2

Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Riverside, CA

In this role, you'll gain hands-on R&D experience supporting product development, testing, and ... Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Biomedical Engineering. * 0+ years ...

In this role, you'll gain hands-on R&D experience supporting product development, testing, and ... Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Biomedical Engineering. * 0+ years ...

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... scientists to refine prototype designs, and document and report testing results and prototype ... Prepare pneumatic and cryogenic system concepts, engineering drawings, BOMs and P&IDs. * Specify ...

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Participate in engineering research and testing activities to assess feasibility and performance of ... A&C Future, Inc. at 16450 Scientific Way, Ste 200, Irvine, CA 92618. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$38.6K

$110.6K

$148.7K

How much do entry level research scientist mechanical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level research scientist mechanical engineering in Riverside, CA is $110,599.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,500.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level research scientist mechanical engineering do?

An Entry Level Research Scientist in Mechanical Engineering typically assists with designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments related to mechanical systems, materials, or processes. They may work on developing prototypes, testing new materials, or improving existing technologies under the supervision of senior scientists or engineers. Their responsibilities often include data collection, report writing, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. This role is ideal for recent graduates who are looking to apply their engineering knowledge to innovative research projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level research scientist mechanical engineering?

To excel as an Entry Level Research Scientist in Mechanical Engineering, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, data analysis, and experimental design, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, as well as laboratory instrumentation and CAD software, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you stand out in this role. These competencies ensure accurate research outcomes, efficient project collaboration, and meaningful contributions to innovative engineering solutions.

What are some common challenges an entry level research scientist mechanical engineering might face during their first year?

As an Entry Level Research Scientist in Mechanical Engineering, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to new laboratory protocols, mastering specialized research equipment, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Collaborating with senior researchers and cross-disciplinary teams requires effective communication and a willingness to learn from feedback. Additionally, balancing hands-on experimentation with data analysis and documentation is crucial for success and professional growth in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,599 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Early Career Mechanical Engineer - Buildings

WSP

Irvine, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Full-Time Early Career Mechanical Engineer for our Irvine, CA office.  Be involved in projects with our Property and Buildings Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges. 

Takes part in providing local technical assistance for the design, development, building, testing, and inspecting of mechanical systems on infrastructure, building, and construction projects in the public and private sector.  Tasks may include basic assistance with the research, design, concept development, installation, operation, maintenance, and optimal integration of automatic temperature control, air distribution, hydronic, and plumbing systems, equipment and processes.  Generates accurate and concise documentation regarding assigned aspects of the project.  Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards for design, safety, and functionality.

Your Impact

  • Under general supervision, assist with collecting, compiling, and analyzing data from the physical work site, surveys, blueprints, schematics, data, technical drawings, computer-generated reports, and other matrices for project development, design, and construction.    
  • Assist with performing basic professional mechanical engineering work relating to conducting research and inspections of proposed and existing site conditions, equipment, resources, building, infrastructure, usage, and mechanical systems to determine conformance with applicable rules, standards, and construction or operating permits.
  • Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on various design requirements, load calculations, and operating strategies to account for the proper installation and functioning of equipment and systems according to specifications. 
  • Assist with verifying the characteristics of a site and providing basic technical assistance on various engineering, design, and construction issues. 
  • Generate complete, accurate, and concise documentation and specifications using electronic systems, drawings, and field/work site notebook/logs.
  • Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, location data, statistical documentation, engineering studies and surveys, and construction.
  • Complete training on assigned tasks.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, or closely related discipline.
  • 0 to 1 years of relevant post education experience.
  • Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.
  • Familiarity with process and concepts for design/build.  
  • Familiarity with relevant mechanical system and construction laws, codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, spreadsheets, technology, and tools.
  • Familiarity with discipline-specific design software (i.e., AutoCAD, CAM).
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Engineer in Training Certification.
  • Prior internship related to the degree of study and the specific engineering discipline.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

WSP Benefits:  

WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on a providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.  

Compensation: 

Expected Salary: $72,700- $100,00

WSP USA is providing the compensation range that the company in good faith believes it might pay and offer for this position, based on the successful applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities in addition to internal equity and specific geographic location. WSP USA reserves the right to ultimately pay more or less than the posted range and offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant's sex or other status protected by local, state, and/or federal law. 

About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 


What WSP employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom