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Entry Level Materials Engineer Jobs in California

Mechanical Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$68K - $72K/yr

Job Summary The Mechanical Engineer I is an entry-level engineering role responsible for supporting ... materials, specifications, and reports Engineering Change & Configuration Support Support ...

Opportunity Summary The Plant Engineer, entry level supports the safe, reliable, efficient, and ... materials, with exposure to fumes, extreme temperatures, and noise. Work may include high heat near ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Materials Engineer information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$99.4K

$155.9K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level materials engineer in California is $99,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level materials engineer do?

An entry level materials engineer assists in designing, testing, and analyzing materials used to create a wide variety of products, such as metals, plastics, ceramics, and composites. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers to conduct experiments, evaluate material properties, and support the development of new materials or processes. Their responsibilities may include preparing samples, collecting and interpreting data, and helping to solve technical problems related to materials. This role is crucial for ensuring products meet safety, quality, and performance standards.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Materials Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, engineering principles, and analytical problem-solving, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in materials engineering or a related field. Familiarity with lab testing equipment, materials characterization software, and CAD tools is commonly required. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and keen attention to detail help you excel when collaborating on projects and presenting technical findings. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the development of safe, reliable, and innovative materials solutions within engineering teams.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level materials engineer expect in their first year?

As an entry level materials engineer, you will typically assist in testing and analyzing materials, preparing reports on findings, and supporting senior engineers in ongoing projects. Common responsibilities include conducting laboratory experiments, helping select appropriate materials for specific applications, and collaborating with manufacturing teams to improve product quality. You may also participate in troubleshooting production issues and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building foundational skills and understanding the workflow of multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Materials Engineer vs Materials Technician?

AspectEntry Level Materials EngineerMaterials Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Materials Science or EngineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification in materials or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and development in labs or officesTesting and inspection in labs or manufacturing settings
Industry UsageResearch, development, and product designQuality control and material testing

Entry Level Materials Engineers focus on designing and analyzing materials, often working in labs or offices, while Materials Technicians perform testing and quality checks on materials in manufacturing environments. Both roles require related educational backgrounds, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Materials Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Materials Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Materials Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Materials Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Materials Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,419 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

$41K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (OTS) is a global leader in the design, engineering and production of munitions, energetics, weapons, armaments, and missile subsystems around the world. OTS empowers the U.S. military and its allies with an extensive range of overarching product segments applied across all levels of strategic and tactical operations, providing a cutting-edge advantage to our warfighters.
Our Ethos of Honesty, Trust, Transparency, and Alignment, are the guiding principles that form the foundation of everything we do. Integrity is paramount, innovation fuels our passion, customer satisfaction is at the core of our mission, and collaboration is key to our success - fostering a culture of teamwork and mutual respect among employees, partners, and stakeholders.
Whether you're just starting out on your career journey or are an experienced professional, we offer a robust total rewards package that goes above and beyond with compensation; healthcare, wellness, retirement, and work/life benefits that include career development and recognition programs.
If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Coordinates incoming and outgoing movement and storage of raw materials, finished products and parts that include functions such as warehousing, shop and delivery services to ensure material availability and delivery when needed to meet production schedules | Compiles data on order volume, production schedules and forecasts and applies statistical methods to estimate future materials requirements
General Profile
  • Acquires basic skills to perform routine tasks
  • Work is prescribed and completed with little autonomy
  • Works with either close supervision or under clearly defined procedures
  • Entry level to a business support career progression
  • Performs manual tasks according to established procedures

  • Performs clerical duties associated with materials management.
  • Receives, stocks, and distributes materials, supplies, and equipment.
  • Stores and labels materials in an orderly manner.
  • Drafts reports regarding production progress, inventory levels, and materials costs.
  • Inspects stock items for defects and reports all instances of damage to supervisors.
  • Compares inventory records with physical counts of stock to ensure accuracy, reporting discrepancies when they arise.

      • Required education and experience: High School Diploma/GED required and 0-3 years' experience OR Equivalent Combination of Relevant Education &/or Experience
      • Critical professional related technical skills; computer skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

      • Preferred education and experience: Associate's Degree
      • Knowledge, skills & abilities: Ability to understand and follow directions. Organizational skills. Clerical skills. Detail oriented.

      • Must be able to remain in a stationary position at a desk and/or computer for extended periods of time.
      • Requires regular movement throughout GD-OTS facilities.
      • Work primarily in a climate-controlled environment with minimal safety/health hazard potential.

      No or very little travel likely.
      $41,650.00 - $56,350.00
      The salary range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum for salary for this position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, internal equity, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the range during the hiring process.
      Hired applicant may be eligible to participate in the Companys Gain Sharing Program.
      Employees are eligible for medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, and basic life insurance as well as pre-tax spending accounts. Employees are also able to enroll in the company's 401k plan and are eligible for the Non-Contributory Retirement Contribution. In addition to the benefits discussed above, the company offers the following voluntary benefits: Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Identify Theft Protection, Enhanced Legal Services, Auto and Home Insurance, Pet Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Educational Assistance.
      The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. The statements do not represent an exhaustive list of required responsibilities and skills. Other duties may be added or this job description may be amended at any time. This job description does not alter an employee's at-will employment status or create an employment agreement or contract, implied or otherwise.