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Precision Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vantedge

Quality Engineering Supervisor

San Jose, CA · On-site

We are at the forefront of precision engineering and innovation, specializing in the development and manufacturing of vital components for medical markets such as Robotic Assisted Surgery ...

Pacific Fusion

Senior Mechanical Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$118K - $156K/yr

This role sits at the intersection of precision engineering and first-of-kind technology, demanding both deep technical expertise and the creative problem-solving mindset needed to tackle challenges ...

Vantedge Medical

Spot Welder II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

We are at the forefront of precision engineering and innovation, specializing in the development and manufacturing of vital components for medical markets such as Robotic Assisted Surgery ...

Apple

Mechanical Systems Design Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

If you're a creative problem-solver who thrives at the intersection of complex physics, precision engineering, and real-world manufacturing, we want to hear from you. Description The Instrumentation ...

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Precision Engineering information

See California salary details

$12

$31

$56

How much do precision engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for precision engineering in California is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is precision engineering?

Precision engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on designing, manufacturing, and measuring components and systems with extremely tight tolerances and high accuracy. This discipline is crucial in industries where even the smallest deviation can affect performance, such as aerospace, electronics, and medical device manufacturing. Precision engineers use advanced technologies and processes to ensure that parts and assemblies meet exacting standards, often at the micron or nanometer scale.

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

To thrive as a Precision Engineer, you need expertise in mechanical design, materials science, and high-accuracy manufacturing, usually supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, CNC machinery, and industry standards like ISO 9001 is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure the creation of ultra-precise components, reduce errors, and support innovation in industries where tolerances are critical.

What are some common challenges faced by precision engineers when working on complex projects?

Precision engineers frequently encounter challenges related to maintaining extremely tight tolerances, especially when working with intricate components or advanced materials. Ensuring quality and consistency across all stages of the manufacturing process requires close collaboration with design, production, and quality assurance teams. Additionally, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and integrating new machinery or software can be demanding but also presents opportunities for professional growth. Problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential to overcome these hurdles and deliver high-quality results.

What is the difference between Precision Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectPrecision EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering or related field, often with specialization in precision manufacturing or metrologyRequires a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering, with broader focus on design, thermodynamics, and mechanics
Work EnvironmentSpecialized manufacturing facilities, laboratories, or research environments focused on high-precision componentsVaried settings including factories, design offices, and research labs for diverse mechanical systems
Industry UsageUsed mainly in industries like aerospace, medical devices, and high-precision manufacturingWidely used across automotive, aerospace, robotics, and general manufacturing sectors

While both Precision Engineering and Mechanical Engineering require a strong engineering background, Precision Engineering focuses on creating and maintaining extremely accurate components and systems, often in specialized environments. Mechanical Engineering covers a broader range of mechanical systems and design, making it more versatile across industries.

Is precision engineering a good career?

Precision engineering is a specialized field focused on designing and manufacturing high-accuracy components, often requiring skills in CAD software, measurement tools, and quality control. It offers opportunities in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical devices, with a demand for technical expertise and certifications. The career can be stable and rewarding for those interested in detailed work and advanced manufacturing processes.

What does a precision engineer do?

A precision engineer designs, develops, and maintains highly accurate mechanical components and systems, often working with advanced manufacturing tools like CNC machines and coordinate measuring machines. They focus on achieving tight tolerances and high-quality standards in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing.

What are popular job titles related to Precision Engineering jobs in California?

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

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

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

Precision Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Precision Engineering job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,765 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Precision Clean-Line Engineering Lead

Redondo Beach, CA

Impulse Space
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Impulse Spaceexternal

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

The Process and Precision Cleaning Engineering Lead at Impulse will build, establish, and lead a scalable cleaning operation to support the company's growing manufacturing needs. This role will be responsible for the development of precision cleaning processes, FOD mitigation, standards, equipment, staffing, training, and department infrastructure while driving safety, quality, throughput, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will bring leadership and technical expertise to create a high-performing cleaning organization from the ground up, establish robust and repeatable processes, and scale the department alongside increasing production demand.
  • Build and lead the Precision Cleaning team
  • Establish standardized cleaning processes, work instructions, and SOPs
  • Generate high-quality technical documentation such as engineering test plans, work instructions, equipment specifications, and qualification reports.
  • Work directly with precision cleaning technicians and engineers to create and maintain training programs, competency matrices, and certification requirements.
  • Identify and implement precision cleaning equipment, tooling, chemicals, fixtures, and infrastructure needed to scale the department
  • Collaborate with internal customers (Manufacturing, Quality, & Design) to ensure hardware is processed per design intent.
  • Drive continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives within the precision cleaning operation
  • Collaborate with EHS to ensure and adhere to job safety principles
  • Create a long-term roadmap for the Precision Cleaning Department, including personnel, equipment, facility, and process capability
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, science or related field
  • 5+ years of demonstrated experience in precision cleaning, contamination control, or related manufacturing processes, preferably within aerospace, space, defense, semiconductor, or other high-reliability industries
  • Hands-on experience developing, implementing, and maintaining precision cleaning processes for aerospace materials, components, and hardware

  • Ability to manage people, multiple projects, and priorities simultaneously 
  • Strong understanding of chemical cleaning, material compatibility, reaction mechanisms, and precision cleaning science.
  • Experience with cleaning validation processes (Particle Count and NVR).
  • Strong background in contamination control principles, including particulate control, molecular contamination, and FOD prevention.
  • Experience with automated or semiautomated precision cleaning processes for aerospace hardware (direct or indirect).
  • Experience with manual precision cleaning processes for aerospace hardware.
  • Strong understanding of GMP and regulatory requirements
  • Data analysis and problem-solving skills
  • Technical writing and documentation expertise
  • Strong cross-functional collaboration skills

Additional Information:
Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Impulse Space's spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here.  
Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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