
Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career-and they'll receive great total rewards along the way.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Entry-level Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate will assist in the design, analysis, and testing of mechanical components and systems, contributing to the development of innovative products and solutions. This role provides an excellent opportunity for professional growth and hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Design and Development:
    • Assist in the design and development of mechanical components, systems, and products
    • Participate in brainstorming sessions and contribute to innovative engineering solutions.
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure design requirements are met.
  • Analysis and Testing:
    • Conduct basic engineering calculations and analysis (e.g., heat loads, air flows) to ensure the integrity and performance of designs.
    • Support the troubleshooting and optimization of mechanical systems.
  • Documentation and Reporting:
    • Prepare and maintain detailed engineering documentation, including design specifications, plans, and reports.
    • Assist in the preparation of technical presentations and project status updates.
  • Project Support:
    • Collaborate with senior engineers and project managers to ensure timely completion of project milestones.
    • Provide support in the selection and evaluation of materials, components, and equipment processes.
    • Assist in quality control and assurance processes during production.

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Educational Background:
    • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • Skills:
    • Basic understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
    • Experience in AutoCAD and Revit software preferred but not required
    • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
    • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
    • Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience:
    • Internship or co-op experience in a mechanical engineering role is a plus, but not required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., ASHRAE, IMC).
  • Basic knowledge of HVAC Design.

Location:
Office: San Jose, CA
Travel: 20% to 40% to mainly local client sites.
Compensation & Benefits
The expected base salary range for this role is $75,000 - $85,000 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses, equity participation, and a comprehensive U.S.-based benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Third-Party Agency Notice
Salas O'Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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