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Mid Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in California

Salas O'Brien

Mid-Level Mechanical Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

Mechanical Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This ... Provide a superior level of technical services to our clients for their projects and technical ...

GRVTY

Mid-Level Mechanical Engineer

Ventura, CA

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to support the ongoing development of our Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) family of vehicles and advanced ...

GRVTY

Mid-Level Mechanical Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to support the ongoing development of our Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) family of vehicles and advanced ...

GRVTY

Mid-Level Mechanical Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to support the ongoing development of our Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) family of vehicles and advanced ...

General Atomics

Engineer VII

San Diego, CA · On-site

The role also includes BOE development for DoD proposals, QN resolution, and mentoring mid-level and junior engineers. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: * Lead mechanical sustainment for fielded systems ...

General Atomics

Engineer VII

Encinitas, CA · On-site

The role also includes BOE development for DoD proposals, QN resolution, and mentoring mid-level and junior engineers. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: * Lead mechanical sustainment for fielded systems ...

General Atomics

Engineer VII

San Diego, CA · On-site

The role also includes BOE development for DoD proposals, QN resolution, and mentoring mid-level and junior engineers. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: * Lead mechanical sustainment for fielded systems ...

General Atomics

Engineer VII

Escondido, CA · On-site

The role also includes BOE development for DoD proposals, QN resolution, and mentoring mid-level and junior engineers. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: * Lead mechanical sustainment for fielded systems ...

General Atomics

Engineer VII

San Diego, CA · On-site

The role also includes BOE development for DoD proposals, QN resolution, and mentoring mid-level and junior engineers. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: * Lead mechanical sustainment for fielded systems ...

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All JobsMid Level Mechanical Engineer JobsMid Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in California

Mid Level Mechanical Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$101.5K

$164.3K

How much do mid level mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for mid level mechanical engineer 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 does a mid level mechanical engineer do?

A Mid Level Mechanical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and components. They typically work on projects involving machinery, engines, tools, or thermal devices, collaborating with other engineers and professionals to ensure products meet specifications and safety standards. At the mid level, these engineers may also oversee junior staff, manage parts of larger projects, and contribute innovative solutions to engineering problems. Their role bridges hands-on technical work and project management responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Mid Level Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical design, problem-solving, and engineering fundamentals, usually supported by a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and several years of relevant experience. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), finite element analysis tools, and project management systems is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork abilities help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and manage project challenges. These skills and qualities are vital for driving project success, ensuring quality engineering solutions, and advancing in your engineering career.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a mid level mechanical engineer expect to handle on a typical team?

As a mid-level mechanical engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of projects, often taking ownership of specific components or subsystems within larger engineering efforts. You'll collaborate closely with senior engineers, designers, and cross-functional teams such as manufacturing and quality assurance to ensure your designs are feasible and meet project requirements. Typical responsibilities include conducting design analyses, creating CAD models, preparing technical documentation, and supporting prototype builds or testing. This role often balances hands-on technical work with project coordination, making strong communication and problem-solving skills essential.

What is the difference between Mid Level Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Designer?

AspectMid Level Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, some certifications (e.g., EIT)Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field, certifications less common
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing, project managementDrafting, CAD modeling, detailed design work
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, HVACProduct design firms, manufacturing, engineering consultancies
Common Search & ComparisonMid Level Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Designer

The Mid Level Mechanical Engineer typically handles design, analysis, and project management, requiring a bachelor's degree and some certifications. Mechanical Designers focus more on drafting and CAD modeling, often with similar educational backgrounds but less emphasis on certifications. Both roles are common in manufacturing and engineering industries, but the engineer usually has broader responsibilities including testing and analysis, while designers concentrate on detailed design work.

What other jobs can I do as a mid level mechanical engineer?

Mid level mechanical engineers can transition into roles such as project engineers, design engineers, manufacturing engineers, or quality assurance engineers. They often utilize skills in CAD software, problem-solving, and project management, and may pursue certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) to advance into senior or specialized positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Mid Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in California?

For Mid Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mid Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Mid Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Mid Level Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mid Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Mid Level Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mid Level Mechanical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,531 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Mid-Level Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA • On-site

Salas O'Brien
Specialized Design Services • 201 - 500 employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

164th of 450 rated engineering

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Salas O'Brienexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Mechanical Engineer
At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That's why we're committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.
Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career-and they'll receive great total rewards along the way.
About Us:
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.
Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.
Job Summary:
The Mechanical Engineer will focus on engineering and delivery of mechanical system design for healthcare and other complex facilities. The role will entail managing engineering projects, directing designers & other disciplines, as well as personally performing engineering activities and engaging in project meetings.
Responsibilities:
  • Provide a superior level of technical services to our clients for their projects and technical support requirements, providing technical and project control direction, and mentoring other engineers and designers.
  • Provide engineering design, evaluation, and planning of mechanical systems for healthcare, life sciences, higher education, and data center market types.
  • Perform engineering calculations, system sizing, and assist with equipment selection.
  • Identify, formulate, and initiate solutions to complex problems requiring multiple-discipline involvement, along with discipline-specific analytical tools.
  • Perform work activities on an individual basis or within a project team with limited need for supervision.
  • Coordinate work activities that affect the quality of project control, scope development, proposals, engineering & design, document control, inspection & testing, and commissioning.
  • Identify and resolve routine problems that involve the use of conflicting or incomplete information.
  • Data gathering and site assessments at customers' facilities.
  • Review and editing of project specifications with minor assistance.
  • Proficient knowledge of California code requirements, including California Building Code (CBC) and HCAI-specific requirements.
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to support project delivery across design and construction phases.
  • Develop bidding documents for process equipment, fabrication, and construction.
  • Ability to review Revit production models and work interactively with support staff in development of project deliverables.
  • Support client interactions and participate in project meetings as needed.
  • Assist with QA/QC reviews to ensure accuracy, quality, and compliance with applicable codes and standards.

Skills:
  • Advanced expertise with Autodesk software (Revit, Navisworks).
  • Ability to perform HVAC load calculations utilizing Energy Soft and Trace energy modeling software.
  • Ability to comprehend, contribute to, and carry out strategies to manage our relationships with customers, suppliers, and alliance team members.
  • Experience at a design engineering firm required.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and take initiative to drive projects forward.

Team Contribution & Development:
  • Collaborate with senior engineers and project managers to deliver projects on schedule and within scope.
  • Support proposal development and technical input for projects as needed.
  • Participate in knowledge sharing and continuous improvement of design standards and best practices.
  • Contribute to a positive team environment through effective communication and collaboration.
  • Continue to build technical expertise in specialized mechanical systems.

Qualifications and Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • 5-10 years of experience engineering and managing mechanical systems projects from start to finish for the built environment.
  • Client engagement.
  • Registration as P.E. preferred.

Location:
  • San Diego, CA (on-site with remote Fridays).

Travel:
  • Up to 30%.

Compensation & Benefits:
Salas O'Brien health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Team members have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Salas O'Brien has both U.S. and Canadian (PTO) plans for full-time salaried, exempt and non-team members, 10 paid holidays, and paid leave programs for military service and new parents. And certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.
The base salary range for this position is $100,000 to $150,000. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O'Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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