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Product Development Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Elco Lighting

Be Seen First

Product Development Engineer

Vernon, CA · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

As a Product Development Engineer at Elco Lighting, you will play a pivotal role in the entire product lifecycle, from concept generation to final production. You will collaborate with cross ...

Abbott

Product Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

The Opportunity As a Product Development Engineer, you will be part of the Abbott R&D team supporting the development and verification of innovative medical device systems. This role will play a key ...

Abbott

Product Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

The Opportunity As a Product Development Engineer, you will be part of the Abbott R&D team supporting the development and verification of innovative medical device systems. This role will play a key ...

Nvidia

Product Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

We are seeking Product Development Engineers who are experienced, creative problem solvers in various areas and passionate to want to make a visible impact with the work they do. As part of the ...

KLA

Product Development Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

The division consists of a global team located in US, Israel, China, and India. /Preferred Qualifications The Product Development Engineer plays a central role throughout the different phases of the ...

Raytheon

Product Development Engineer

San Diego, CA

As a Product Development Engineer (PDE), you will serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) in manufacturability for several programs, with a specific focus on the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) and ...

New

Orbotech

Product Development Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

The division consists of a global team located in US, Israel, China, and India. /Preferred Qualifications The Product Development Engineer plays a central role throughout the different phases of the ...

Kla

Product Development Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

The division consists of a global team located in US, Israel, China, and India. /Preferred Qualifications The Product Development Engineer plays a central role throughout the different phases of the ...

Raytheon

Product Development Engineer

San Jose, CA

As a Product Development Engineer (PDE), you will serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) in manufacturability for several programs, with a specific focus on the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) and ...

New

KLA Corporation

Product Development Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$117K - $200K/yr

Conduct proper hand-off from proof of concept to the Engineering/Product Development Teams for product implementation. Minimum Qualifications Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work ...

Abbott

Product Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

The Opportunity As a Product Development Engineer, you will be part of the Abbott R&D team supporting the development and verification of innovative medical device systems. This role will play a key ...

Nvidia

Product Development Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

We are seeking Product Development Engineers who are experienced, creative problem solvers in various areas and passionate to want to make a visible impact with the work they do. As part of the ...

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All JobsProduct Development Engineer JobsProduct Development Engineer Jobs in California

Product Development Engineer information

See California salary details

$39K

$86.7K

$130.8K

How much do product development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for product development engineer in California is $86,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Product Development Engineer do?

A Product Development Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new products or improving existing ones. They work closely with cross-functional teams such as design, manufacturing, and marketing to bring innovative products from concept to production. Their tasks often include prototyping, conducting feasibility studies, addressing technical challenges, and ensuring that products meet quality and safety standards. Product Development Engineers play a crucial role in transforming ideas into market-ready products that fulfill customer needs.

What Is a Product Development Engineer?

A product development engineer designs manufactured goods by integrating market research to deliver products that will meet company goals. As a product development engineer, you will be working on all stages of the production process, from research and development to prototype testing and quality assurance. You may work in any number of fields, from the automotive industry or medical device manufacturing to developing new soaps or food products. Typically, you work as part of a team, sometimes leading a group of engineers through the design and production process. Your duties include creating drafts and blueprints, assessing proper materials, setting goals, and researching competitive products.

How does a Product Development Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product lifecycle?

Product Development Engineers work closely with teams such as design, manufacturing, marketing, and quality assurance throughout the product lifecycle. They often facilitate communication to ensure that product specifications align with customer needs and production capabilities. Regular meetings and collaborative problem-solving sessions are common, as these engineers help translate technical requirements into actionable plans. This collaborative approach not only streamlines development but also fosters innovation and ensures the final product meets both technical and market expectations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Product Development Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, product design, and project management, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Proficiency with CAD software, prototyping tools, and familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across teams and innovate solutions. These skills and qualities are essential for efficiently developing market-ready products that meet user needs and business objectives.

What is the difference between Product Development Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectProduct Development EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Industrial, or related engineering; often some experience in product designBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; licensure optional for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing settings, cross-functional teamsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, research labs
Industry UsageProduct design, consumer electronics, automotive, aerospaceMechanical systems, HVAC, manufacturing equipment, automotive

Product Development Engineers focus on designing and developing new products, often working closely with cross-functional teams to bring concepts to market. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on mechanical systems and components across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, Product Development Engineers typically emphasize product design and innovation, whereas Mechanical Engineers may work on a wider range of mechanical systems.

More about Product Development Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Product Development Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Product Development Engineer jobs in California? For Product Development Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Product Development Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Product Development Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Product Development Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Product Development Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Product Development Engineer jobs in CA? For Product Development Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Product Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Product Development Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,733 per year, or $41.7 per hour.
Product Development Engineer

Product Development Engineer

Elco Lighting

Vernon, CA • On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

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Job description

Job description:

As a Product Development Engineer at Elco Lighting, you will play a pivotal role in the entire product lifecycle, from concept generation to final production. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, develop, and test innovative lighting solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers work.

  • Responsibilities:*
  • Lighting Design & Development:*
  • Conceptualize, design, and develop innovative lighting products, including LED fixtures, controls, and systems
  • Apply knowledge of photometry, optics, and thermal management to optimize lighting performance.
  • Engineering & Prototyping:*
  • Create detailed 3D models and technical drawings using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD).
  • Build and test prototypes to validate designs, ensuring functionality, durability, and safety.
  • Conduct thorough performance testing, including photometric measurements, thermal analysis, and electrical testing.
  • Oversee UL, ETL, and other product safety testing and certifications.
  • Analyze test results and implement design modifications to improve product performance.
  • Product Lifecycle Management:*
  • Manage the product development process from concept to launch, adhering to project timelines and budgets.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless production and product quality.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of designs, test results, and specifications.
  • Ensure products meet all relevant regulatory requirements such as UL, CE, and DLC.
  • Qualifications:*
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Proven experience in product development, preferably in the lighting industry.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).
  • Strong understanding of electrical and mechanical engineering principles.
  • Experience with prototyping and testing methodologies.
  • Knowledge of lighting industry standards and regulations is a plus.
  • Pay Range: *$30 - $45 per hour
  • Benefits*: Health insurance, 401K, dental, and other benefits

Join Elco Lighting and illuminate the future!

Job Type: Full-time


Company Description

The Leading Choice - Both customers and competitors alike see ELCO as a leader in luminaire manufacturing.