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Entry Level Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Thermal Structures

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Project Engineer - Composites

Corona, CA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

This entry-level role develops foundational knowledge of composite materials, fabrication processes, and program execution while supporting quality, schedule, and cost objectives. Project Engineer ...

Leed Electric Inc

Project Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$71K - $75K/yr

SUMMARY The Project Engineer is an entry-level position and is expected to learn and develop competency in essential duties and responsibilities. In addition, the Project Engineer is responsible for ...

Leed Electric Inc

Project Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

SUMMARY The Project Engineer is an entry-level position and is expected to learn and develop competency in essential duties and responsibilities. In addition, the Project Engineer is responsible for ...

Blach Construction

Project Engineer (Monterey)

Monterey, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Entry-Level Position Available Title: Project Engineer Reports to: Project Manager Summary of Position: As a key team member, the Project Engineer is responsible for working with their Project Team(s ...

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All JobsProject Engineer JobsEntry Level Project Engineer JobsEntry Level Project Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Project Engineer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$81K

$148.5K

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

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level project engineer in California is $80,990.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $87,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Project Engineer vs Project Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Project EngineerProject Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's degree; often in business or management
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, engineering offices, industrial settingsOffice settings, project management teams
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, manufacturingConstruction, IT, corporate projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Project Engineer typically focuses on technical aspects of projects, including design, planning, and engineering tasks, often working directly with engineers and technical teams. In contrast, a Project Coordinator handles administrative tasks, schedules, and communication between teams. Both roles are essential in project execution but differ in technical involvement and responsibilities.

What does an Entry Level Project Engineer do?

An Entry Level Project Engineer assists in planning, coordinating, and overseeing engineering projects under the supervision of senior engineers or project managers. Typical responsibilities include preparing technical documents, assisting with project scheduling, monitoring progress, and communicating with team members and stakeholders to ensure project goals are met. They may also help troubleshoot issues, ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and support quality assurance efforts. This role provides valuable hands-on experience for recent graduates or those new to the engineering field, often serving as a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Project Engineer, a solid background in engineering principles, a relevant degree, and basic project management knowledge are essential. Familiarity with tools such as AutoCAD, Microsoft Project, and industry-specific software, along with any relevant certifications like EIT (Engineer-in-Training), is often required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies enable effective project coordination, technical accuracy, and successful collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Project Engineers during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry Level Project Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced project timelines, learning to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but proactively seeking guidance from senior engineers, staying organized with project management tools, and regularly checking in with your supervisor can help you succeed. Embracing a willingness to learn and asking questions will also build your technical confidence and foster strong working relationships.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Project Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Project Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in CA? For Entry Level Project Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Entry Level Project Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Project Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,990 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Project Engineer (0-2 years experience)

Project Engineer (0-2 years experience)

Clark Pacific

West Sacramento, CA • On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

Clark Pacific rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

At Clark Pacific, the Project Engineer supports the successful design, fabrication, and installation of architectural and structural building systems. Working as part of an integrated team within a specific business unit, this entry-level role applies engineering fundamentals, problem-solving, and communication skills across all levels of the organization.
This role is ideal for recent graduates or early-career engineers (0-2 years) looking to gain exposure across design, manufacturing, and field operations within a design-build environment. This role is an 100% on-site position in West Sacramento or Woodland, CA.
Competitive Compensation Range:
$85,000 - $110,000 annually, depending on experience + bonus
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals to perform the essential functions.
  • Support activities pertaining to the Design Phase, including submittal drawings, design coordination, and assisting with reinforcement and miscellaneous metal drawings
  • Assist with manufacturing-related activities, including reviewing shop drawings, supporting production processes, and coordinating material needs
  • Participate in field-related activities such as assisting with crane studies, erection planning, and coordination with field teams
  • Support project documentation, scheduling, and quality control processes
  • Collaborate with internal teams including engineering, manufacturing, and field operations
  • Assist with issue identification, problem-solving, and coordination across disciplines

Education & Qualifications
  • BS in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related Engineering field required
  • 0-2 years of relevant experience (internship experience preferred)
  • EIT certification preferred or in progress
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
  • Willingness to work onsite and travel to jobsites as needed (expected 25-30%)

Additional Information
  • Precast experience is not required - training will be provided
  • Opportunity to gain hands-on experience across the full project lifecycle
  • Clear path for growth into Assistant Project Manager and beyond

Core Values
  • Determination: Meet challenges head on
  • Innovation: Always look for better
  • Well-Being: Seek the success, health, and happiness of all

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation, paid weekly
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance, including Kaiser and VSP options
  • Medical FSA
  • Dependent Care FSA
  • Employer-paid life insurance
  • Voluntary ancillary benefits including Critical Illness, Accident Insurance, and Whole Life Insurance
  • 401k matching: 100 percent of the first 3 percent, then 50 percent of the next 2 percent

Benefits are subject to a waiting period.
Must be eligible to work in the US we DO NOT provide any sort of Sponsorship.
Interested? Want to learn more? If you are a hard-working, collaborative professional who is curious, driven, and ready to lead impactful projects, we want to hear from you. Apply today and begin the journey with Clark Pacific. Let's do great things together.
Clark Pacific is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Opportunity Employer / Protected Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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