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Manufacturing Design Engineer Jobs in California

Archer

Sr. Manufacturing Design Engineer - eMotor

San Jose, CA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

We are seeking a deeply technical, hands-on Sr. Manufacturing Design Engineer to serve as the primary bridge between R&D product design and physical production execution. In this role, you will lead ...

Delos

Manufacturing Design Program Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150 - $190/hr

We co-design chips, racks, software, and manufacturing to deliver best-in-class throughput and ... Backed by hundreds of millions from top-tier investors and staffed by leading engineers, Etched is ...

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All JobsManufacturing Design Engineer JobsManufacturing Design Engineer Jobs in California

Manufacturing Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$85K

$134.2K

How much do manufacturing design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing design engineer in California is $85,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing design engineer?

A Manufacturing Design Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes and equipment to efficiently produce products. They work closely with product designers, engineers, and production teams to ensure that products are manufacturable, cost-effective, and meet quality standards. Their role often involves selecting materials, designing tools and fixtures, and troubleshooting production issues. Manufacturing Design Engineers play a key role in improving productivity, reducing waste, and implementing new technologies in the manufacturing process.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Design Engineer, you need expertise in mechanical design, manufacturing processes, and a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), familiarity with ERP systems, and certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing are typically beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and innovate within cross-functional teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing efficient, high-quality production solutions and driving continuous improvement in manufacturing environments.

How does a manufacturing design engineer typically collaborate with production and quality teams during a new product launch?

Manufacturing Design Engineers work closely with production and quality teams throughout the new product launch process. They ensure that designs are optimized for manufacturability, facilitate prototype testing, and address any issues that arise on the production floor. Regular meetings and feedback loops help refine processes and resolve design or quality challenges quickly. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for delivering products that meet both performance and quality standards.

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

AspectManufacturing Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning manufacturing processes and equipmentDesigning mechanical components and systems
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsDesign offices, R&D labs, engineering departments
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering or related; certifications like Six SigmaBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often similar certifications
Industry UsageManufacturing, industrial production, automotiveProduct design, machinery, aerospace, automotive

Manufacturing Design Engineers focus on developing manufacturing processes and equipment to optimize production, while Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on creating mechanical parts and systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Design Engineer jobs in CA?

For Manufacturing Design Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Manufacturing Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,020 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Design Engineer (NPI & Robotics)

Skild AI

San Mateo, CA

$83K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

The Manufacturing Design Engineer will support the transition of robotic prototypes into small-scale production. This role combines mechanical design with hands-on assembly, working directly with hardware to ensure systems can be built, tested, and maintained reliably. You will design the fixtures, tooling, and processes required to assemble and operate a small fleet of robots, while collaborating closely with engineering teams to improve manufacturability and build efficiency as designs evolve.

Responsibilities
  • Use CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar) to design and iterate on assembly jigs, test fixtures, and specialized tooling that improve build speed and repeatability.
  • Perform full-system assembly of robotic prototypes and small-batch production units, integrating mechanical, electrical, and sensing components.
  • Build and route cable harnesses, integrate sensors and actuators, and bring robotic subsystems together into functional platforms.
  • Provide DFM/DFA feedback during early design phases to identify assembly challenges and improve robustness, serviceability, and scalability.
  • Create and maintain assembly procedures, bills of materials (BOMs), and test protocols that enable consistent builds across the fleet.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Background in a technician, assembly, robotics, or shop-heavy environment. Comfortable using common hand tools, power tools, and lab equipment.
  • Professional experience designing functional parts, fixtures, or mechanical systems in a modern CAD environment.
  • Ability to read electrical schematics and perform tasks such as crimping, soldering, and cable harness fabrication.
  • Experience working with evolving hardware designs and supporting the transition from prototype to production.
  • Experience writing manufacturing process instructions (MPIs) or assembly documentation
  • Hands-on prototyping experience with 3D printing, mills, or lathes
  • Familiarity with hardware version control processes (ECOs/ECNs) and documentation systems
  • Experience building or assembling robotic systems

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