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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering Jobs in California

Metrology Programmer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$39 - $47/hr

Purpose The Metrology Programmer is an entry-level position designed for individuals interested in ... Clearly communicate non-conformances and inspection results to Manufacturing, Engineering, and ...

$73K - $136K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

May provide guidance and assistance to entry level professionals and/or support level employees ... Change Management: The candidate will utilize engineering and business software (Creo CAD, ...

Wheel Polisher

Ontario, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This is an entry-level manufacturing position , ideal for candidates with general machine ... We support customers across diverse industries with precision-engineered products. Our culture ...

DSP Algorithms Engineer (Entry-Level)

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing ... Summary Pay Range for Entry-Level -$79,050- $106,950 Language Requirements: Not Applicable ...

DSP Algorithms Engineer (Entry-Level)

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing ... Summary Pay Range for Entry-Level -$79,050- $106,950 Language Requirements: Not Applicable ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering information

See California salary details

$14

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$50

How much do entry level manufacturing engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing engineering in California is $30.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.07 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities an entry level manufacturing engineer may be assigned in their first year?

As an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer, you can expect to work on projects such as process improvement initiatives, troubleshooting production issues, and assisting with the implementation of new equipment or technologies. You'll likely collaborate closely with experienced engineers, production supervisors, and quality teams to analyze workflows and suggest optimizations. Early responsibilities often include data collection, creating process documentation, and supporting the launch of new products to ensure smooth manufacturing operations. This hands-on exposure is valuable for building technical skills and understanding plant operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectEntry Level Manufacturing EngineeringManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, process improvement, and project planning in manufacturing settingsHands-on equipment operation and maintenance on the factory floor
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies, engineering firmsFactories, production plants

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineers focus on designing processes and improving manufacturing systems, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance, typically with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering (typically mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing) and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes and quality control. Familiarity with CAD software, lean manufacturing principles, and ERP systems is often required, and certifications like Six Sigma Green Belt can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and address production challenges. These skills and qualifications are essential for optimizing manufacturing efficiency, ensuring product quality, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

What does an entry level manufacturing engineer do?

An entry level manufacturing engineer assists in designing, developing, and improving manufacturing processes and systems within a factory or plant. Their responsibilities often include supporting production lines, troubleshooting equipment or process issues, ensuring quality standards, and collaborating with other engineers or technicians. They may also help implement new technologies, gather data for process improvements, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. This role is typically supervised and provides opportunities to learn about manufacturing operations and engineering best practices.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineering jobs in California?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Manufacturing Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,277 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Metrology Programmer

Divergent

Torrance, CA • On-site

$39 - $47/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Divergent is a technology company that has architected, invented, built, and commercialized an end-to-end factory system called the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS) that comprehensively uses machine learning to optimally engineer, additively manufacture, and flexibly assemble complex integrated vehicle structures and subsystems. Products created using DAPS are superior in performance, lower in cost, rapidly customizable to meet mission and customer-specific requirements, faster to market, and scalable on demand to high volume production. Divergent is a qualified Tier 1 supplier to global automotive OEMs, and Divergent is now expanding to support mission critical needs in the Aerospace and Defense sector. Join us to be a part of this transformative journey, where your impact will shape the future of technology and production.

Purpose

The Metrology Programmer is an entry-level position designed for individuals interested in developing a career in 3D metrology and quality assurance. Under the guidance of experienced metrology professionals, the apprentice will learn to operate scanning equipment and extract advanced inspections.

The person hired into this role is expected to progressively develop measurement and programming skills throughout the program. With the experience gained from training, the Metrology Programmer will ultimately create and maintain templates across ZEISS Inspect, PolyWorks, and GOM/ATOS optical systems. In time, the programmer is expected to become an engineering resource capable of assisting investigations and answering part-condition questions alongside Manufacturing, Test, Automation, and Quality Engineering.

The Role
  • Develop knowledge of automated and manual scanning
  • Interpret and apply engineering documentation, including 2D drawings, 3D models, GD&T, and related specifications.
  • Complete fundamental trainings for inspection
  • Develop a holistic understanding of extracting engineering intent from data acquired by a scanner or CMM, collaborating with quality and manufacturing engineering as needed.
  • Learn program execution, workflow standards, and proper equipment use/maintenance.
  • Perform dimensional inspections using conventional tools to verify parts against CAD and engineering requirements.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet quality, throughput, and delivery targets.
  • Clearly communicate non-conformances and inspection results to Manufacturing, Engineering, and leadership.
  • Maintain and improve standard program libraries, templates, and best practices to elevate metrology capability.
  • Perform additional duties assigned to support overall quality objectives and cross-functional alignment.
Basic Qualifications
  • Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to US export controls
  • Excellent computer skills
  • Working knowledge of inspection and documentation procedures
  • Ability to interpret GD&T and engineering drawing
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
  • Aerospace manufacturing experience
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse team members
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to multi-task and streamline day-to-day operations.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Well demonstrated experience with 2D and 3D inspections using optical systems, such as Scanbox and Hexagon laser scanning systems.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related technical field.
  • CMM programming experience.
  • Python scripting
Work Environment
  • This role is based in a dynamic manufacturing setting and may require standing and handling precision equipment for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs.
  • Company Uniform must be worn while working.
  • PPE must be worn while working.
Compensation

At Divergent, our pay range is based on the level of the job. For this role, we will consider candidates at levels T01 - T02 as evaluated through our interview process.

  • Metrology Programmer I / T01: $34.00 - $41.00
  • Metrology Programmer II / T02: $39.00 - $47.00
Pay Range
$34—$47 USD

What We Offer:

  • Holistic Compensation Package: Enjoy a world-class compensation package that includes a competitive salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities, ensuring you're truly valued for your contributions.
  • Wellness and Time Off: Embrace a healthy lifestyle with paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays, including a year-end shutdown to recharge. We support growing families with paid parental leave, recognizing the importance of bonding time.
  • Comprehensive Health and Wellness: Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health and wellness benefits, offering both HMO and Premium PPO options. Additionally, benefit from company-sponsored life insurance and short and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind.
  • Investment in Growth: We're committed to your professional development. Take advantage of reimbursement opportunities for learning and development initiatives, empowering you to continuously expand your skill set and reach peak performance.
  • Collaborative and High-Performing Environment: Join our collaborative, dynamic, and high-performing team within a fast-paced, mission-driven company. Together, we're disrupting the traditional manufacturing industry, fostering innovation, and integrating people and technology to reduce our footprint.


Equal Employment Opportunity
Divergent is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected characteristic. Divergent provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
EEO Poster

In order to adjust to changes in our business, it may become necessary to add, remove or modify certain duties and responsibilities, or to reassign you to another job position. From time to time you may be asked to work on special projects or to assist with other work. Your cooperation and assistance in performing such additional work is expected.

E-Verify: Right to Work
Our company participates in E-Verify. E-Verify is a program that electronically confirms a candidate's eligibility to work in the United States after completing the Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9). The information provided on the Form I-9 is compared to the records contained in the Social Security Administration and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) databases. This helps employers verify the identity and employment eligibility of newly hired employees.
Eligibility to Work Poster (English) | Eligibility to Work Poster (Spanish)

Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance (FCIHO)
Pursuant to the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance (FCIHO), we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

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