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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in California

PSI

Mechanical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Facilitates seamless product transfer from engineering to manufacturing, ensuring robust ... Acts as a technical mentor to associate engineers, conducting rigorous design reviews and fostering ...

PSI

Mechanical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Facilitates seamless product transfer from engineering to manufacturing, ensuring robust ... Acts as a technical mentor to associate engineers, conducting rigorous design reviews and fostering ...

Russell Tobin

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$69 - $73.54/hr

Develop engineering documentation, including drawings, specifications, and design packages ... Thanks & Regards Archit Sharma Senior Associate - Recruitment - EST 609-353-5246 archit.sharma ...

New

L3HHCM20

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$88K - $105K/yr

Associate, Mechanical Engineer Job ID: 38930 Job Location: Carlsbad, CA Job Schedule: 9/80 ... To be eligible, applicants must be pursuing Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related ...

Posted today

GEI Consultants

Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$53 - $65/hr

GEI's Mechanical engineering group needs staff to support its growing client base and is seeking an associate to senior level Mechanical Engineer. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly ...

GEI Consultants

Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

GEI's Mechanical engineering group needs staff to support its growing client base and is seeking an associate to senior level Mechanical Engineer. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly ...

GEI Consultants

Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · Hybrid

$53 - $65/hr

GEI's Mechanical engineering group needs staff to support its growing client base and is seeking an associate to senior level Mechanical Engineer. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsMechanical Engineering Associate JobsMechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in California

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$101.5K

$164.3K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in California is $101,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $124,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical engineering associate?

Mechanical Engineering Associates are early-career professionals who support engineering teams in designing, testing, and improving mechanical systems and products. They typically assist with creating technical drawings, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and solving engineering problems under the supervision of senior engineers. This role is often a starting point for recent graduates in mechanical engineering, offering hands-on experience and opportunities to learn industry practices. Mechanical Engineering Associates may work in various sectors, such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineering associate?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineering Associate, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation tools, as well as exposure to industry standards like ASME, is often required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and convey technical concepts clearly. These capabilities ensure high-quality project outcomes and efficient integration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Associate vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering AssociateMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or equivalentBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting roles in design, testing, and manufacturingDesign, analysis, and project management responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, product development, and technical supportDesign firms, industrial companies, and R&D departments

The Mechanical Engineering Associate typically holds an associate's degree and performs support tasks in engineering projects, while the Mechanical Engineer has a bachelor's degree and takes on more complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles are essential in engineering teams, but the associate role is more entry-level and supportive in nature.

What are the most common challenges faced by mechanical engineering associates when transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering tasks?

One of the most common challenges Mechanical Engineering Associates encounter is adapting to the pace and complexity of real-world engineering projects compared to academic assignments. In industry, projects often involve tight deadlines, multidisciplinary teams, and the need to balance technical accuracy with practical constraints like budget and manufacturability. Associates must also become proficient in using industry-standard software and tools, and learn to interpret and apply company-specific standards. Effective communication with senior engineers and other departments is essential for success in this collaborative environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,531 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer

PSI

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our company in San Jose. If you thrive on solving challenging hardware problems and want to make a direct impact on cutting-edge technology, this opportunity offers a rewarding and dynamic environment for professional growth while helping bring innovative, reliable products to market. It is an exciting time to join our team!

The Senior Mechanical Engineer serves as a core team member and technical contributor within our engineering organization, bringing deep expertise and hands-on experience to the design and development of complex electromechanical systems. In this role, you will drive products from initial concept through production release, taking ownership of the New Product Introduction (NPI) process with a strong sense of accountability for delivering commercially ready solutions. Responsibilities include leading mechanical system design, analysis, prototyping, validation and reliability testing, product optimization, and coordinating the successful transition from engineering to manufacturing. You will conduct rigorous prototype evaluations to assess performance, reliability, and safety, leveraging data-driven insights to continuously improve product quality and functionality. Success in this position requires solid project management skills, strong cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to effectively coordinate activities across engineering, operations, and production teams to ensure seamless product launches.

Key Responsibilities

  • Leads mechanical system design activities from initial concept through production release, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective, and manufacturable product solutions
  • Drives the New Product Introduction (NPI) process, taking ownership of design, prototyping, validation, reliability testing, and commercial readiness
  • Performs mechanical analysis, testing, and data-driven optimization to verify performance, safety, regulatory compliance, and overall product quality
  • Leads root-cause investigations to troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical issues or failures in production or at customer field sites
  • Facilitates seamless product transfer from engineering to manufacturing, ensuring robust documentation, CAD standards, and effective knowledge transfer
  • Coordinates cross-functional activities across engineering, operations, supply chain, and quality to ensure successful product development and launch
  • Evaluates customer proposals and vendor bids to assess design feasibility, cost, maintenance requirements, and compliance with technical specifications
  • Manages project timelines, priorities, and deliverables with a strong sense of ownership, accountability, and attention to detail
  • Acts as a technical mentor to associate engineers, conducting rigorous design reviews and fostering a strong sense of safety in all activities

Requirements

Experience and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, master's degree in mechanical engineering preferred
  • 5-10 years of hands-on experience designing/developing mechanical components and systems
  • Proficiency in core engineering design principles, analysis methods, and 3D CAD software
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively across interdisciplinary teams
  • Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and thrive under pressure
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally to customers sites, as needed
  • Current authorization to work in the United States is required

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Work From Home

Apply