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Mechanical Engineering Manager Jobs in Riverside, CA

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

Reporting to the Mechanical Engineering Manager, the Sr. Mechanical Engineer will will lead or contribute to all aspects of spacecraft mechanical design, including spacecraft layout, structural and ...

Design Engineering Manager

Tustin, CA · On-site

$117K - $211K/yr

The Design Engineering Manager will oversee the Opto-Mechanical Design Engineering Department at Attalon Optical Systems, managing and training a team of highly skilled engineers. This role includes ...

Design Engineering Manager

Tustin, CA · On-site

$117.64 - $211.83/hr

About this position The Design Engineering Manager will oversee the Opto-Mechanical Design Engineering Department at Attalon Optical Systems, managing and training a team of highly skilled engineers.

S. mechanical engineering or equivalent degree required * Project management certificate preferred * Minimum 5 years of experience as an Engineering Manager * Experience as an engineer in the pump ...

S. mechanical engineering or equivalent degree required * Project management certificate preferred * Minimum 5 years of experience as an Engineering Manager * Experience as an engineer in the pump ...

S. mechanical engineering or equivalent degree required * Project management certificate preferred * Minimum 5 years of experience as an Engineering Manager * Experience as an engineer in the pump ...

Engineering Manager

Grand Terrace, CA · On-site

$138K - $152K/yr

S. mechanical engineering or equivalent degree required * Project management certificate preferred * Minimum 5 years of experience as an Engineering Manager * Experience as an engineer in the pump ...

Engineering Manager

Grand Terrace, CA · On-site

$138K - $152K/yr

S. mechanical engineering or equivalent degree required * Project management certificate preferred * Minimum 5 years of experience as an Engineering Manager * Experience as an engineer in the pump ...

Showing results 21-40

Mechanical Engineering Manager information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$75.1K

$130.6K

$187.8K

How much do mechanical engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering manager in Riverside, CA is $130,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,500.00 and $149,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a mechanical engineering manager do?

The responsibilities of a mechanical engineering manager involve overseeing a team of design engineers. In this position, your management duties typically include technical and design operations as well as administrative tasks. You plan a budget, work schedule, and benchmarks and deadlines for each project. You also work with stakeholders and other managers to define objectives for each project. During a project, you use computer-aided design and drafting programs to manage the technical and planning aspects of projects. A manager also works in the field to ensure that building, installation, or manufacturing match their design and technical specifications.

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

A Mechanical Engineering Manager needs a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, project management, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering along with relevant experience. Familiarity with CAD software, engineering simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications like PMP are highly valuable. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal communication skills help them effectively guide teams and collaborate across departments. These competencies ensure projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and within budget while fostering innovation and team development.

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

AspectMechanical Engineering ManagerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, often with leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, manages projects, strategic planningDesign, analysis, testing, and development tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and industrial firmsApplied across similar industries for technical roles

The main difference is that a Mechanical Engineering Manager focuses on team leadership, project management, and strategic oversight, while a Mechanical Engineer concentrates on technical design, analysis, and development tasks. Both roles require a strong engineering background, but the manager role involves more leadership and administrative responsibilities.

What does a mechanical engineering manager do?

A Mechanical Engineering Manager oversees teams of mechanical engineers and technicians, guiding the design, development, and testing of mechanical devices and systems. They are responsible for managing project timelines, budgets, and ensuring technical quality and compliance with safety standards. Additionally, they collaborate with other departments, mentor engineering staff, and help resolve complex technical problems. Their role is a blend of leadership, project management, and engineering expertise.

What does a mechanical engineering manager get paid?

A mechanical engineering manager's average salary typically ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often oversee engineering teams, manage projects, and require strong technical skills and leadership abilities.

How does a mechanical engineering manager typically balance project leadership with mentoring team members?

A Mechanical Engineering Manager often juggles overseeing project progress and deliverables while also dedicating time to mentor and develop their engineering team. This balance is achieved by setting clear project milestones, delegating tasks appropriately, and fostering open communication channels. Regular one-on-one meetings and technical reviews allow managers to support individual growth and address challenges early, ensuring both team performance and employee development. Effective managers also create opportunities for team members to take on increasing responsibilities, promoting career advancement within the organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Manager jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Mechanical Engineering Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Manager job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,579 per year, or $62.8 per hour.

$112K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Sr. Mechanical Engineer  to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Mechanical Engineering Manager, the Sr. Mechanical Engineer will will lead or contribute to all aspects of spacecraft mechanical design, including spacecraft layout, structural and thermal sub-system design, mechanism design, payload and launch vehicle integration, through all stages of product lifecycle. The Sr. Mechanical Engineer will turn designs into reality via prototyping, development testing, and low-rate initial production.

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

  • Conduct and lead small teams in the mechanical engineering design and development of spacecraft and spacecraft sub-systems including flight hardware, mechanisms, and ground support equipment.
  • Model spacecraft and ground support equipment mechanical parts, cable harnesses, and assemblies in accordance with industry best practices.
  • Conduct vehicle and sub-system analysis using appropriate means including hand calculations, finite element analysis, and other relevant techniques to ensure design robustness early in the product lifecycle.
  • Create and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including drawings, Bills of Material, Interface Control Drawings, Compliance Verification Matrices, and Design Notebooks.
  • Generate and present technical content in support of internal and external design reviews.
  • In coordination with the Electrical Integration and Harness Manufacturing teams, develop spacecraft electrical cabling solutions, including connector selection, bundle design, routing, retention, and integration instructions.
  • Contribute mechanical engineering expertise to refine production workflows, assembly sequences, and testing protocols, ensuring efficient integration during the initial low-volume production phase.
  • Coordinate the execution of design and analysis activities of the mechanical, electrical integration, structural and thermal analysts to meet program milestones and schedule.
  • Collaborate with design engineers, manufacturing engineers, automation engineers and production personnel on implementing design for manufacturing and assembly best practices.
  • Review and approve engineering work of peers including design analysis, drawings, models, schematics, specifications, test plans, work instructions, and operating procedures.
  • Stay updated with advancements in technologies, materials, and manufacturing processes, and apply this knowledge to enhance the design and performance of space vehicles.
  • Contribute to Process Development and Continuous Improvement.

Required Qualifications and Skills 

  • B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience designing complex mechanical systems in space, aerospace, automotive, or a similar sector.
  • Robust capability with SolidWorks, Creo, or similar CAD software.
  • Proficient in the interpretation and application of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing in accordance with ASME Y14.5.
  • Hands-on experience with hardware manufacture, inspection, assembly, and/or testing from a relevant industry.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and coordinate with various engineering disciplines.
  • Experience conducting technical peer reviews and providing constructive feedback.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively within a team.
  • Experience interfacing with internal and external customers. 
  • Passion for space technology and a commitment to advancing the industry through innovative engineering solutions.
  • U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

  • M.S. in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
  • Demonstrated product ownership across the product lifecycle.
  • Experience in a production environment within the space/ aerospace industry.
  • Ability to support the technical growth of the engineering team through mentoring initiatives.