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Senior Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Terran Orbital Corporation

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

The Sr. Mechanical Engineer will turn designs into reality via prototyping, development testing, and low-rate initial production. Key Duties and Responsibilities * Conduct and lead small teams in the ...

TRL11, Inc.

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$401K/yr

TRL11 is seeking a hands-on Senior Mechanical Engineer to own the mechanical development of space avionics and electro-optical imaging systems from initial requirements through production and product ...

TRL11, Inc.

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA

$401K/yr

TRL11 is seeking a hands-on Senior Mechanical Engineer to own the mechanical development of space avionics and electro-optical imaging systems from initial requirements through production and product ...

TRL11, Inc.

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$401K/yr

TRL11 is seeking a hands-on Senior Mechanical Engineer to own the mechanical development of space avionics and electro-optical imaging systems from initial requirements through production and product ...

AECOM

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Orange, CA · On-site

$111K - $147K/yr

AECOM is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer based in Orange, California. This is a Hybrid position. Join our dynamic team supporting exciting projects! Work independently and make technical ...

AECOM

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Orange, CA · On-site

$111K - $147K/yr

AECOM is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer based in Orange, California. This is a Hybrid position. Join our dynamic team supporting exciting projects! Work independently and make technical ...

AECOM

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Orange, CA · On-site

$111K - $147K/yr

AECOM is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer based in Orange, California. This is a Hybrid position. Join our dynamic team supporting exciting projects! Work independently and make technical ...

Turion Space

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA

$112K - $148K/yr

Description The Senior Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and components. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams ...

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Tustin, CA

$115K - $152K/yr

Senior 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.

Salas O'Brien

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

Senior 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.

jobr.pro

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$135 - $150/hr

About the Role As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will help develop and commercialize next-generation diagnostic systems by designing robust electromechanical solutions from concept through ...

New

Neon Aerospace

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

Neon Aero is looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and integration of complex mechanical and electromechanical systems for next-generation hardware. You'll work across high ...

Envista

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Pomona, CA · On-site

$121K - $148K/yr

The Sr. Mechanical Engineer will lead product sustainment efforts by implementing design improvements to enhance performance, reliability, and manufacturability. Provide technical support for ...

Fluxergy

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

About the Role As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will help develop and commercialize next-generation diagnostic systems by designing robust electromechanical solutions from concept through ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer JobsSenior Mechanical Engineer JobsSenior Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Senior Mechanical Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$77.7K

$127.9K

$178.4K

How much do senior mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior mechanical engineer in Riverside, CA is $127,867.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,000.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior mechanical engineer do?

A senior mechanical engineer manages the research and manufacturing of mechanical devices and systems. Day to day responsibilities of a senior mechanical engineer include estimating manufacturing project costs and timelines, making recommendations on system efficiencies and safety, and performing general engineering duties such as the development and testing of machines. A senior mechanical engineer job is a leadership position and requires managerial experience and excellent communication skills.

What does a senior mechanical engineer do?

A Senior Mechanical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing the production of mechanical systems and devices. They lead engineering projects, solve complex technical problems, and may supervise junior engineers and other team members. Their work often involves using advanced software tools for modeling and analysis, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and communicating with clients and stakeholders. Senior Mechanical Engineers typically have several years of experience and play a key role in project planning and execution.

What is the difference between Senior Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Designer?

AspectSenior Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredAssociate's or Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, project management, often in engineering firms or manufacturingDrafting, CAD modeling, product development, typically in design departments
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveProduct design companies, manufacturing, engineering consultancies

While both roles involve mechanical design, Senior Mechanical Engineers focus on project oversight, analysis, and technical leadership, whereas Mechanical Designers primarily handle CAD modeling and drafting tasks. The senior role requires more advanced credentials and experience, often with broader responsibilities in project management and engineering decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical design, engineering analysis, and project management, usually supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering and several years of industry experience. Proficiency with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), FEA tools, and familiarity with relevant industry standards and certifications (like PE licensure) are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you lead teams and collaborate effectively with cross-functional departments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering innovative, reliable engineering solutions and successfully managing complex projects.

How does a senior mechanical engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you’ll regularly work alongside professionals from disciplines such as electrical engineering, manufacturing, project management, and quality assurance. Effective collaboration involves participating in design reviews, aligning on technical requirements, and troubleshooting challenges that arise during development. You’ll often serve as a key technical liaison, ensuring that mechanical solutions integrate seamlessly with other systems and that project milestones are met on schedule. Strong communication and leadership skills are invaluable, as you’ll help guide both junior engineers and multidisciplinary teams toward shared goals.
More about Senior Mechanical Engineer jobs
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What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Senior Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Senior Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Senior Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Mechanical Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA 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 $127,867 per year, or $61.5 per hour.

Sr. Mechanical Engineer

Terran Orbital Corporation

Irvine, CA

$112K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Sr. Mechanical Engineer  to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Mechanical Engineering Manager, the Sr. Mechanical Engineer will will lead or contribute to all aspects of spacecraft mechanical design, including spacecraft layout, structural and thermal sub-system design, mechanism design, payload and launch vehicle integration, through all stages of product lifecycle. The Sr. Mechanical Engineer will turn designs into reality via prototyping, development testing, and low-rate initial production.

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

  • Conduct and lead small teams in the mechanical engineering design and development of spacecraft and spacecraft sub-systems including flight hardware, mechanisms, and ground support equipment.
  • Model spacecraft and ground support equipment mechanical parts, cable harnesses, and assemblies in accordance with industry best practices.
  • Conduct vehicle and sub-system analysis using appropriate means including hand calculations, finite element analysis, and other relevant techniques to ensure design robustness early in the product lifecycle.
  • Create and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including drawings, Bills of Material, Interface Control Drawings, Compliance Verification Matrices, and Design Notebooks.
  • Generate and present technical content in support of internal and external design reviews.
  • In coordination with the Electrical Integration and Harness Manufacturing teams, develop spacecraft electrical cabling solutions, including connector selection, bundle design, routing, retention, and integration instructions.
  • Contribute mechanical engineering expertise to refine production workflows, assembly sequences, and testing protocols, ensuring efficient integration during the initial low-volume production phase.
  • Coordinate the execution of design and analysis activities of the mechanical, electrical integration, structural and thermal analysts to meet program milestones and schedule.
  • Collaborate with design engineers, manufacturing engineers, automation engineers and production personnel on implementing design for manufacturing and assembly best practices.
  • Review and approve engineering work of peers including design analysis, drawings, models, schematics, specifications, test plans, work instructions, and operating procedures.
  • Stay updated with advancements in technologies, materials, and manufacturing processes, and apply this knowledge to enhance the design and performance of space vehicles.
  • Contribute to Process Development and Continuous Improvement.

Required Qualifications and Skills 

  • B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience designing complex mechanical systems in space, aerospace, automotive, or a similar sector.
  • Robust capability with SolidWorks, Creo, or similar CAD software.
  • Proficient in the interpretation and application of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing in accordance with ASME Y14.5.
  • Hands-on experience with hardware manufacture, inspection, assembly, and/or testing from a relevant industry.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and coordinate with various engineering disciplines.
  • Experience conducting technical peer reviews and providing constructive feedback.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively within a team.
  • Experience interfacing with internal and external customers. 
  • Passion for space technology and a commitment to advancing the industry through innovative engineering solutions.
  • U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

  • M.S. in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
  • Demonstrated product ownership across the product lifecycle.
  • Experience in a production environment within the space/ aerospace industry.
  • Ability to support the technical growth of the engineering team through mentoring initiatives.

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