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Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate Jobs in Riverside, CA

Engineering Support Technician

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Collaborates with Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Control Engineers, and build team on ... Recent graduate or currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field ...

Engineering Support Technician

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Collaborates with Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Control Engineers, and build team on ... Recent graduate or currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field ...

We are looking for a bright, motivated, innovative, and hardworking recent graduate with a minimum of 3 years of experience to join our top notch engineering team. Here you will utilize the technical ...

We are looking for a bright, motivated, innovative, and hardworking recent graduate with a minimum of 3 years of experience to join our top notch engineering team. Here you will utilize the technical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$47.5K

$107.3K

$173.7K

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer recent graduate 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 does a mechanical engineer recent graduate do?

A Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate typically assists in designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices and systems under the supervision of experienced engineers. Their responsibilities may include creating technical drawings, performing simulations, conducting experiments, and supporting manufacturing or product development processes. They often work as part of a multidisciplinary team and use engineering software to analyze and solve real-world problems. This role is an entry-level position that provides opportunities to learn industry standards, gain practical experience, and develop professional skills.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a recent graduate mechanical engineer expect during their first year?

As a recent graduate mechanical engineer, you will likely start by supporting more experienced engineers on a variety of projects, such as preparing CAD drawings, assisting with prototyping, conducting basic calculations, and participating in design reviews. You may also be involved in testing and data analysis, as well as documenting results and presenting findings to your team. Early on, you'll gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and processes, and you'll often collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including manufacturing and quality assurance. These responsibilities are designed to build your technical foundation and teamwork skills, preparing you for more complex tasks as you progress.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate, you need a solid understanding of engineering fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), basic simulation tools, and experience with industry standards or entry-level certifications are highly beneficial. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help recent graduates stand out and adapt quickly in professional environments. These skills and qualities are important because they enable new engineers to contribute effectively to projects, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and grow within the industry.

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

AspectMechanical Engineer Recent GraduateMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internship experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, some design certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based, engineering firms or manufacturingDesign-focused, CAD software use, product development teams
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveProduct design companies, automotive, aerospace, consumer products

Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduates typically have a bachelor's degree and internship experience, working in entry-level roles within engineering or manufacturing sectors. Mechanical Design Engineers focus more on product development and CAD design, often requiring additional certifications. Both roles are common in similar industries, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ, with recent graduates gaining foundational experience and design engineers specializing in product creation.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Recent Graduate job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,329 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer Refrigeration/CAD

TDI REFRIGERATION

Rancho Cucamonga, CA โ€ข On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


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.