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Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in California

Fresh Consulting is a design-led, software development and hardware engineering company, offering ... Senior Mechanical Engineer Location: Onsite in Sunnyvale, CA Benefits: Employee benefits at 100 ...

Fresh Consulting is a design-led, software development and hardware engineering company, offering ... Senior Mechanical Engineer Location: Onsite in Sunnyvale, CA Benefits: Employee benefits at 100 ...

Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

We work with the dreamers and the disruptors -- from fresh startups to global industry leaders ... We'regrowingourUS Mechanical Engineering team: The role involves mechanical design, prototyping ...

Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

We work with the dreamers and the disruptors - from fresh startups to global industry leaders - and ... We're growing ourUS Mechanical Engineering team : The role involves mechanical design, prototyping ...

We work with the dreamers and the disruptors -- from fresh startups to global industry leaders ... We're growing our US Mechanical Engineering team : The role involves mechanical design ...

Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

We work with the dreamers and the disruptors - from fresh startups to global industry leaders - and ... We're growing ourUS Mechanical Engineering team : The role involves mechanical design, prototyping ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

... share fresh, delicious coffee! About this Role We're seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer who is passionate about designing products that balance exceptional customer experience with scalable ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

... share fresh, delicious coffee! About this Role We're seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer who is passionate about designing products that balance exceptional customer experience with scalable ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$101.5K

$164.3K

How much do fresh graduate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for fresh graduate mechanical engineer in California is $101,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $124,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a fresh graduate mechanical engineer do?

A Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer typically assists senior engineers in designing, testing, and evaluating mechanical systems and products. Their tasks may involve drafting technical drawings, conducting research, performing simulations, and supporting project documentation. They often work under supervision while gaining practical experience, applying engineering principles learned in school to real-world problems. This role is an entry-level position meant to help new graduates transition into the professional workforce and develop essential skills for their careers.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a fresh graduate mechanical engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As a fresh graduate mechanical engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of entry-level tasks such as assisting with design calculations, preparing engineering drawings, supporting prototyping and testing, and collaborating with senior engineers on larger projects. You may also be involved in troubleshooting equipment, compiling technical documentation, and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress. This period is often focused on learning industry standards, familiarizing yourself with company-specific tools and processes, and developing practical skills through hands-on experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fresh graduate mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), engineering simulation tools, and basic knowledge of industry standards are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you effectively contribute to projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for successfully transitioning academic knowledge into practical solutions and advancing in a professional engineering environment.

What is the difference between Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Designer?

AspectFresh Graduate Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
QualificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; entry-levelBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related; may require CAD certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, manufacturing plants, R&D labsDesign departments, engineering firms, manufacturing companies
ResponsibilitiesAssist in project development, testing, analysisCreate detailed CAD models, technical drawings, design specifications
Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, energy, automotiveProduct design, machinery, automotive, aerospace

While both roles require a background in mechanical engineering, a Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer typically assists in various engineering tasks and gains practical experience, whereas a Mechanical Designer focuses on creating detailed technical drawings and CAD models for manufacturing and product development.

What are popular job titles related to Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in California?

For Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Fresh Graduate Mechanical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,531 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Graduate Mechanical Engineer - 2026

Mott MacDonald

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$77 - $88/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design engineering solutions

  • Conduct and monitor site inspections

  • Join project and client meetings


Mott MacDonald rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 452 rated engineering


Job description

At Mott MacDonald, we trust our brilliant people to do brilliant things in engineering, management, and development services, supporting multisector project work in over 150 countries. As one of the largest employee-owned companies in the world, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver exceptional outcomes through our network of 20,000+ talented consultants. With sustainability and innovation at the heart of all our sectors in North America, including, Buildings, Energy, Transportation, and Water.

We believe in empowering our people to excel, learn, and grow, offering diverse opportunities to contribute to career-defining work. Join us and be part of a collaborative environment where your ambitions are united with ours, and you can truly shape your story.

If you share that vision, even if you don’t meet every requirement listed, we’d still love to hear from you. We value potential and diverse perspectives as much as experience. Let’s explore how we can support your growth and help you take the next step in your career, while contributing to an exciting new chapter for Mott MacDonald in North America.

At Mott MacDonald, we believe that engineering is about more than solving problems, it’s about shaping a future that’s inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. As we expand our operations across the US and Canada, we’re inviting passionate individuals to join us in a journey that’s driven by purpose and powered by brilliant people. We’re trusted consultants, partnering with clients to solve complex challenges and deliver lasting impact.

From the moment you join our team, you’ll be surrounded by experienced engineering consultants, project managers, and subject matter experts who are committed to excellence and innovation. You’ll work side-by-side with mentors and peers who champion integrity and teamwork, because we know collaboration drives better outcomes - and you won’t just apply your engineering skills, you’ll also embrace the mindset of a consultant.

Together, we’ll tackle complex challenges, deliver sustainable solutions, and create positive change for our clients and the communities they serve. You’ll be trusted to contribute, encouraged to grow, and supported every step of the way.

As a participant in our brand-new graduate program, Blueprint, launching in October 2026, you’ll embark on a structured three-year development journey designed in partnership with an award-winning learning provider. The program blends immersive learning experiences with mandatory development sessions to build the professional, commercial, and personal effectiveness skills graduates need to thrive and grow into future leaders within our business

Your responsibilities may include:

  • Designing engineering solutions
  • Conducting and monitoring site inspections
  • Joining project and client meetings
  • Refining technical designs and documentation
  • Analyzing reports and specifications
  • Exploring project and client management
  • Leveraging digital tools and innovation
  • Driving sustainable outcomes
  • Building connections through our Early Career Professionals Network

To be considered for this 2026 opportunity, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Mechanical or Fire Protection Engineering (preferred)
  • Successful completion of EIT exam, or ability to take EIT exam within 12 months
  • Demonstrated interest in your chosen field through previous internships, volunteering opportunities, or organization memberships (SFPE, NFPA)
  • Creative thinking skills, with a methodical and pragmatic approach to problem solving
  • Proficient communication and presentation skills to engage confidently with clients and colleagues
  • Resilient, solution-oriented mindset, with a focus on continuous growth and delivering value
  • Ability to build and maintain relationships and rapport with internal and external stakeholders
  • Collaborative spirit and commitment to teamwork

This position is located in either Los Angeles, CA or San Diego, CA. You must be able to reliably commute to our office in one of these locations, per our hybrid working policy.

We’re more than engineers - we’re changemakers. At Mott MacDonald, you’ll find:

  • Best in class learning and development initiatives
  • Dedicated mentorship program
  • Network of Employee Resource Groups
  • Opportunities for excellence everyday

We welcome individuals who are driven by curiosity, compassion, and a desire to make a difference. If you’re excited by the idea of working in an engineering consultant that values your growth and empowers you to lead with integrity, we’d love to hear from you.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US, as Mott MacDonald is unable to provide sponsorship at this time. (US Only)

Benefits & Reward

At Mott MacDonald, our employees have a stake and a voice in our business, providing them with a direct connection to our success through our personal and group performance bonuses. We provide a comprehensive benefit package that includes 401k, medical, dental and vision insurance, short-term/long-term disability, paid holidays, PTO, parental leave, and company paid life insurance.

Individual pay is determined based on several factors such as work location, education, experience, and unique skills.

The expected salary for this position is $77K - $88K.

Collaboration at Our Core
At Mott MacDonald, we believe great ideas happen when we’re together. Our hybrid approach centers on an in-office culture, with most of your time spent collaborating face-to-face and a minimum of three days per week in the office. We balance flexibility with connection, so you and your manager can choose how to meet client, team, and personal commitments. Equal opportunity is the law.

We seek to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all. We encourage individual expression in our workplace and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they have the opportunity to contribute.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status or disability status.

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