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Junior Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Ladera Ranch, CA

Train and mentor operators and junior engineers on manufacturing methods, process controls, and quality standards; elevate overall technical capability of the team. Lead productivity and cost ...

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In this role, you will support manufacturing operations by applying engineering principles to ... Mentor entry to junior engineers and provide technical guidance Preferred: * Experience using ...

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Provide guidance or technical support to technicians and junior engineers as needed Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field * 6+ years of manufacturing engineering ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$89K - $148K/yr

In this role, you will support manufacturing operations by applying engineering principles to ... Mentor entry to junior engineers and provide technical guidance Preferred: * Experience using ...

In this role, you will support manufacturing operations by applying engineering principles to ... Mentor entry to junior engineers and provide technical guidance Preferred: * Experience using ...

Manufacturing Engineer III

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$76K - $97K/yr

Provide coaching, mentoring and training to junior employees. * Lean Green Belt certification * >8-years manufacturing engineering experience in high complexity technical projects * >5 years ...

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Junior Manufacturing Engineer information

See Ladera Ranch, CA salary details

$48.4K

$71.6K

$97.3K

How much do junior manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior manufacturing engineer in Ladera Ranch, CA is $71,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,200.00 and $78,700.00 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 Ladera Ranch, CA?

The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Ladera Ranch, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Ladera Ranch, CA?

For Junior Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Ladera Ranch, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Ladera Ranch, CA are hiring for Junior Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ladera Ranch, CA with the most Junior Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Ladera Ranch, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,579 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer

Actalent

Santa Ana, CA

$110K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Description

Sr Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for the technical development, oversight and improvement of manufacturing processes within the area of responsibility. This individual will lead process optimization, technical problem-solving, and cross-functional manufacturing initiatives. This role is accountable for achieving senior-level competence Plans and presents engineering program and product design reviews for compliance with engineering principles, company standards, customer contract requirements, and related specifications. Develops and requests design and specification change releases. Assesses and communicates impact of engineering initiatives to functional groups. Develop, release, and maintain detailed technical work instructions for the manufacture and repair of aerospace metallic structures and assemblies, ensuring full compliance with customer(s) engineering definition and regulatory requirements. Partner with CNC Programming group to develop and implement manufacturing plan for complex metallic machined components/assemblies. Provide advanced technical support to Quality and Operations teams to achieve site-level Safety, Cost, Quality, and Delivery (SCQD) objectives; act as a primary escalation point for complex manufacturing issues. Partner with Purchasing and Sales during the quoting process to define manufacturing approach, assess technical risk, establish labor standards, and ensure cost competitiveness. Establish and validate operational standard hours using time studies and process analysis; drive accuracy in routing and capacity planning assumptions. Review engineering drawings, specifications, and model-based definitions to ensure manufacturability; translate design requirements into controlled shop-floor documentation. Train and mentor operators and junior engineers on manufacturing methods, process controls, and quality standards; elevate overall technical capability of the team. Lead productivity and cost-reduction initiatives through Lean principles, waste elimination, and process optimization; quantify and report measurable performance improvements. Develop, validate, and industrialize manufacturing processes for new product introduction (NPI), ensuring processes meet defined capability, repeatability, and quality targets prior to production release.

Skills

Manufacturing engineering, cnc machines, Process improvement, Manufacturing process, Lean manufacturing, Project management, Tooling, Solidworks

Top Skills Details

Manufacturing engineering,cnc machines

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or relevant technical discipline, or HS Diploma/GED w/equivalent composite/aerospace manufacturing/repair experience. 5+ years of technical experience with composites and/or aerospace components production or repair.

Experience Level

Intermediate Level

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Santa Ana, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $110000.00 - $140000.00/yr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage: Benefits begin on day one of employment Paid Time Off: We offer a permissible time off / unlimited PTO approach, providing flexibility for personal time while ensuring business needs are met Holidays: 12 paid holidays per year 401(k) Plan: Company match of 100% on the first 3% and 50% on the next 3% of contributions Life Insurance: Company-paid coverage at 2x your annual base salary

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Santa Ana,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 1, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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