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Entry Level R&D Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Silvus Technologies

FPGA Design Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$132K - $181K/yr

... R&D. These are exciting projects aimed at addressing challenging real-world communication needs. This position is 100% onsite, Monday through Friday, at Silvus Technologies' Engineering and R&D ...

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Entry Level R D Engineering information

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$29.6K

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$116.5K

How much do entry level r&d engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level r&d engineering in California is $68,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level R&D Engineering vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectEntry Level R&D EngineeringMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related fieldBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or similar
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development teamsDesign offices, manufacturing settings
Industry UsageResearch and development departments across industriesProduct design and manufacturing companies
Common Search IntentEntry level R&D roles, research-focused positionsDesign-focused engineering roles

Entry Level R&D Engineering and Mechanical Design Engineer roles often require similar educational backgrounds, but differ in focus. Entry Level R&D Engineers typically work on developing new products or technologies in research labs, while Mechanical Design Engineers focus on creating detailed product designs for manufacturing. Both roles are common in engineering industries, but their daily tasks and environments vary.

What is an Entry Level R&D Engineer?

An Entry Level R&D (Research and Development) Engineer is a recent graduate or early-career professional who works on designing, developing, and testing new products, technologies, or processes. They collaborate with senior engineers and scientists to conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to innovative solutions. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with prototype development, documentation, and running tests to ensure product quality and functionality. This role helps bridge theoretical engineering knowledge with practical application in a real-world setting.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry-level R&D engineer?

As an entry-level R&D engineer, you'll typically work on a variety of tasks that support the development and improvement of new products or technologies. Your responsibilities may include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, building prototypes, and assisting senior engineers with troubleshooting and documentation. You’ll often collaborate closely with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, and quality assurance to ensure project goals are met. Entry-level roles provide valuable exposure to the full product development cycle and offer plenty of opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level R&D Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, lab equipment, data acquisition systems, and sometimes certifications in project management or Six Sigma are valuable. Strong communication, creativity, and teamwork skills help you collaborate effectively and contribute innovative solutions. These abilities are crucial for driving product development, ensuring technical accuracy, and supporting continuous improvement in research environments.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level R&D Engineering jobs in California? For Entry Level R&D Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level R&D Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level R&D Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level R&D Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level R&D Engineering job openings:
Entry Level R D Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level R&D Engineering job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,454 per year, or $32.9 per hour.
Principal Engineer - Switch Systems Test Engineer

Principal Engineer - Switch Systems Test Engineer

II-VI Aerospace & Defense

Fremont, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Assist in the standardization and implementation of Switch-based DVT (XDVT) test coverage for all new 800G, 1.6T and future 3.2T optical transceiver products. This includes continuously defining the new test coverage and streamlining the XDVT submission, verification and data reporting process.
  • Coordinate on the global XDVT activities, and assist/advise on the XDVT failure analysis working closely with different design teams from all R/D sites.
  • Assist module design team/QA team for urgent optical transceiver evaluation, optimization and debugging on switches
  • Able to directly interface with Switch-vendor and DSP vendor for co-debugging on the very challenging link flap issues as part of joint efforts by cross-functional teams.
  • Co-develop the special module tuning/optimization algorithm on Switch-based setup for LPO and LRO products by collaborating with design teams, customers and/or switch vendors.
  • Establish the Switch-based knowledge base in three areas:
  1. Switch study/characterization as part of design guidance
  2. Switch-based product evaluation/optimization methodologies and lessons learned
  3. Issues found on customer switch systems: Lesson learned, corrective actions and suggested design improvement.
  • Work closely with Switch test engineer to bring up the new types of switches and have regular interaction with various switch vendors for co-debugging and feature request.
  • Need light travel to other sites to facilitate the implementation of the Switch-based test platform and standardize the XDVT execution.

Education & Experience
B.S. EE degree with 9-year experience or M.S. EE degree with 7-year experience required
Skills & Other Requirements
  • Strong programming skills with Python is preferred.
  • Familiar with optical transceiver product characterization, validation and failure analysis in Switch-based system
  • Familiar with or capable of quick learning on Switch OS, such as Sonic by MSFT, Cumulus by Nvidia and VEOS by Arista.
  • Experience in link performance optimization on Switch rack system in data center is a Plus.
  • Basic knowledge in IEEE standard in terms of test specs and test methodologies
  • Solid knowledge in PCBA, RF and Fiber optics is highly preferred
  • Strong laboratory optical and electrical measurement skills required
  • Hands-on experience in optical test instruments, such as DCA, OSA, BERT, etc., is a Must
  • Strong data analysis skills with SQL, JMP, MS Excel.
  • Strong skills in communication, presentation and documentation.

Working Conditions
  • This position is On-Site
  • May require occasional off-site meetings with customers/Switch/DSP vendors.
  • May require light travel to other R/D sites in Asia area.
  • Extensive use of the computer and other test equipment
  • Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job
  • May require occasional overtime and flexibility in work hours to accommodate some urgent tasks

Physical Requirements
  • Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or conducting meetings.
  • Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
  • Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds for administrative tasks.
  • Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Mobility within the office environment to attend meetings or interact with colleagues.

Safety Requirements
All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and Corporate EHS standards. This includes the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) as required by the job responsibilities.
Managers will ensure that all safety and environmental procedures are followed consistently. They will ensure that risk assessments are performed, proper training, work instructions, required PPE is available, and will monitor compliance.
Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.
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About Us
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.

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