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Entry Level R&D Engineering Jobs in Guadalupe, CA

Entry Level R D Engineering information

See Guadalupe, CA salary details

$29.3K

$67.6K

$115.1K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level r&d engineering in Guadalupe, CA is $67,639.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,200.00 and $76,600.00 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 do entry level R&D engineers do?

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?

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 cities near Guadalupe, CA are hiring for Entry Level R&D Engineering jobs? Cities near Guadalupe, CA with the most Entry Level R&D Engineering job openings:

Composites Technician

Redwire Defense Tech

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$23 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $23.00 to $35.00 per hour. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

 

SUMMARY 

Redwire Defense Tech is looking for Composites Technicians; this role combines hands-on skills with a strong knowledge of materials including their proper handling and required personal protective equipment. Due to growth in our business, we have a variety of positions available ranging from entry level Technicians to advanced; salary is based on a skills assessment.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

  • Follow shop safety requirements and other relevant policies
  • Complete production documentation to ensure accuracy and completeness
  • Fabricate, layup, trim, finish, or paint composite parts per production documentation
  • Maintain production tooling following verbal and written instructions
  • Support improvement of processes and procedures
  • Support Engineering development as needed
  • Support problem solving activities for technical issues
  • Support the development and training of other team members

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position:

  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Ability to wear a respirator for up to eight (8) hours a day
  • Standing for two (2) consistent hours at a time
  • Ability to lift 50lbs
  • Experience in a fabrication, assembly, manufacturing, or engineering environment
  • Ability to read and follow schematics, drawings, procedures, etc.
  • Ability to solve problems
  • Able to work together on a team
  • The ability to follow verbal and written procedures, good communication skills
  • Willingness to learn, ask questions, and listen to others
  • Safety and quality minded, strong attention to detail

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience with composites, resins, adhesives, coatings, measurement tools
  • Experience crafting, woodworking or assembly
  • Familiarity with engineering documentation and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
  • Experience planning, supervision, and coordination
  • Familiarity with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Computer literacy
  • Any experience with process tracking documentation

 

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS

  • Matching 401(k)
  • Paid PTO
  • Paid holidays
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • HSA and FSA Options
  • Critical Care Plan
  • Accident Care Plan
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 50 pounds as needed.

EDGE AUTONOMY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Edge Autonomy is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.