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Graduate Mechanical Engineering Jobs in California

L3HHCM20

$102K - $189K/yr

Graduate Degree and a minimum of 4 years of prior mechanical engineering experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 10 years of prior mechanical engineering experience. Preferred Additional Skills:

L3HHCM20

Specialist, Mechanical Engineering

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$88K - $164K/yr

Specialist, Mechanical Engineering Job Code: 40485 Job Location: Carlsbad, CA - 100% Onsite Job ... Graduate Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum ...

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Graduate Mechanical Engineering information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$101.5K

$164.3K

How much do graduate mechanical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate mechanical engineering 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 graduate mechanical engineer do?

A Graduate Mechanical Engineer is an entry-level professional who assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and products. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers and contribute to projects by performing calculations, creating technical drawings, and participating in problem-solving activities. Graduate Mechanical Engineers often help with research, product development, and the implementation of engineering solutions across various industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. Their role provides valuable hands-on experience and is a stepping stone to more advanced engineering positions.

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

As a Graduate Mechanical Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects, ranging from assisting in the design and analysis of mechanical systems to supporting testing and prototyping. Typically, you will work closely with experienced engineers, contributing to tasks such as CAD modeling, preparing technical documentation, and conducting basic calculations. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including electrical engineers, project managers, and manufacturing staff—is common, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of the project lifecycle. This structure helps you build practical skills, understand industry standards, and set the foundation for future specialization or leadership roles.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of industry standards is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative projects and present technical concepts clearly. These skills are vital for designing innovative solutions, ensuring project success, and contributing positively to multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Graduate Mechanical Engineering vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectGraduate Mechanical EngineeringMechanical Design Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or Design
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level roles, labs, manufacturingDesign offices, R&D departments, manufacturing firms
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in projects, learning engineering principlesCreating and testing mechanical designs, CAD modeling
Industry UsageEntry-level, training, foundational rolesDesign-focused roles, product development

Graduate Mechanical Engineering roles typically involve entry-level tasks, internships, and foundational learning in mechanical principles. Mechanical Design Engineers focus on creating and refining mechanical components using CAD tools, often requiring more specialized design skills. Both roles are common in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and related industries, but the design engineer position usually demands more technical design expertise.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Graduate Mechanical Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Graduate Mechanical Engineering job openings:

Graduate Mechanical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Mechanical Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,531 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Part Time Faculty- Mechanical Engineering

Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$2.5K/wk

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Loyola Marymount University rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering at Loyola Marymount University (LMU) is continually seeking applications for part-time faculty instructors in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. There may not be openings at this time, but your application will be kept on file. Applications will be reviewed as specific openings occur. The position, when needed, is assumed to be a one-semester appointment, and will typically involve teaching 1-2 courses. Part-time faculty may be needed in the following areas of mechanical engineering: dynamical systems, manufacturing, materials, mechanical design, solid mechanics, and thermal fluid systems.
The department currently offers programs leading to the B.S.E. (ABET accredited), M.S., and combined B.S.E.+M.S. degrees in mechanical engineering and has six full-time faculty members, numerous adjunct faculty who work in industry, and approximately 160 undergraduates and 20 graduate students. The department is committed to offering pedagogically effective, engaging, and transformative learning opportunities for our students in both the practical and theoretical aspects of the field. Undergraduates complete a one-year, hands-on capstone design sequence and most participate in faculty-mentored research and/or student-led design clubs, including ASME, SAE student design competitions. Graduate students participate in faculty-mentored research through a thesis degree option. Students are supported personally and professionally through several first-to-go programs, the thriving Society of Women Engineers, and the National Society of Black Engineers. More info is available at cse.lmu.edu/me.
The following is a non-exhaustive list of instructor job responsibilities: prepare and distribute a course syllabus; prepare and lead class sessions; hold regular office hours and answer student questions; develop, distribute, and/or grade discussion materials, homework, quizzes, projects, and other course materials; write, proctor, and grade midterm and final examinations; maintain and timely submit class records, such as attendance and grade reports; attend meetings and training, as needed; and comply with all university standards and requirements.
Minimum Qualifications
Prior teaching experience is preferable. Must have the ability to use browser-based software services, and standard classroom and office equipment. Position requires excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills. Successful candidates will be dedicated to 1) teaching a diverse student body in a transformative learning environment across a range of undergraduate and graduate mechanical engineering courses and 2) challenging themselves, their students, and their colleagues to work toward greater diversity, equity, and inclusion in the engineering profession.
Required Education
A master's or doctorate level degree
The following application materials must be submitted online at jobs.lmu.edu in order for an applicant to be considered for this position:
  • A cover letter describing your qualifications for the position and your overall vision for your role as an Instructor in the LMU Department of Mechanical Engineering
  • A curriculum vitae detailing your educational background, work experience, and research accomplishments (if applicable), as well as any other experience that you believe is relevant to this position
  • A statement of your teaching philosophy, including a list of courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels that you will be comfortable teaching

Minimum salary is $2,517 per unit taught.
#HERC# #HEJ#
Faculty Regular
Loyola Marymount University, a Carnegie classified R2 institution in the mainstream of American Catholic higher education, seeks outstanding applicants who value its mission and share its commitment to inclusive excellence, the education of the whole person, and the building of a just society. LMU is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment as defined by federal, state and local law. We invite all persons in the full diversity of their being, life experience, and beliefs to apply. (Visit www.lmu.edu for more information.)

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