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

D.R. Horton, Inc

Mortgage Loan Originator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$35K/yr

D.R. Horton, Inc., the largest homebuilder in the U.S., was founded in 1978 and is a publicly ... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ...

Shifamed

Quality Engineer

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Operations and R&D. * Support Operations ... S. or higher in Biomedical, Electrical, Mechanical or Systems Engineering or equivalent relevant ...

Pixar

Research Scientist

Emeryville, CA

$162K - $210K/yr

Work directly with artists, technical directors, and engineers to address real-world production ... Experience: 2+ years of post-graduate research experience in academia or industry R&D. * Track ...

Pixar Animation Studios

Research Scientist

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$162K - $210K/yr

Work directly with artists, technical directors, and engineers to address real-world production ... Experience: 2+ years of post-graduate research experience in academia or industry R&D. * Track ...

Orbotech

Applications Development Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$97K - $166K/yr

KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world ...

Crane Company

Systems Engineer II

Burbank, CA · On-site

... and R&D. * Plan, estimate, prioritize, and manage work activities to support meeting project ... Contribute to all Systems Engineering aspects (architecture and components) from initial product ...

Crane Company

Systems Engineer II

Burbank, CA · On-site

... and R&D. * Plan, estimate, prioritize, and manage work activities to support meeting project ... Contribute to all Systems Engineering aspects (architecture and components) from initial product ...

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Entry Level R D Engineering information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$68.5K

$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.

Research & Development (R&D) Intern

SIGMA-US

City Of Industry, CA • On-site

$25.98/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Location: City of Industry, CA Los Altos Foods (Sigma)
Pay: $25.98/hour
Schedule: Part-Time, 24 hours per week (approximately 3 days per week)
Launch Your Career in Food Innovation
Join Los Altos Foods, a Sigma company, and gain hands-on experience in dairy product development, research, and manufacturing. As an R&D Intern, you'll work alongside experienced professionals supporting the creation and improvement of cheese and cream products while collaborating with Production, Quality, and global R&D teams.
This is a unique opportunity to apply your academic knowledge in a real-world manufacturing environment, participate in product trials, and gain valuable industry experience with a global food company.
What You'll Do
  • Assist with dairy product development and prototype testing.
  • Participate in pilot plant and production trials.
  • Support shelf-life studies and product evaluations.
  • Collect and analyze data from testing and trials.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Production, Quality, and R&D.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation.
What We're Looking For
  • Currently pursuing a degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Junior, Senior, or graduate-level student preferred.
  • Strong interest in food innovation, product development, and dairy processing.
  • Detail-oriented with strong analytical and communication skills.
  • Ability to work in both office and manufacturing environments.
  • Spanish language skills are a plus.
Why Join Us?
  • Gain real-world experience in food manufacturing and product development.
  • Work directly with industry experts and global R&D teams.
  • Build valuable technical and professional skills.
  • Make meaningful contributions to projects that impact products enjoyed by consumers nationwide.

Start your journey with Sigma and help shape the future of dairy innovation!

Apply