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Mechanical Engineering Trainee Jobs in California

Vitro Flat Glass

Lead-INDUSTRIAL MECHANIC

Fresno, CA

$36.48/hr

... performing advanced mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic maintenance while also ... and maintenance trainees. The Lead collaborates closely with operations, engineering, and ...

Shawmut

CMST Program

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$81K/yr

At the end of this intense on-the-job program, trainees graduate and continue their careers ... Engineering, Building Construction, Mechanical Engineering, etc. *There are no specific major ...

Senra Systems

Harness Training Supervisor

Cypress, CA · On-site

... engineering drawings, quality standards, and customer requirements. * Design structured learning ... Evaluate program effectiveness using trainee performance data, first-pass yield, and production ...

Senra Systems

Harness Training Supervisor

Cypress, CA

... engineering drawings, quality standards, and customer requirements. * Design structured learning ... Evaluate program effectiveness using trainee performance data, first-pass yield, and production ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMechanical Engineering JobsMechanical Engineering Trainee JobsMechanical Engineering Trainee Jobs in California

Mechanical Engineering Trainee information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$101.5K

$164.3K

How much do mechanical engineering trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering trainee 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 trainee?

Mechanical Engineering Trainees are entry-level professionals or recent graduates who work under the supervision of experienced engineers to learn practical skills and gain hands-on experience in the field of mechanical engineering. Their responsibilities may include assisting with design, analysis, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems or products. The trainee period helps them understand industry standards, tools, and workflows, preparing them for more advanced engineering roles in the future.

What types of projects and tasks can a mechanical engineering trainee expect to work on during their first year?

As a Mechanical Engineering Trainee, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and design-oriented projects under the guidance of experienced engineers. Typical tasks include assisting with CAD modeling, performing basic calculations, supporting prototype development, and helping with testing and data collection. You may also participate in team meetings, collaborate with other departments like manufacturing or quality assurance, and contribute to process improvement initiatives. These experiences are designed to build your technical skills and provide exposure to the full product development lifecycle.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineering Trainee, a solid grasp of engineering fundamentals, mathematics, and problem-solving abilities is essential, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (like SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help trainees effectively collaborate and learn from experienced engineers. These skills are crucial for successfully contributing to projects, addressing technical challenges, and developing into a competent mechanical engineer.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Trainee vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering TraineeMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in mechanical engineeringBachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level position, often in manufacturing or design firmsDesign departments, engineering firms, or manufacturing companies
Job FocusLearning, assisting, and gaining practical experience in mechanical systemsCreating, analyzing, and improving mechanical designs and components

The main difference is that a Mechanical Engineering Trainee is an entry-level role focused on learning and gaining experience, while a Mechanical Design Engineer is a specialized professional responsible for designing mechanical systems. Trainees often work under supervision, whereas Design Engineers handle complex projects independently.

How do I get my first job as a mechanical engineering trainee?

To secure your first mechanical engineering trainee position, build a strong foundation with a relevant degree or diploma, gain practical experience through internships or projects, and develop skills in CAD software and basic engineering principles. Networking with industry professionals and applying through company career portals or job boards can also improve your chances.

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 are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in California?

For Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mechanical Engineering Trainee job openings:

Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Trainee 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 $101,531 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Lead-INDUSTRIAL MECHANIC

Vitro Architectural Glass

Fresno, CA • On-site

$36.48/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

PAY RANGE (California-Compliant)
Pay: This position pays $36.48 per hour, which is the established base hourly rate for the Industrial Mechanic Lead classification.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Industrial Mechanic Lead is a highly skilled maintenance professional responsible for performing advanced mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic maintenance while also providing daily leadership and coordination for the maintenance crew on their assigned shift.
This role ensures safe and reliable plant operation in a continuous 24/7 glass manufacturing environment and serves as the working lead for Industrial Mechanics and maintenance trainees.
The Lead collaborates closely with operations, engineering, and maintenance leadership to minimize downtime, maintain equipment integrity, and support production needs through effective troubleshooting, work coordination, and adherence to safety and quality standards.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Technical & Maintenance Responsibilities
  • Perform skilled diagnostic, repair, installation, and fabrication work on mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems.
  • Troubleshoot equipment failures and implement corrective actions, including during emergency breakdowns.
  • Conduct bench repair, welding, cutting, brazing, and machining (lathe, mill, etc.).
  • Interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, SOPs, and work orders.
  • Perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance across furnaces, batch operations, compressors, pumps, conveyors, automation systems, and high-energy equipment.
  • Use SPF or other maintenance systems for data entry, history, and closure of work orders.
  • Safely operate forklifts, boom lifts, scissor lifts, and personnel carriers.
  • Support power distribution systems, cooling systems, compressed air systems, gas/oil firing systems, and automated packers/line drives.
  • Ensure proper use of PPE and full compliance with safety procedures including Lockout/Tagout, confined space, respiratory protection, elevated work protocols, and electrical PPE.

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Serve as the working lead for Industrial Mechanics and maintenance trainees.
  • Assign and coordinate daily maintenance tasks.
  • Provide hands-on direction during troubleshooting and repairs.
  • Train and mentor maintenance personnel.
  • Maintain documentation, logs, and shift-handoff notes.
  • Coordinate with operations and other departments to prioritize work.
  • Track inventory and required materials.
  • Enforce safety, quality, and housekeeping standards.
  • Communicate equipment status and priorities across shifts.
  • Support reliability and improvement initiatives.

TRAINING & TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT
The Lead must maintain proficiency in:
  • Production line maintenance
  • Hydraulics & pneumatics
  • Industrial wiring, controls, and PLC-supported systems
  • Power distribution
  • Pumps, compressors, and mechanical drive systems
  • Welding/fabrication
  • Cooling towers, water systems, and fire systems
  • Furnace/tank systems and runout/BER drives
  • Automated packers, cutters, and glass-handling equipment
  • LOTO, electrical PPE, confined space
  • Computer-based maintenance systems

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • High heat areas (up to 3000°F)
  • Noise, dust, fumes, chemicals
  • Elevated work areas, ladders, confined spaces
  • Exposure to mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems
  • Indoor/outdoor industrial setting
  • Frequent walking, climbing, and lifting up to 75 lbs

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Walk 2-4 miles per shift
  • Frequent bending, climbing, lifting
  • Ability to navigate elevated or restricted spaces
  • Manual dexterity for precision work
  • Work safely in high-noise environments
  • Adequate vision for mechanical and electrical tasks

QUALIFICATIONS
Required
  • 3+ years Industrial Mechanic or Maintenance Technician experience
  • Expertise in mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical troubleshooting
  • Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and diagrams
  • Welding/fabrication and machining experience
  • Strong communication and leadership skills
  • Ability to work any shift in a 24/7 environment
  • Pass the internal maintenance and electrical exam.

Preferred
  • Previous lead experience
  • Experience in glass or continuous-process manufacturing
  • PLC exposure (Modicon, Allen-Bradley)
  • Experience training or mentoring staff

ABOUT VITRO
Vitro Flat Glass offers competitive wages, full medical/dental/vision benefits, Savings Plan participation, paid vacation, paid holidays, and opportunities for advancement in a large-scale industrial manufacturing environment.
UNION & EMPLOYMENT STATEMENT
This position is part of a USW Local 474 bargaining unit. All working conditions, wages, hours, and job bidding processes are governed by the CBA.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Vitro Flat Glass, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
DISCLAIMER
This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of duties or requirements. The company may modify tasks in accordance with operational needs and consistent with the CBA.

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