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Gear Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gear Machinist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$45 - $80/hr

Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA. We are looking for a skilled Gear Machinist to join our machine ...

Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA. We are looking for a skilled Gear Machinist to join our machine ...

Set up and operate gear-cutting equipment such as hobbing, shaping, grinding, and CNC machines ... Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and technical specifications. * Manufacture ...

What you bring to the table: * 4-5 years of experience quoting electrical gear, switchgear, or ... Four-year degree in Business, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.

Inside Sales Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$64K - $80K/yr

At Martin Sprocket & Gear, we're dedicated to producing quality mechanical power transmission ... Engineer like you! What You'll Do: * Complete hands-on training: Participate in an extensive ...

Inside Sales Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$64K - $80K/yr

At Martin Sprocket & Gear, we're dedicated to producing quality mechanical power transmission ... Engineer like you! What You'll Do: * Complete hands-on training: Participate in an extensive ...

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Gear Engineering information

Do engineers work with gears?

Gear engineers design, analyze, and test gear systems used in machinery and mechanical devices. They often work with CAD software and mechanical principles to ensure proper gear function and durability in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

What is the difference between Gear Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectGear EngineeringMechanical Engineering
FocusDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of gears and gear systemsBroad engineering field covering machinery, thermodynamics, materials, and design
CredentialsTypically requires mechanical engineering degree, specialized gear design certificationsRequires a mechanical engineering degree; certifications vary by specialization
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, gear design labs, R&D centersFactories, labs, offices, research institutions
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, industrial machineryAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy, many sectors

Gear Engineering is a specialized subset of Mechanical Engineering focused on gears and gear systems. While Mechanical Engineers have a broad scope, Gear Engineers concentrate on gear design, analysis, and manufacturing processes. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in related environments, but Gear Engineering offers a niche expertise within the larger mechanical field.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. Leadership roles like engineering managers or principal engineers in high-demand industries can also reach or exceed this salary level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Gear Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Gear Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, gear design principles, and materials science, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), gear analysis tools, and knowledge of relevant industry standards (like AGMA) are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set outstanding gear engineers apart. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable, efficient gears that meet performance requirements and ensure product quality in manufacturing and mechanical systems.

What are some common challenges faced by gear engineers when working on complex gear systems, and how are these typically addressed?

Gear engineers often encounter challenges related to noise, vibration, and durability when designing complex gear systems, especially for high-performance applications like automotive or industrial machinery. These issues are typically addressed through precise material selection, advanced simulation software, and close collaboration with manufacturing teams to optimize tolerances and finishes. Additionally, gear engineers may work with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical designers, quality engineers, and test technicians—to validate prototypes and troubleshoot issues as they arise, ensuring the final product meets strict performance and reliability standards.

What is gear engineering?

Gear engineering is a specialized field of mechanical engineering focused on the design, analysis, manufacturing, and application of gears and gear systems. Gear engineers work to ensure that gears transmit power efficiently and reliably in machinery ranging from automobiles to industrial equipment. Their responsibilities include selecting appropriate gear materials, optimizing gear tooth geometry, and analyzing load capacity, noise, and durability. Gear engineering plays a crucial role in improving machine performance and longevity.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced degrees, or obtaining professional certifications like PE or PMP.
Infographic showing various Gear Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.
Gear Machinist

Gear Machinist

Figure

San Jose, CA • On-site

$45 - $80/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA.
We are looking for a skilled Gear Machinist to join our machine shop. In this role, you will work closely with engineering and production teams to design, produce, and inspect precision gears and gear systems that are critical to our development.
Responsibilities:
  • Assess tools and material needed for projects
  • Set up and operate gear hobbing machines to produce various types of gears to tight tolerances
  • Perform gear skiving operations for internal gears, splines, and hard-to-reach profiles
  • Set up and operate CNC lathes with live tooling as needed
  • Set up and operate manual mills and lathes as needed
  • Perform gear inspection using various inspection methods
  • Provide feedback and solutions to improve designs and manufacturing efficiency
  • Provide training to team members
  • Maintain inventory of cutting tools, raw materials, and gear blanks
  • Maintain a safe, organized, and collaborative shop environment
  • Document and track workflow, inspection results, and non-conformances
  • Perform preventative maintenance and repair on machines and equipment

Requirements:
  • 10+ years of experience in a related industry
  • Proficient in gear hobbing processes, tooling selection, and setup
  • Hands-on experience with gear skiving for internal profiles and splines
  • Strong knowledge of gear geometry, tolerances, and quality standards
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and gear specifications
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced and collaborative environment
  • Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills
  • Safety conscious, dependable, and a positive attitude

Bonus Qualifications:
  • Experience with gear grinding operations
  • Fabrication and/or welding experience
  • Familiarity with metrology tools such as CMMs

The US base pay range for this full-time position is between $45/hr-$80/hr
The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended.