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Graduate Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Geotechnical Engineering Intern

Irvine, CA · On-site

Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate Engineering program * Attention to detail * Possess strong problem-solving and communication skills * Basic Microsoft Office skills * An attitude ...

HDR

Geotechnical Engineering Intern

Irvine, CA

Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate Engineering program * Attention to detail * Possess strong problem-solving and communication skills * Basic Microsoft Office skills * An attitude ...

SpaceX

New Graduate Engineer, Software

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

NEW GRADUATE ENGINEER, SOFTWARE Our SpaceX team is working on the toughest and most audacious ... Work with counterpart engineering teams to develop and maintain launch and vehicle software. * Get ...

SpaceX

New Graduate Engineer, Software

Hawthorne, CA

$125K - $145K/yr

NEW GRADUATE ENGINEER, SOFTWARE Our SpaceX team is working on the toughest and most audacious ... Work with counterpart engineering teams to develop and maintain launch and vehicle software. * Get ...

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All JobsGraduate Engineering JobsGraduate Engineering Jobs in California

Graduate Engineering information

See California salary details

$12

$31

$56

How much do graduate engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate engineering in California is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Graduate Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectGraduate EngineeringMechanical Engineering
QualificationsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldRequires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, often with licensure options
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and technologyDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industries like automotive, aerospace, and energy
Employer UsageEmployers hire graduate engineers for training and development programsEmployers seek mechanical engineers for product design, testing, and maintenance

Graduate Engineering is an entry-level role for those with an engineering degree, often across multiple disciplines, while Mechanical Engineering is a specialized field focusing on designing and manufacturing mechanical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in focus and career paths.

What jobs do engineering graduates get?

Engineering graduates can pursue roles such as civil, mechanical, electrical, software, or chemical engineers. These positions often require knowledge of technical tools, problem-solving skills, and sometimes professional certifications, and they are typically found in industries like manufacturing, technology, construction, and energy.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Engineer, you typically need a degree in engineering, strong analytical abilities, and a solid grasp of engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, as well as any relevant certifications, is highly beneficial. Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help set you apart in collaborative and fast-paced project environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering innovative solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.

Is earning $70,000 out of college with an engineering degree good?

For a graduate engineer, earning $70,000 annually is generally considered a competitive starting salary in many regions, especially for those with a bachelor's degree. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and specialization, but this figure often reflects a solid entry-level compensation for engineering roles involving skills like CAD, MATLAB, or project management. Additional certifications or internships can further enhance earning potential over time.

What can a graduate engineer do?

A graduate engineer can perform tasks such as assisting in design, analysis, and testing of engineering projects, supporting senior engineers, and gaining practical experience in their field. They often work with tools like CAD software and may pursue certifications to advance their careers. Entry-level roles typically involve learning industry standards and developing technical skills in a professional environment.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What is a graduate engineer?

A graduate engineer is someone who has recently completed an engineering degree, typically a bachelor's or master's, and is starting their professional career in the engineering field. They usually work under the supervision of experienced engineers while gaining practical experience and developing their technical and professional skills. Graduate engineers often participate in structured graduate programs, which may include rotations through different departments or projects. These roles are designed to help them transition from academic study to full professional responsibility.

What types of projects can a Graduate Engineer expect to work on during their first year?

As a Graduate Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects that may include supporting senior engineers with design, analysis, testing, or implementation tasks. Early in your career, you might participate in rotations across different departments or disciplines, allowing you to gain exposure to multiple areas such as project management, field work, or research and development. Typically, you'll work as part of a collaborative team, contributing to both short-term assignments and longer-term projects while receiving mentorship and feedback. This hands-on experience is designed to help you build technical skills, understand organizational processes, and identify your preferred career path within engineering.
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Engineering jobs in California? For Graduate Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Graduate Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Graduate Engineering job openings:
Graduate Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,765 per year, or $31.1 per hour.
Electrical Engineer, Graduate-Santa Clarita,California

Electrical Engineer, Graduate-Santa Clarita,California

Curtiss-Wright

San Fernando, CA

$65K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Engineering Graduate-Onsite Position
We have an opportunity for an Engineering Graduate to join our team in Santa Clarita, CA.
This role is ideal for a recent engineering graduate looking to apply their knowledge in a professional environment while gaining hands-on experience. The Graduate Engineer will work under the guidance of senior engineers, contributing to design, analysis, testing, and problem-solving efforts related to engineering projects.
Location: Santa Clarita CA
Salary Information: $65,700.00 - $87,600.00 per year
Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in California. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture
Your Challenge:
  • Assist in the design, development, testing and documentation of engineering solutions that comply with industry standards and company policies.
  • Conduct research and technical analysis to support engineering projects.
  • Utilize engineering software and tools to prepare drawings, schematics, and reports.
  • Support troubleshooting and problem resolution for engineering-related challenges.
  • Participate in project planning, documentation, and quality control processes.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable safety and regulatory requirements.
  • Engage in continuous learning and professional development to stay current with engineering advancements.
  • Identify and apply engineering best practices, showing an understanding of industry requirements.
  • Perform other engineering-related duties as assigned by supervisors.

Who We Are:
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
The Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions facility in Santa Clarita, California is the center of excellence for hardware level system integration and advanced package design.
Integrated Systems in Santa Clarita prides itself on experience, expertise, and low risk solutions. Our primary focus is understanding the technical challenges our customers face and creating partnerships in order to provide a high TRL solution.
For more information visit: Santa Clarita, California | Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions (curtisswrightds.com)
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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