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Junior Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in California

Manufacturing Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Create and maintain work definition for product manufacturing. This includes maintaining routings ... Work independently with minimal supervision and periodically mentor junior engineers. * Ability to ...

New

Manufacturing Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The Manufacturing Engineer is expected to oversee the activities associated with the planning ... Ability to mentor and develop junior staff * Create part fabrication documentation as required to ...

Manufacturing Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Mentor junior team members as needed What You Bring Experience * 5+ years of Manufacturing Engineering experience (composites preferred) * Experience supporting products from development through ...

Manufacturing Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $96K/yr

Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers and manufacturing support staff. * Lead Kaizen events, RCCA investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives across departments. * Contribute to ...

Manufacturing Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Mentor junior team members as needed What You Bring Experience * 5+ years of Manufacturing Engineering experience (composites preferred) * Experience supporting products from development through ...

Create and maintain work definition for product manufacturing. This includes maintaining routings ... Work independently with minimal supervision and periodically mentor junior engineers. * Ability to ...

New

Manufacturing Engineer

San Diego, CA

$75K - $96K/yr

Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers and manufacturing support staff. * Lead Kaizen events, RCCA investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives across departments. * Contribute to ...

Manufacturing Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers and manufacturing support staff. * Lead Kaizen events, RCCA investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives across departments. * Contribute to ...

Work independently with minimal supervision and periodically mentor junior engineers. * Ability to ... Applied knowledge of related manufacturing operations * Experience with machining processes ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Provide mentoring to junior engineers * Implement continuous improvements on shop floor to increase productivity Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Manufacturing Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$66.5K

$90.3K

How much do junior manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior manufacturing engineer in California is $66,453.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior manufacturing engineer?

Junior Manufacturing Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, and improving manufacturing processes within a production facility. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure products are manufactured efficiently, safely, and at high quality. Their responsibilities often include analyzing workflow, troubleshooting equipment issues, and implementing process improvements. Junior Manufacturing Engineers typically collaborate with other departments such as quality control, maintenance, and production to meet organizational goals.

How does a junior manufacturing engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams on process improvements?

As a Junior Manufacturing Engineer, you’ll regularly work alongside production supervisors, quality assurance staff, and design engineers to identify and implement process improvements. Collaboration often involves participating in team meetings, gathering feedback on manufacturing challenges, and supporting root cause analysis for production issues. You may also assist in developing and testing new workflows, ensuring changes meet safety and efficiency standards. This cross-functional teamwork not only boosts your problem-solving skills but also provides a well-rounded view of the entire manufacturing process.

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

To thrive as a Junior Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving, and process improvement, usually supported by a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, manufacturing execution systems (MES), and quality control tools like Six Sigma or Lean methodologies is commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across departments and adapt to production challenges. These skills and qualities are crucial for optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality, and supporting efficient operations.

What is the difference between Junior Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectJunior Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, process improvement, and collaboration with engineering teamsHands-on equipment operation and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing plants, engineering firms, product developmentFactories, production lines, assembly plants

Junior Manufacturing Engineers focus on process design, improvement, and engineering analysis, often requiring a degree. Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in manufacturing settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How much do junior manufacturing engineers earn?

Junior manufacturing engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and experience. Entry-level roles may start lower, while additional skills such as CAD or Six Sigma can increase earning potential.

Is a junior manufacturing engineer a stressful job?

A junior manufacturing engineer role can involve stress due to tight production schedules, problem-solving, and quality control responsibilities. However, the level of stress varies depending on the work environment, workload, and support from team members. Developing technical skills and time management can help manage job-related stress.

Is a junior manufacturing engineer entry level?

Yes, a junior manufacturing engineer is typically an entry-level position suitable for recent graduates or those with limited industry experience. It often involves learning manufacturing processes, using tools like CAD software, and developing skills under supervision. Advancement usually requires gaining experience and technical knowledge.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Junior Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Manufacturing Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Junior Manufacturing Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,453 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Process Engineering Technician

Sterling Engineering

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$32/hr

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Location:

Milpitas, CA


Hire Type:

Contract-to-Hire (Long-Term Opportunity)


Shift:

1st Shift | Monday-Friday | 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM


Compensation:

$32.00/hr


Overview:

We are seeking a Process Engineering Technician to support production operations and partner closely with Manufacturing Engineers to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve manufacturing issues. This role is ideal for someone with a proactive mindset who enjoys problem-solving, learning new processes, and serving as a bridge between engineering and production teams. The Process Engineering Technician will help move production processes forward by supporting equipment, materials, tools, fixtures, and process improvements while ensuring clear communication across multiple groups.


Job Duties:

  • Support Manufacturing Engineers in troubleshooting and resolving production and process-related issues.
  • Investigate manufacturing challenges involving equipment, materials, tools, fixtures, and workflows.
  • Perform root cause analysis to identify issues and implement corrective actions.
  • Communicate technical specifications and process requirements to production teams in a clear and understandable manner.
  • Monitor production processes and proactively identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Report process concerns, production issues, and equipment-related problems promptly.
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Production, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to improve manufacturing performance.
  • Support process documentation, data collection, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Utilize computer systems and software tools to track, analyze, and report production data.
  • Assist with process validation, testing, training, and implementation of new procedures as needed.


Qualifications:

  • Technical aptitude with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to perform root cause analysis and think critically when addressing production issues.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across multiple departments.
  • Comfortable serving as a liaison between Engineering and Production teams.
  • Computer savvy with experience using Windows-based systems; Linux experience is a plus.
  • Process-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently even when procedures are not fully defined.
  • Willingness to learn, accept training, and adapt to changing priorities.
  • Comfortable speaking up and escalating issues when necessary.
  • Strong attention to detail and a proactive, solutions-focused approach.
  • Manufacturing, engineering technician, process technician, or production support experience preferred.


Ideal Background:

  • Process Technician
  • Manufacturing Technician
  • Engineering Technician
  • Production Technician
  • Quality Technician
  • Junior Manufacturing Engineer
  • Process Improvement Technician
  • Technical Production Support Specialist


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.