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Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Xforia, Inc.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Sacramento, CA Key Skills: Mechanical Design | Inventor | Automation | Tooling | Prototype | Testing | DFM | materials and manufacturing processes | Project ...

Actalent

Mechanical Design Engineer

Burbank, CA

$73K - $88K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for designing, validating, and sustaining pressure and temperature sensing products for aerospace applications. This role ...

Pacific Fusion

Mechanical Design Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Why This Role Matters As a Mechanical Design Engineer , you will help with the design, development, and integration and validation of mechanical components and systems integral to our advanced fusion ...

Sanmina

Mechanical Design Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$90K - $122K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for mechanical design and development of electromechanical products. The scope of responsibilities includes complete product development cycle from ...

CMC Rescue Inc

Mechanical Design Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

We're looking for an experienced mechanical design engineer ready to take the next step in their career and contribute to an employee-owned company whose mission is to help save lives. This is a ...

JMJ PHILLIP

Mechanical Design Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$73 - $88/hr

We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to develop innovative mechanical designs, support product development, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality engineering ...

Actalent

Mechanical Design Engineer

Burbank, CA

$73K - $88K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for designing, validating, and sustaining pressure and temperature sensing products for aerospace applications. This role ...

Vast

Mechanical Design Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$86K - $122K/yr

Vast is looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer , reporting to the Manager, Structures Design, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial ...

Northwoodspace

Mechanical Design Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$84K - $119K/yr

Role: Northwood is seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer to join our dynamic team, specializing in the design of structures, systems, tooling, and other products for our ground station antennas.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsMechanical Design Engineer JobsMechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California

Mechanical Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$90.4K

$134.7K

How much do mechanical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineer in California is $90,379.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mechanical design engineer do?

A Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices and systems. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed blueprints and models, ensuring that products meet required specifications and standards. Their work often involves problem-solving, selecting appropriate materials, and collaborating with other engineers and teams to bring a concept from idea to production. Mechanical Design Engineers are found in a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and relevant certifications (like FE or PE) is highly valuable. Strong teamwork, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate on multidisciplinary projects and present design solutions. These abilities are crucial for developing innovative, manufacturable designs that meet both technical requirements and client needs.

What are some typical challenges mechanical design engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Mechanical Design Engineers often collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing teams. One common challenge is ensuring that mechanical designs align with the requirements and constraints of other disciplines, such as electronics placement or thermal management. Effective communication and regular meetings are crucial to resolve conflicts, address design changes, and keep projects on schedule. Building strong cross-functional relationships helps Mechanical Design Engineers anticipate potential issues early and deliver integrated solutions.

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

AspectMechanical Design EngineerMechanical Drafter
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredAssociate degree or technical diploma in drafting or CAD technology
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDrafting departments, engineering firms, manufacturing settings
ResponsibilitiesDesigns, analyzes, and develops mechanical systems and componentsCreates detailed technical drawings and plans based on engineers' designs

The main difference is that Mechanical Design Engineers focus on designing and developing mechanical systems, requiring engineering degrees and licenses, while Mechanical Drafters prepare detailed drawings based on engineers' concepts, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles work closely in the engineering process but serve different functions within the product development cycle.

What is the work of a Mechanical Design Engineer?

A Mechanical Design Engineer develops and creates mechanical systems, components, and products using CAD software and engineering principles. They analyze specifications, perform simulations, and collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are functional, efficient, and manufacturable.
More about Mechanical Design Engineer jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mechanical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,379 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Columbus Technologies and Services Inc

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$70 - $94/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

OVERVIEW
Must be a US Citizen
Duration - 6 month contract position with potential to be extended or converted
W2 with full benefits
Customer and contract specific training will be required and provided.
Location - NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, CA (onsite)
Offer contingent on ability to successfully pass a background check and drug screen
Salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

JOB DESCRIPTION
This is an opportunity to be a Mechanical Design Engineer in the Engineering Design group at JPL, which engages in the engineering and design of advanced spacecraft, instruments and robotic mechanisms for exploration of the solar system.
  • Performing as a Design Engineer for JPL on a spacecraft, instrument or robotic project.
  • Creating complex CAD models, assemblies and engineering drawings.
  • Working with world class engineers and participating on teams in a highly collaborative environment.
  • Developing and running configuration trades on the mechanical system of a spacecraft project.
  • Interfacing with space science experts, analysts, manufacturing engineers, and project staff.
  • Performing conceptual spacecraft design for feasibility and cost estimates of future missions.
REQUIRED SKILLS
Experience and knowledge in the following areas:
  • Mechanical design of spacecraft primary and secondary structures, mechanisms and instruments.
  • Engineering CAD (Computer-Aided Design) tools such as Siemens NX (preferred), CATIA or Creo.
  • Creating engineering drawings using the ASME Y14.100-2017 standard.
  • Creating detail drawings, assembly drawings, interface drawings and source control drawings.
  • Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) using ASME Y14.5-2018.
  • Application of advanced principles, theories, concepts and techniques in solving mechanical engineering problems.
  • Adept at performing trade studies and developing conceptual configurations.
  • Aerospace fabrication processes.
  • Aerospace material selection.
  • PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) tools such as Teamcenter (preferred), Enovia or Windchill.
DESIRED SKILLS
  • TS/SCI
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action

Columbus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, national origin, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. As a federal contractor, Columbus participates in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.