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Entry Level Project Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CRI

Associate Project Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$31 - $38/hr

The Associate Project Manager is an entry-level project manager and will have the opportunity to learn and build project management skills and capabilities within the CRI Team. This role is eligible ...

Viavi Solutions

Project Manager

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

Overview We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented entry-level Project Manager to support project execution within our manufacturing environment. This role works closely with engineering ...

Viavi Solutions

Project Manager

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

Overview We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented entry-level Project Manager to support project execution within our manufacturing environment. This role works closely with engineering ...

Rosendin

Assistant Project Manager

Anaheim, CA · On-site

The Assistant Project Manager is an entry-level project management position and is expected to learn and develop competency in the Essential Duties and Responsibilities. In addition, the APM is ...

REXEL

Lighting Senior Project Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

May provided training and guidance to entry level Project Managers * Perform other duties as assigned Job Duties Disclaimer: The information contained in this is intended to describe the essential ...

Rexel France

Lighting Senior Project Manager

Livermore, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

May provided training and guidance to entry level Project Managers * Perform other duties as assigned Job Duties Disclaimer: The information contained in this is intended to describe the essential ...

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Entry Level Project Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$101.3K

$159.9K

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level project manager in California is $101,337.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $121,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level project manager?

As an entry-level project manager, you work to improve communication between departments in an organization. You are assigned a team to manage as you guide them through a project and help them collaborate with other groups. Your responsibilities center around completing the project goal, creating a plan for the project, and designing a timeline for project completion. You also work with upper management, explaining your project strategy and how it falls in line with their goals and budget. Other duties include creating visual representations of the project processes, monitoring employee progress, and altering the process when necessary.

What does an entry level project manager do?

An Entry Level Project Manager assists in planning, executing, and completing projects under the supervision of senior managers. They help coordinate teams, monitor project timelines, communicate with stakeholders, and ensure that tasks are completed on schedule and within budget. Their role often includes administrative duties, tracking project progress, and identifying potential issues early on. This position is a great starting point for building project management skills and learning how to lead larger projects in the future.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Project Manager, you need a solid grasp of project management principles, organizational skills, and typically a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with project management software such as Microsoft Project, Asana, or Trello, and foundational certifications like CAPM or Agile fundamentals are often beneficial. Strong communication, problem-solving, and time management skills help you effectively coordinate teams and adapt to changing project needs. These competencies are essential for delivering projects on time, within scope, and fostering positive team collaboration.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level project managers, and how can they effectively address them?

Entry level project managers often encounter challenges such as managing competing priorities, communicating with diverse stakeholders, and adapting to rapidly changing project requirements. To succeed, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, proactively seek feedback from team members, and utilize project management tools to track tasks and deadlines. Building relationships with mentors and experienced colleagues can also provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate new responsibilities. Embracing a continuous learning mindset will help you grow and adapt quickly in this dynamic role.

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

AspectEntry Level Project ManagerProject Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree, PMP certification (preferred)Bachelor's degree often required; certifications like CAPM beneficial)
Work EnvironmentOversees projects, manages teams, responsible for project successSupports project teams, handles scheduling and communication
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for managing projects at entry levelCommonly used in same industries, often as support role

The main difference is that an Entry Level Project Manager has more responsibility for project outcomes and team management, while a Project Coordinator primarily supports project activities and communication. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the Project Manager holds more accountability for project success.

How to become an entry level project manager with zero experience?

To become an entry-level project manager with no experience, focus on developing strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Obtain relevant certifications such as Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) or learn project management tools like Microsoft Project or Trello. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or assisting with projects can also help build your resume for entry-level roles.
More about Entry Level Project Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Manager jobs in California?

The most popular types of Project Manager jobs in California are:

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For Entry Level Project Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Project Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Project Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Project Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Project Manager job openings:

Entry Level Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Project Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,337 per year, or $48.7 per hour.

Entry Level Project Manager

Innovatus Technology Consulting

San Diego, CA • On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Entry-Level Project Manager
Innovatus Technology Consulting
Location: San Diego, CA (on-site or hybrid as mission requirements dictate)
Clearance: Active U.S. Secret clearance (or higher) required
About Innovatus Technology Consulting
Innovatus Technology Consulting is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in San Diego, California. Since 2012, we have delivered secure cloud engineering, cybersecurity, enterprise IT, Microsoft enterprise services, network support, and program management solutions primarily to Department of Defense and national security customers. We emphasize integrity, technical excellence, and mission impact.
Position Overview
We are seeking an Entry-Level Project Manager to support and help lead smaller projects or defined work packages on DoD and federal IT contracts. This role is ideal for professionals ready to take ownership of project coordination, scheduling, risk tracking, and stakeholder communication while working under the guidance of senior Project or Program Managers. You will help ensure deliverables, timelines, documentation, and compliance requirements are met in both classified and unclassified environments.Key Responsibilities
  • Plan, coordinate, and track project activities, schedules, milestones, and deliverables for assigned work packages or smaller projects.
  • Develop and maintain project documentation, including project plans, schedules, risk registers, action-item logs, status reports, and meeting minutes.
  • Facilitate project meetings, prepare agendas, capture decisions and action items, and follow up to ensure timely completion.
  • Monitor progress against baselines, identify potential issues or risks early, and escalate as needed while proposing practical mitigation steps.
  • Support resource coordination, basic budget/expense tracking, and timesheet oversight under the direction of a senior PM.
  • Ensure adherence to contract requirements, quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001), security processes (including RMF considerations), and company procedures.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for routine communications among internal teams, subcontractors, and government stakeholders.
  • Maintain project repositories in SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, or similar tools and support configuration management of key artifacts.
  • Assist with data calls, status reporting packages, and light proposal support as required.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of project management processes within a fast-paced defense IT environment.
Required Qualifications
  • Active U.S. Secret security clearance (minimum); higher clearances preferred.
  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
  • 0-3 years of professional experience in project coordination, junior project management, or related roles (government contracting, defense, or IT experience strongly preferred). Recent graduates with relevant internships or academic project leadership experience are encouraged to apply.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and time-management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Project preferred) and collaboration platforms (Teams, SharePoint).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact professionally with technical teams, managers, and government customers.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team while taking ownership of assigned responsibilities.
  • Ability to handle sensitive and classified information appropriately.
  • U.S. citizenship required (due to clearance and contract requirements).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting DoD, NIWC Pacific, NAVWAR, or similar federal IT, cloud, or cybersecurity programs.
  • Familiarity with project management methodologies (Waterfall, Agile/Scrum basics, or hybrid) and tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, or equivalent.
  • Prior experience in a cleared environment or with government contracting processes (e.g., CDRLs, status reporting, risk management).
  • CAPM, Google Project Management Certificate, or other entry-level project management credential (or willingness to obtain).
  • Veteran status or experience working with military/defense customers is a plus.
What We Offer
  • Opportunity to build project management skills while supporting meaningful national security and defense missions.
  • Mentorship from experienced Program and Project Managers.
  • Competitive compensation commensurate with experience and clearance level.
  • Benefits package typical for a growing SDVOSB (details provided during the hiring process).
  • Collaborative culture that values ethics, expertise, professional growth, and military-aligned talent.
  • Clear pathway for advancement into more senior project or program management roles

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