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Project Engineer Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kinetic Personnel Group

Estimator

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Estimator Trainee – Aerospace Manufacturing Location: Corona, CA Schedule: Monday – ... Work closely with engineering, production, and purchasing teams to understand materials, labor ...

RBC Bearings

Drafter Trainee

CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Project Support: Provide assistance to engineers and drafting team members throughout the project lifecycle, including revisions and updates to drawings. * Continuous Learning: Participate in ...

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All JobsProject Engineer JobsProject Engineer Trainee JobsProject Engineer Trainee Jobs in California

Project Engineer Trainee information

See California salary details

$44.4K

$89.5K

$134.2K

How much do project engineer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for project engineer trainee in California is $89,457.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $102,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Project Engineer Trainee do?

A Project Engineer Trainee assists senior engineers and project managers in planning, coordinating, and executing engineering projects. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documents, performing site inspections, supporting project scheduling, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience and training in project management, engineering principles, and teamwork within various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure. The position is designed to help trainees develop practical skills and knowledge required for advancement to more senior engineering roles.

What is the difference between Project Engineer Trainee vs Project Engineer?

AspectProject Engineer TraineeProject Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a relevant degree; may have certifications like PMP or engineering licensesCompleted degree; often holds professional engineering license or certification
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, internships, or entry-level roles in construction or engineering projectsFull-time roles managing project phases, coordinating teams, and overseeing execution
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior engineers, learning project processes, supporting documentationPlanning, executing, and monitoring projects, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met

The main difference is that a Project Engineer Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting project tasks, while a Project Engineer is a fully responsible professional managing project execution independently.

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

To thrive as a Project Engineer Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, a relevant degree (such as in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering), and strong analytical skills. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and basic knowledge of industry standards is often required. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are vital soft skills for success in this entry-level role. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting project delivery, ensuring technical accuracy, and building a strong foundation for a future engineering career.

What are some typical day-to-day responsibilities for a Project Engineer Trainee, and how do they contribute to project success?

As a Project Engineer Trainee, your daily tasks often include assisting with project planning, coordinating with contractors or vendors, preparing documentation, and tracking project progress against timelines. You'll likely attend team meetings, help resolve technical issues, and support senior engineers with data collection and report generation. These activities provide hands-on experience with the project lifecycle while ensuring that deliverables stay on schedule and meet quality standards. Your contributions help the team identify bottlenecks early and maintain effective communication among stakeholders.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in California are:
Project Engineer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Project Engineer Trainee job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,457 per year, or $43 per hour.
Estimator

Estimator

Kinetic Personnel Group

Corona, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Estimator Trainee – Aerospace Manufacturing Location: Corona, CA Schedule: Monday – Friday | 1st Shift Pay: $20.00 – $24.00 per hour (DOE) Job Type: Temp-to-Hire About the Role We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Estimator Trainee to join our team at a leading aerospace manufacturing company. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for someone looking to build a career in aerospace estimating. You'll receive hands-on training while working alongside experienced professionals to learn quoting, pricing, and cost analysis for precision aerospace components. Key Responsibilities Assist in reviewing customer drawings, blueprints, specifications, and technical documents to prepare accurate cost estimates. Work closely with engineering, production, and purchasing teams to understand materials, labor requirements, machining processes, and production costs. Enter estimating data into company software and prepare pricing proposals and quotations. Communicate with suppliers to obtain material pricing, availability, and lead times. Maintain organized records of estimates, customer requests, and project documentation. Learn and apply AS9100 aerospace quality standards and company estimating procedures. Support continuous improvement efforts and assist with additional estimating tasks as assigned. Qualifications High School Diploma or equivalent required. College coursework in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or a related field is a plus. Exposure to blueprint reading and basic manufacturing processes preferred. Strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Outlook, and Word. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Highly organized with strong attention to detail. Self-motivated, eager to learn, and able to follow detailed instructions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. KPG123

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