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Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Design Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

What you'll do Viasat is looking for a dynamic Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join our growing team. In this exciting role, you will be responsible for the design, documentation, and testing of ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site

$81K - $110K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer The Mechanical Design Engineer designs and develops complex aerospace components and assemblies using CATIA V5 and PLM tools, ensuring manufacturability, compliance with ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Windsor, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Role Description In this full-time, on-site role located in Windsor, CA, the Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing high-performance broiler ...

mechanical design engineer Overview The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for designing, validating, and sustaining pressure and temperature sensing products for aerospace applications.

Mechanical Design Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$81K - $109K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineering role is responsible for developing flight hardware for new and existing airframes. You will serve as the extreme owner of the product from concept through ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

North Hollywood, CA · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

Mechanical Design engineers and Quality checkers, with Manufacturing engineering background. 6+ yrs Aerospace experience is a must New Product Introduction In-service reliability tracking and ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Job Title:-Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Camarillo, CA (Onsite - Local Candidates Preferred) Exp. Level: 5 + Yrs Min. Skills & Description: * Solidworks 3D and good 2D drawing skills . We ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$117K - $200K/yr

The engineer will be responsible for mechanical design, analysis, documentation, prototype development, assembly support, supplier engagement, and product lifecycle support. The candidate will work ...

Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Goleta, CA Zip Code: 93117 Start Date: Right Away Job Type: Contract Pay Rate: $35 - $42/hr. DoE Keywords: #MechanicalEngineer #EngineeringJobs We provide a ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$117K - $200K/yr

The engineer will be responsible for mechanical design, analysis, documentation, prototype development, assembly support, supplier engagement, and product lifecycle support. The candidate will work ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Azusa, CA

$77K - $104K/yr

We are seeking an aspiring Mechanical Design Engineer to help us design and develop high-performance automotive products and systems using CAD, CFD, FEA tools. You will manage design projects from ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

What you'll do Viasat is looking for a dynamic Senior Mechanical Design Engineer to join our growing team. In this exciting role, you will be responsible for the design, documentation, and testing of ...

The engineer will be responsible for mechanical design, analysis, documentation, prototype development, assembly support, supplier engagement, and product lifecycle support. The candidate will work ...

Will support engineering design & analysis for packaging flight electronics.Emphasis on mechanical packaging design (both from a box level and connector/harness level). Able to understand ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 3, 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.

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 cities in California are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineer jobs?

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

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

Mechanical Design Engineer

Sensata Technologies, Inc.

Thousand Oaks, CA • On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Sensata Technologies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 160 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer responsible for designing, validating, documenting, and releasing aerospace products that meet customer requirements. This individual will lead mechanical design activities, support new product development efforts, and partner closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Customers, and Engineering teams throughout the product lifecycle.
This role supports aerospace cockpit control systems and pilot interface products for commercial and military aircraft.
The Mechanical Design Engineer collaborates with a local team or global engineering team on product design which satisfy customer specifications. This process includes design, product validation, completing documentation and executing launch items for production. Complete all related drawings, documentation and release in internal systems.
General Responsibilities
• Leverages engineering fundamentals and organization to make sound decisions on complex technical issues
• Detailed understanding of market and implications for business
• Proactively challenge and drives the organization to deliver improved quality and performance related to engineering design
• Product Strategy participant and driver
• Maintain product documentation (drawings and specifications)
• Direct interaction with customers to solicit product specifications requirements, schedule expectations and budget
• Corrosion research and welding characterization & has a strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, materials, mechanics, fluid, thermo and heat transfer
• Advanced knowledge of basic electrical circuits, microelectronic assembly, statistical methods, process control fundamentals and product test processes
• Familiarity with manufacturing methods - welding, brazing, soldering, adhesive bonding, machining, stamping, molding, and forming. Basic knowledge of core manufacturing processes
• Lead mechanical design activities while participating on cross-functional New Product Development (NPD) teams
• Assist with design prototype builds and production validation activities in collaboration with manufacturing, quality, and supply
• Familiarity with design, fabrication, modification, and evaluation in support of manufacturing operations such as machining, metal forming, plastics processing, welding and brazing, assembly, and material handling
Experience / Qualifications
• A university degree required (i.e. Bachelors degree) or equivalent relevant work experience
• Must be a team player able to work in a fast-paced environment with demonstrated ability to handle multiple competing tasks and demands
• Strong communication skills; oral, written and presentation
• Strong organization, planning and time management skills to achieve results
• Strong personal and professional ethical values and integrity
• Holds self-accountable to achieving goals and standards
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel)
• Strong interpersonal & collaboration skills to work effectively with all levels of the organization including suppliers and/or external customers
Additional Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience designing and qualifying aerospace cockpit control systems and pilot interface products for commercial and military aircraft.
  • Expertise in aerospace product development, including sensing technologies, mechanical systems, manufacturability, testing, and design validation.
  • Proven ability to lead new product development programs from concept through qualification, certification, and production release.
  • Strong knowledge of aerospace regulatory, certification, quality, and safety-critical design requirements.
  • Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams, managing technical risk, and serving as the primary technical interface with customers, suppliers, and certification authorities.

This position requires eligibility to obtain authorization under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Non-US Persons, as defined in the ITAR and EAR, may not be eligible to obtain authorization.
Base Salary Range: $ 104,560.00 - 156,840.00
At Sensata, our employees are the key to our success and growth. We recognize that each individual brings their own unique experience, therefore the base salary range information shown above is a general guideline only. Sensata considers several factors when extending an offer, including, but not limited to, a candidate's experience and qualifications, as well as internal equity, market and business considerations. In addition to base salary, Sensata offers competitive medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance plans, along with education reimbursement, wellness programs, a 401(k) retirement plan with Company matching, and a variety of paid time off, such as vacation or flex-time, sick, bereavement, and parental leave. Certain positions are also eligible for short-term incentive and long-term incentive programs.
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