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Lead Product Development Engineer Jobs in California

This role will lead to responsibility for next generation product development, from technology ... The engineer must be able to complete the initial diagnosis of any system issue, uncover root cause ...

The Opportunity As a Product Development Engineer, you will be part of the Abbott R&D team ... Lead failure analysis activities, including mechanical evaluations, inspection, measurement ...

This role will lead to responsibility for next generation product development, from technology ... The engineer must be able to complete the initial diagnosis of any system issue, uncover root cause ...

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Product Development Engineer

Vernon, CA ยท On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

As a Product Development Engineer at Elco Lighting, you will play a pivotal role in the entire product lifecycle, from concept generation to final production. You will collaborate with cross ...

The Opportunity As a Product Development Engineer, you will be part of the Abbott R&D team ... Lead failure analysis activities, including mechanical evaluations, inspection, measurement ...

We are seeking Product Development Engineers who are experienced, creative problem solvers in ... Lead failure analysis of ATE-related escapes - specifically failures seen at system-level and ...

We are seeking Product Development Engineers who are experienced, creative problem solvers in ... Work closely with qualification lead to ensure timelines are met, risks are highlighted, and ...

The Surfscan group includes a team of engineers, technology development, apps engineers and product ... Lead rootcause investigations using data analysis, physical inspection, and experimentation ...

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Lead Product Development Engineer information

See California salary details

$39K

$86.7K

$130.8K

How much do lead product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead product development engineer in California is $86,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a lead product development engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product lifecycle?

A Lead Product Development Engineer regularly works closely with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, quality assurance, marketing, and supply chain departments. This collaboration ensures that product requirements are clearly understood, technical challenges are addressed efficiently, and deliverables meet both customer and business expectations. Effective communication and project management are essential, as the Lead Engineer often facilitates meetings, integrates feedback, and aligns teams to maintain project timelines and quality standards. Cross-functional teamwork is especially critical during key phases such as prototyping, testing, and product launch.

What is the difference between Lead Product Development Engineer vs Product Development Engineer?

AspectLead Product Development EngineerProduct Development Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, relevant certifications often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, collaborates across departments, oversees project executionDesigns, develops, and tests products under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech, manufacturing, and engineering firms for senior technical rolesCommon in similar industries for entry to mid-level roles

The Lead Product Development Engineer typically holds a senior technical position, overseeing product development teams and projects, while the Product Development Engineer focuses on designing and testing products under guidance. The lead role involves more leadership and strategic responsibilities, whereas the engineer role emphasizes technical execution.

What does a lead product development engineer do?

A Lead Product Development Engineer oversees the design, development, and testing of new products from concept to production. They coordinate cross-functional teams, manage project timelines, and ensure products meet both technical and market requirements. Additionally, they solve engineering challenges, mentor junior engineers, and communicate progress to stakeholders. Their role is critical in bringing innovative products to market efficiently and effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead product development engineer?

To thrive as a Lead Product Development Engineer, you need expertise in engineering principles, product design, and project management, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering and relevant experience. Familiarity with CAD software, product lifecycle management (PLM) systems, and agile development methodologies is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you guide teams and collaborate across functions. These skills ensure innovative products are delivered on time, meet quality standards, and align with business objectives.
What job categories do people searching Lead Product Development Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Product Development Engineer jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Lead Product Development Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,733 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Product Development Engineer

DSA Phototech LLC

Compton, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

As a Product Development Engineer at DSA Signage, you will lead and support the design and development of new products from early concept through production. You will serve as the technical owner for multiple projects, balancing customer requirements, manufacturability, cost targets, and quality standards. This role requires a strong foundation in engineering principles, practical fabrication experience, and the ability to independently manage projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop new signage and display products from concept through production release

• Create detailed 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings in SolidWorks to support standard and custom design requirements

• Design for manufacturing and assembly (DFM/DFA), with a focus on sheet metal fabrication including cutting, forming, and joining

• Maintain and manage product cost targets through material selection, design optimization, and supplier collaboration

• Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs) and work closely with procurement to order new and existing components

• Conduct and lead design review meetings, incorporating cross-functional feedback

• Perform basic FEA or structural analysis as needed to validate designs

• Apply and interpret GD&T per ASME Y14.5-2009, including tolerance stack-up analysis on parts and assemblies

• Track project status, manage priorities, and provide timely updates to stakeholders

• Support prototype builds, testing, and design validation

• Work closely with sales to understand customer needs throughout the development process

• Collaborate with internal teams and fabrication partners to resolve manufacturing, and quality issues


DSA Signage logo

About DSA Signage

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DSA Signage is a minority-owned, women-led business that values integrity, transparency, teamwork, and accountability. Our mission is to sustainably elevate and brighten your brand as a collaborative expert partner. We have a vision to be the most sustainable and reliable brand partner for our clients.

Industry

Marketing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Rancho Dominguez, CA, US

Year founded

1975