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Entry Level Product Development Engineer Jobs in California

Elco Lighting

Be Seen First

Product Development Engineer

Vernon, CA · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

As a Product Development Engineer at Elco Lighting, you will play a pivotal role in the entire product lifecycle, from concept generation to final production. You will collaborate with cross ...

Micron Technology

Product Development Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $193K/yr

Leverage in-house engineering equipment to support product characterization and electrical fault analysis. Develop high-quality and cost-effective mobile DRAM testing strategies. Utilize state-of-art ...

Micron

Product Development Engineer

San Jose, CA

$145K - $193K/yr

Leverage in-house engineering equipment to support product characterization and electrical fault analysis. Develop high-quality and cost-effective mobile DRAM testing strategies. Utilize state-of-art ...

Orbotech

HPC Product Development Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$95K - $161K/yr

Work closely with multi-functional teams-including hardware engineering, software development, and system integration-to learn how Windows-based systems are deployed and supported in production ...

Kla

HPC Product Development Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$95K - $161K/yr

Work closely with multi-functional teams-including hardware engineering, software development, and system integration-to learn how Windows-based systems are deployed and supported in production ...

KLA

HPC Product Development Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$95K - $161K/yr

Work closely with multi-functional teams-including hardware engineering, software development, and system integration-to learn how Windows-based systems are deployed and supported in production ...

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All JobsProduct Development Engineer JobsEntry Level Product Development Engineer JobsEntry Level Product Development Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Product Development Engineer information

See California salary details

$39K

$86.7K

$130.8K

How much do entry level product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level product development engineer in California is $86,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects or tasks that an Entry Level Product Development Engineer might work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Product Development Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of tasks such as assisting with prototype design, conducting product testing, and collaborating with cross-functional teams like marketing and manufacturing. You may also help in analyzing customer feedback, documenting technical specifications, and supporting the development of new features or product iterations. Early on, you'll likely work under the guidance of senior engineers, which provides a great opportunity to learn industry best practices and gradually take on more responsibility as you gain experience.

What does an Entry Level Product Development Engineer do?

An Entry Level Product Development Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing new products or improving existing ones. They work closely with senior engineers and cross-functional teams to bring product ideas to life, often using computer-aided design (CAD) software and prototyping tools. Responsibilities may include conducting research, analyzing data, and supporting product launches. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in the engineering field, helping to bridge the gap between concept and finished product.

What is the difference between Entry Level Product Development Engineer vs Product Designer?

AspectEntry Level Product Development EngineerProduct Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Mechanical, Electrical, or related fieldBachelor's in Design, Graphic Design, or related field
Work EnvironmentEngineering teams, R&D labs, manufacturing settingsDesign studios, user research environments, collaborative offices
Industry UsageManufacturing, technology, consumer productsConsumer electronics, apparel, digital products
Common Search IntentUnderstanding engineering roles in product developmentUnderstanding design roles in product creation

The Entry Level Product Development Engineer focuses on designing, testing, and improving products from an engineering perspective, often working closely with manufacturing. In contrast, Product Designers emphasize user experience, aesthetics, and usability, often working in creative and user-centered environments. Both roles are essential in product creation but differ in their focus and skill sets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Product Development Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Product Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a relevant degree such as Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and basic knowledge of product lifecycle management (PLM) systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability help you collaborate across departments and respond to evolving project demands. These skills and qualities are critical for efficiently translating ideas into viable products while meeting technical, cost, and timeline objectives.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Product Development Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Product Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Product Development Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,733 per year, or $41.7 per hour.
Product Development Engineer

Product Development Engineer

Elco Lighting

Vernon, CA • On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

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Job description

Job description:

As a Product Development Engineer at Elco Lighting, you will play a pivotal role in the entire product lifecycle, from concept generation to final production. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, develop, and test innovative lighting solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers work.

  • Responsibilities:*
  • Lighting Design & Development:*
  • Conceptualize, design, and develop innovative lighting products, including LED fixtures, controls, and systems
  • Apply knowledge of photometry, optics, and thermal management to optimize lighting performance.
  • Engineering & Prototyping:*
  • Create detailed 3D models and technical drawings using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
  • Build and test prototypes to validate designs, ensuring functionality, durability, and safety.
  • Conduct thorough performance testing, including photometric measurements, thermal analysis, and electrical testing.
  • Oversee UL, ETL, and other product safety testing and certifications.
  • Analyze test results and implement design modifications to improve product performance.
  • Product Lifecycle Management:*
  • Manage the product development process from concept to launch, adhering to project timelines and budgets.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless production and product quality.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of designs, test results, and specifications.
  • Ensure products meet all relevant regulatory requirements such as UL, CE, and DLC.
  • Qualifications:*
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Proven experience in product development, preferably in the lighting industry.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).
  • Strong understanding of electrical and mechanical engineering principles.
  • Experience with prototyping and testing methodologies.
  • Knowledge of lighting industry standards and regulations is a plus.
  • Pay Range: *$30 - $45 per hour
  • Benefits*: Health insurance, 401K, dental, and other benefits

Join Elco Lighting and illuminate the future!

Job Type: Full-time


Company Description

The Leading Choice - Both customers and competitors alike see ELCO as a leader in luminaire manufacturing.