ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Riverside, CA

CivicMinds, Inc.

Reliability Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$110K - $138K/yr

Ensuring electronic and electro-mechanical assemblies and products are properly designed to enable ... Recent Experience / Knowledge: * 5+ years of experience in all aspects of reliability engineering ...

VDart Inc

Restraint Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Irvine, CA (Onsite) o 5+ years of recent relevant experience o Work experience on Automotive Occupant safety components [Airbag, Occupant Sensor, ODS and Seat belt] o Mechanical Design Engineer with ...

Rosendin

AV Commissioning Manager

Anaheim, CA

Whether you're a recent grad or a seasoned professional, you can experience meaningful career ... Directly supervise a team of AV commissioning engineers and technicians (typically 4-10 team ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMechanical Engineer Recent Grad JobsMechanical Engineer Recent Grad Jobs in Riverside, CA

Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$47.5K

$107.3K

$173.7K

How much do mechanical engineer recent grad jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer recent grad in Riverside, CA is $107,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineer Recent GradMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internship experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, some design coursework
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, manufacturing or R&D settingsDesign-focused tasks, CAD software, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, energy sectorsProduct design firms, engineering consultancies, industrial equipment

The main difference between a Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad and a Mechanical Design Engineer lies in their experience and focus. Recent grads are just starting their careers with foundational skills, while Mechanical Design Engineers typically have some experience in design processes and software. Both roles often overlap in industry and credentials, but the Design Engineer role emphasizes design-specific tasks and software proficiency.

What does a Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad do?

A Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems or products. They typically work on tasks such as creating technical drawings, running simulations, conducting experiments, and supporting senior engineers in project work. Recent grads often work in industries like automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, or energy, gaining hands-on experience and building their engineering skills. They also collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, learn industry standards, and may help troubleshoot mechanical problems. This role serves as a foundation for professional growth and prepares them for more advanced engineering responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in mathematics, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD, and experience with simulation tools like ANSYS, are typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help distinguish you in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills and qualities are vital to successfully design, analyze, and implement engineering solutions that meet project and industry requirements.

What types of projects can a recent graduate in mechanical engineering expect to work on during their first year?

As a recent graduate, you can expect to be involved in a variety of entry-level projects such as assisting with product design, performing basic calculations and simulations, supporting prototype development, and preparing technical documentation. You'll often collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional teams—including manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement—to gain exposure to different aspects of the engineering process. This hands-on experience is designed to build your technical skills, familiarize you with industry standards, and prepare you for more complex responsibilities as you advance.
What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Riverside, CA? For Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings:
Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Recent Grad job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,329 per year, or $51.6 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer Refrigeration/CAD

Mechanical Engineer Refrigeration/CAD

TDI REFRIGERATION

Rancho Cucamonga, CA • On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Mechanical Engineer / CAD Designer
TDI Refrigeration:
TDI Refrigeration is hiring a Mechanical Engineer to support system design, job layout, and proposal development for industrial refrigeration projects. This is an ideal role for a recent Mechanical Engineering graduate who wants hands-on experience in real-world systems and a clear growth path. You’ll work directly under a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) and gain exposure to design, estimating, and field operations.
What You’ll Do:
Develop refrigeration process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping layouts in AutoCAD. Build 3D piping models in Inventor. Perform engineering calculations including refrigerant charge calculations, ventilation calculations, mass and energy balances, and relief valve sizing/basic relief studies. Assist with pipe stress analysis. Support proposal development and estimating for capital projects. Help lay out jobs for field installation. Assist with material takeoffs and purchasing. Support senior engineers with project execution. This role is designed to grow into greater responsibility in engineering, estimating, and project support.
What We’re Looking For:
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. AutoCAD experience preferred. Inventor or other 3D modeling experience preferred. Interest in refrigeration systems (experience is a plus, not required). Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Detail-oriented and organized. Able to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Comfortable communicating with field crews, vendors, and management. Proficient in Microsoft Office. Bonus if you enjoy technical problem solving, like improving systems that already work, and want to learn how projects are priced and built.
Benefits:
  • Health insurance for employees and dependents company pays a portion.
  • Dental and vision insurance.
  • Competitive vacation and holiday pay.
  • 401(k) plan.
  • 100% company-paid life insurance.

About TDI Refrigeration: Founded in 1999, TDI Refrigeration designs, builds, and services industrial refrigeration and commercial air conditioning systems across Southern California, Central California, Phoenix, Denver, and the Dallas/Fort Worth area. We value doing things better than right, operating with integrity, and building a team that takes ownership.