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Mechanical Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Abbott

Manager, Mechanical Engineering

Alameda, CA

$117K - $162K/yr

Responsible for resolving complex mechanical engineering challenges and setting the technical direction for mechanical design, advanced materials, manufacturing processes, and product development ...

Abbott

Manager, Mechanical Engineering

Alameda, CA · On-site

$117K - $162K/yr

Responsible for resolving complex mechanical engineering challenges and setting the technical direction for mechanical design, advanced materials, manufacturing processes, and product development ...

Abbott

Manager, Mechanical Engineering

Alameda, CA

$117K - $162K/yr

Responsible for resolving complex mechanical engineering challenges and setting the technical direction for mechanical design, advanced materials, manufacturing processes, and product development ...

Amca

Mechanical Engineering Manager

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

You will lead Amca's mechanical engineering function across design, build, and test. Your team takes flight hardware from concept through qualification and into production - spanning flow control ...

Cohu Inc.

Mechanical Engineering Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Ensure mechanical engineering projects and tasks are done to company standards, delivered on time and to the schedule with completed documentation. Review designs to ensure quality, cost and ...

Socket.dev

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140 - $200/hr

The Mechanical Engineering Manager maintains a high-performing engineering team through manpower management, team development, recruiting, and hiring while proactively collaborating with functional ...

Cohu

Mechanical Engineering Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$106K - $147K/yr

Ensure mechanical engineering projects and tasks are done to company standards, delivered on time and to the schedule with completed documentation. Review designs to ensure quality, cost and ...

Cohu

Mechanical Engineering Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$106K - $147K/yr

Ensure mechanical engineering projects and tasks are done to company standards, delivered on time and to the schedule with completed documentation. Review designs to ensure quality, cost and ...

Legence

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Lafayette, CA · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

CMTA is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead and grow our Mechanical Department in our Lafayette, CA office. This is a high visibility leadership role for someone who is passionate about ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineering JobsMechanical Engineering Jobs in California

Mechanical Engineering information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$101.5K

$164.3K

How much do mechanical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering 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 are some common challenges faced by mechanical engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Mechanical engineers often collaborate with professionals from electrical, software, and civil engineering backgrounds, which can present challenges in aligning project goals, communication styles, and technical languages. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong teamwork, adaptability, and a willingness to learn about related fields. Mechanical engineers may need to bridge knowledge gaps, coordinate schedules, and ensure that their designs integrate seamlessly with those from other disciplines. Proactive communication and regular team meetings are key strategies for overcoming these hurdles and ensuring project success.

What is mechanical engineering?

Mechanical engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. It involves principles of physics and materials science to create everything from small individual parts and devices to large systems like engines, machines, and HVAC systems. Mechanical engineers work in a variety of industries, including automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing, developing solutions that improve efficiency, safety, and reliability.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectMechanical EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, PE license (optional)Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, design labs, R&D facilitiesConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, urban planning
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturingBuildings, bridges, roads, water systems

Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering share foundational engineering principles but differ in focus and work environments. Mechanical engineers often work in manufacturing and product design, while civil engineers focus on infrastructure and construction projects. Both fields require similar credentials but serve distinct industries and project types.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards or certifications like FE/EIT are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure innovative, safe, and efficient design and implementation of mechanical systems across diverse industries.

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 jobs in California?

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Mechanical Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mechanical Engineering job openings:

Mechanical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering 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.

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Zone 5 Technologies

San Luis Obispo, CA

$112K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Zone 5 Technologies is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead out team of engineers in the design, analysis, and development of air vehicle mechanical hardware. The successful candidate will oversee a mechanical engineering team, manage projects, promote design quality standards, and drive innovation in mechanical design and analysis. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and effective communication to deliver high-quality solutions in support of Zone 5's growing UAS development needs. This position will work on-site in San Luis Obispo, CA at our Headquarters. 

Position Summary 

As a Mechanical Engineering Manager, you will lead a team of engineers in designing, analyzing, and developing UAS mechanical solutions, ensuring compliance with industry standards and project requirements. You will also be a working manager, contributing at the individual mechanical engineering level as well as in a management capacity. This role involves overseeing project execution, mentoring team members, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, high-quality mechanical solutions. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in mechanical engineering, strong leadership skills, and proficiency in tools like ANSYS and SolidWorks (preferred), with a focus on driving technical excellence and project success. 

Responsibilities:

  • Manage and grow a team of engineers, fostering collaboration and innovation. 
  • Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of projects. 
  • Guide the team in designing, analyzing, and testing mechanical solutions. 
  • Review designs and analyses to ensure integrity and performance. 
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to integrate mechanical designs into systems. 
  • Drive innovative approaches to advance design methodologies and solutions. 
  • Drive the development of processes, procedures and standards. 
  • Ensure quality of mechanical design and documentation.
  • Liaise with stakeholders to communicate technical requirements and progress. 

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field 
  • 7+ years of experience as a mechanical or structural engineer, including 2+ in a leadership or supervisory role 
  • Proficiency in CAD systems, including 3D modeling and drawing generation 
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA) 
  • Design for Manufacturing (DFM) 
  • Proficiency in mechanical analysis methods and tools 
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field 
  • Experience with Group 1-4 UAS systems engineering 
  • Direct experience and proficiency in mentoring and training junior engineers
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks 

Apply