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Entry Level Plant Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Carpenter Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$69K/yr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate opening for a 1st Shift Pouring Line Engineer at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on ...

Carpenter Canada Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$62 - $76/hr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate opening for a 1st Shift Pouring Line Engineer at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on ...

Arlon EMD

Intern

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

... Graduate (Entry Level) Takeaway: A hands‑on role supporting daily plant operations, workflow ... Bachelor's degree in any engineering discipline. * Strong communication, organization, and ...

HDR

Transmission Line Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Train and mentor junior and entry level engineers. * Coordinate work of the electrical design team ... , AutoCAD, Plant 3D, AutoPipe, and Revit) * An attitude and commitment to being an active ...

HDR

Transmission Line Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Train and mentor junior and entry level engineers. * Coordinate work of the electrical design team ... , AutoCAD, Plant 3D, AutoPipe, and Revit) * An attitude and commitment to being an active ...

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Entry Level Plant Engineer information

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How much do entry level plant engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level plant engineer 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 does an entry level plant engineer do?

An Entry Level Plant Engineer assists in the design, operation, and maintenance of manufacturing or processing plants. They typically help troubleshoot equipment issues, support process improvements, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Their role often involves working closely with senior engineers, plant managers, and maintenance teams to optimize plant efficiency and productivity. This position provides hands-on experience and training, serving as a starting point for a career in plant or industrial engineering.

What are some typical projects or tasks an entry level plant engineer might work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Plant Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with equipment installation, troubleshooting production issues, and supporting process improvement initiatives. You'll likely work closely with senior engineers and maintenance teams to learn about plant operations, safety protocols, and quality standards. In your first year, you'll also contribute to routine inspections, data analysis, and documentation to support efficiency and compliance. This collaborative environment provides valuable exposure to different engineering disciplines within the plant and helps you build a solid foundation for career growth.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving, and a relevant degree such as mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, plant management systems, and safety regulations is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking help you adapt to fast-paced environments and collaborate with diverse teams. These skills ensure efficient plant operations, safety compliance, and effective troubleshooting of technical issues.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plant Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Plant EngineerProcess Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, internshipsBachelor's in Engineering, internships
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, industrial facilitiesManufacturing, chemical, or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies, plantsProcess industries, chemical, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Plant Engineers and Process Engineers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments in manufacturing settings. While Entry Level Plant Engineers focus on overall plant operations, maintenance, and safety, Process Engineers concentrate on optimizing manufacturing processes. Both roles are essential in industrial industries and are frequently compared by job seekers seeking entry-level opportunities in manufacturing and process industries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Plant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plant Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,277 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

2027 - Entry Level Field Service Engineer

Solar Turbines Incorporated

San Diego, CA • On-site

$72K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

89th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
2027 Entry Level Field Service Representative
The Field Service Representative rotation is a 3-4-year program. The first year will be spent in training focused on a broad exposure to Solar's products and the Customer Service organization.
The training provided will be a combination of classroom and online training, significant hands-on training, structured on the job training in the field, and mentored controls system training at various Solar locations including:
San Diego, CA
  • Administrative modules

  • Safety Training

  • Gas Turbine Package Familiarization training

  • Control Systems training

  • Customer Services Experience

Mabank, TX
  • Principles & Applications of Control Systems

  • Borescope of Turbine Engines

  • Power Generation and Gas Compression

  • Rigging & lifting of large components

  • Alignment

  • Routine Maintenance and Troubleshooting

After the 1 year of classroom and hands on training, a commitment of 3 additional years at the hiring district offices as a Field Service Representative is required. At this time, a company vehicle to travel will be provided. This position requires significant travel and interface in customer facilities. Frequent communication with the customer and technical personnel is required while diagnosing turbine package and balance of plant related issues. In addition, a commitment to working safely and with little supervision in the field environment while maintaining a high degree of responsibility and professionalism is needed.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Will have received minimum of a bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Related Engineering degree by summer 2026.

  • Minimum overall GPA of a 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.

  • Must be willing and able to travel, relocate, and work overtime.

  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude experience.

  • 0-3 years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Able to work in extreme or adverse environments. High integrity and a high level of self-confidence.

  • Ability to handle stress and work in a high-pressure environment.

  • Communicate in a professional manner.

  • Previous Internship or related work experience with customer facing activities strongly preferred.

Summary Pay Range:
$72,360.00 - $108,540.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
July 23, 2026 - December 30, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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