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Entry Level Product Development Jobs in California

Waters Corporation

Development Engineer I

Goleta, CA · On-site

This is an entry-level position ideally suited for recent graduates who enjoy hands-on laboratory ... products meet performance, reliability, and quality requirements before release. * Execute ...

Ducommun

Manufacturer (Entry Level)

Huntington Beach, CA

$18 - $23/hr

Manufacturer Entry level production basis performs light electronic and/or electromechanical ... Our Facility in Huntington Beach, CA is a global leader in the design, development and production ...

Ducommun

Manufacturer (Entry Level)

Huntington Beach, CA

$18 - $23/hr

Manufacturer Entry level production basis performs light electronic and/or electromechanical ... Our Facility in Huntington Beach, CA is a global leader in the design, development and production ...

Kitsch LLC

Office Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

On-siteThe Role We're looking for a highly organized and enthusiastic Office Manager to join our Product Development team in Los Angeles. This is an entry-level role where you'll keep our office ...

Kitsch LLC

Office Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

On-site The Role We're looking for a highly organized and enthusiastic Office Manager to join our Product Development team in Los Angeles. This is an entry-level role where you'll keep our office ...

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

Entry Level Product Development information

See California salary details

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How much do entry level product development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level product development in California is $24.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level product development job?

An entry level product development job involves assisting in the design, creation, and improvement of new products or features under the supervision of more experienced team members. Responsibilities often include conducting market research, creating prototypes, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and gathering user feedback. This role is ideal for recent graduates or individuals new to the field who are looking to gain experience in bringing ideas to market. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn are important for success in entry level product development positions.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level product development professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in product development often face challenges such as balancing multiple project priorities, quickly adapting to changing product requirements, and effectively communicating ideas within cross-functional teams. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized by using project management tools, proactively seek feedback from more experienced colleagues, and actively participate in team meetings to improve communication skills. Embracing a growth mindset and being open to learning from setbacks will also help new product developers build confidence and advance in their roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level product development professional, and why are they important?

To excel in Entry Level Product Development, you need a background in product design, basic market research, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree such as business, engineering, or design. Familiarity with tools like Adobe Creative Suite, CAD software, and project management platforms (e.g., Jira or Trello) is commonly expected. Creativity, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills that help drive innovation and effective collaboration. These competencies ensure the successful creation, refinement, and launch of products that meet market needs and organizational goals.

What is the difference between Entry Level Product Development vs Entry Level Product Design?

AspectEntry Level Product DevelopmentEntry Level Product Design
Primary FocusCreating, testing, and refining products from concept to productionDesigning the visual and functional aspects of products
Required SkillsEngineering, prototyping, project managementSketching, CAD, user experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, R&D labs, cross-functional teamsDesign studios, collaborative teams, software tools
Common CertificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certificationsDesign software certifications, portfolio

Entry Level Product Development and Entry Level Product Design share overlapping skills like creativity and teamwork but differ mainly in focus. Product development emphasizes engineering and manufacturing processes, while product design centers on aesthetics and user experience. Both roles are essential in bringing a product from concept to market, often working closely together in the product lifecycle.

What degree do you need to work in entry level product development?

Entry level product development roles typically require a bachelor's degree in fields such as engineering, design, business, or related areas. Relevant skills include knowledge of product lifecycle, prototyping tools, and teamwork, with some positions valuing internships or certifications in project management or CAD software.

What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Product Development jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Product Development jobs in California?

For Entry Level Product Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Product Development jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Product Development jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Product Development jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Product Development job openings:

Entry Level Product Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Product Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,175 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Development Engineer I

Waters Corporation

Goleta, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Join a dynamic R&D team focused on developing the next generation of analytical instruments for the characterization of macromolecules, nanoparticles, and complex biological systems. As a Development Engineer I – Evaluation, you will support the testing, verification, and validation of new instrument platforms and technologies, with a primary focus on light scattering and chromatography-based analytical systems.

This is an entry-level position ideally suited for recent graduates who enjoy hands-on laboratory work, scientific experimentation, data analysis, and problem solving. Working closely with engineers, scientists, and cross-functional teams, you will help ensure new products meet performance, reliability, and quality requirements before release.


  • Execute verification and validation testing for new instrument platforms, subsystems, and software features.
  • Perform laboratory experiments to characterize system performance, reliability, robustness, and usability.
  • Set up, operate, and troubleshoot scientific instrumentation, including HPLC/LC systems and light scattering instruments.
  • Collect, analyze, and document experimental data using statistical and graphical analysis methods.
  • Prepare clear and concise test reports summarizing results, observations, deviations, and recommendations.
  • Assist in developing test protocols, validation procedures, and acceptance criteria.
  • Support prototype assembly, integration, and evaluation activities.
  • Investigate and reproduce reported issues to assist engineering teams in root cause analysis and corrective actions.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment, test fixtures, and test records in accordance with quality procedures.
  • Collaborate with engineering, applications, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure successful product development and transfer.

Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or another scientific discipline with 1-2 years of experience
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to accurately document experimental procedures and results.
  • Familiarity with scientific data analysis using Excel or similar tools.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
Preferred
  • Experience working with scientific instruments in a laboratory environment.
  • Familiarity with liquid chromatography (LC/HPLC) systems and workflows.
  • Exposure to light scattering instrumentation or related analytical techniques.
  • Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting experimental data.
  • Experience with software tools such as Excel, Origin, MATLAB, Python, JMP, or similar analytical platforms.
  • Understanding of laboratory best practices, calibration, and measurement fundamentals.

Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT)  is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, our innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across chemistry, physics, and biology. We collaborate with customers around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, ensure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combating antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, our passionate team of ~16,000 colleagues turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide.  

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our core values at Waters Corporation. It benefits our employees, our products, our customers and our community. Waters complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, marital status (including civil unions), military service, veteran status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, legally recognized disability, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Waters is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.


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