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Junior Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Providing guidance to junior design staff * Supporting overall project management to our MEP team ... A Professional Engineering License (or equivalent experience) * LEED Accreditation * Experience ...

Mentor junior design engineers and coordinate with verification, DFT, and physical design teams to meet project schedules. Required Skills & Experience * Proven track record as an RTL Design Lead on ...

Mentor's junior engineers. * Provides design solutions to manufacturing problems. Identifies creative ways to overcome obstacles and meet schedule deadlines. * Performs or verifies engineering ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Leandro, CA

$85K - $116K/yr

Mentor and support junior engineers on design and integration challenges Qualifications: * Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or a related engineering field, or equivalent ...

CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$110K - $250K/yr

Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development. * Participate in design reviews, provide constructive feedback, and ...

CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$110K - $250K/yr

Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development. * Participate in design reviews, provide constructive feedback, and ...

Design Engineer 3

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$133.90 - $147.90/hr

Mentor's junior engineers. * Provides design solutions to manufacturing problems. Identifies creative ways to overcome obstacles and meet schedule deadlines. * Performs or verifies engineering ...

Design Engineer 3

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$133.90 - $147.90/hr

Mentor's junior engineers. * Provides design solutions to manufacturing problems. Identifies creative ways to overcome obstacles and meet schedule deadlines. * Performs or verifies engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

Junior Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$33.1K

$70.9K

$108.1K

How much do junior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior design engineer in California is $70,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior design engineer?

To thrive as a Junior Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset help you excel in team settings and adapt to project needs. These skills ensure accurate design work, efficient project collaboration, and successful development of innovative engineering solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by junior design engineers during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Junior Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to company-specific design processes, managing multiple project deadlines, and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Building strong communication with senior engineers and actively seeking feedback can help address these hurdles. Participating in team meetings and collaborating closely with other departments, such as manufacturing or quality assurance, also enhances understanding and ensures smoother project execution. Embracing continuous learning and leveraging available training resources will further boost confidence and technical growth in the role.

What is the difference between Junior Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectJunior Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships or entry-level certificationsBachelor's or higher in mechanical engineering; professional certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDesign departments, R&D labs, manufacturing industries
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in engineering firms, manufacturing, automotive, aerospaceMid to senior-level roles in similar industries, often with more project responsibility

The main difference is that a Junior Design Engineer is an entry-level position focusing on learning and supporting design tasks, while a Mechanical Design Engineer typically has more experience and responsibility in designing mechanical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Mechanical Design Engineer usually has more advanced skills and project ownership.

Are junior design engineers well paid?

Junior design engineers typically earn entry-level salaries that vary by industry and location but generally range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Compensation can increase with experience, additional skills such as CAD proficiency, and relevant certifications. Entry-level roles often include opportunities for professional development and skill-building in design software and engineering principles.

What is the role of a junior design engineer?

A junior design engineer assists in developing and modifying engineering designs, often using CAD software, under the supervision of senior engineers. They support project planning, perform calculations, and help ensure designs meet specifications and standards. This role typically requires basic engineering knowledge, attention to detail, and good communication skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Design Engineer jobs in California?

For Junior Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Junior Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Junior Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Principal/Senior Electrical Engineer - 26-00480

ESPO Corporation

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

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Job description

Job Title: Principal/Senior Electrical Engineer (MEP)
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Job Type and Duration: Hybrid, Direct-Hire
Pay range: $175,000 - $200,000
Key Responsibilities :
As a Principal / Senior Electrical Design Engineer (MEP) , you will be taking ownership as a discipline leader on multiple MEP projects. Your duties will include, but may not be limited to:

  • Innovative and complex electrical system design
  • Meeting and consulting with clients
  • Providing guidance to junior design staff
  • Supporting overall project management to our MEP team leaders.

Required :

  • BSEE
  • 10-15 years' prior experience with a consulting MEP practice
  • High-energy client services skills
  • Excellent communication ability
  • Complete understanding of building codes
  • Thorough design system knowledge

Preferred:

  • A Professional Engineering License (or equivalent experience)
  • LEED Accreditation
  • Experience with Revit

Company Description

ESPO Engineering, established in 1965, is a premier Technical Recruiting and Staffing firm.

ESPO employees may enjoy a full range of benefits from 401(k), Premium Health Insurance, Dental, Disability, Direct Deposit, PTO time and Holiday Pay. Apply now and see why so many professionals choose ESPO to help advance their careers.
View jobs: www.espocorp.com/jobs


ESPO logo

About ESPO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ESPO is a reputable company within the engineering and IT staffing service industry, based in Willowbrook, IL, US. Founded in 1965, ESPO has an extensive history of over five decades in providing tailored staffing solutions for clients across various sectors. Their services range from contract placement and direct hire to managed and on-site services. They also provide specialized services like Payrolling and Vendor Management. ESPO's key mission is to efficiently fulfill their clients' staffing needs while ensuring the best fit for both the client and the employee. The company takes immense pride in its proven track record in sourcing, recruiting and deploying highly skilled professionals. ESPO’s values are firmly rooted in quality, integrity, respect and commitment.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Willowbrook, IL, US

Year founded

1965