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Trainee Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Trainee Engineer information

What is a trainee engineer?

Trainee engineers are entry-level professionals who have recently completed their engineering education and are undergoing practical training within an organization. Their role is to gain hands-on experience, develop technical skills, and learn about the company's processes under the guidance of senior engineers. Trainee engineers may rotate through different departments to understand various aspects of engineering work and to identify their areas of interest. The goal is to prepare them for full-time engineering positions by building a strong foundation in both technical and soft skills.

What do trainee engineers do?

As a Trainee Engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of entry-level engineering projects under the guidance of experienced team members. Typical responsibilities include assisting with technical documentation, conducting research, performing basic calculations or tests, and supporting ongoing design or implementation tasks. You'll often collaborate closely with engineers from different disciplines, attend regular team meetings, and participate in training sessions to build your technical and soft skills. This hands-on experience is designed to help you understand company processes and prepare you for more complex assignments as you progress.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, analytical skills, and a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and an openness to learning new technologies is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure you can effectively contribute to projects, adapt to evolving technical requirements, and integrate smoothly into engineering teams.

What is the difference between Trainee Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectTrainee EngineerJunior Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant degree or diplomaCompleted degree or diploma, with some work experience
Work EnvironmentTraining period, supervised tasks, learning-focusedIndependent task execution, project involvement
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior staff, learning proceduresPerforming assigned technical tasks, supporting projects
Career StageEntry-level, training phaseEarly career, gaining experience

In summary, a Trainee Engineer is in the learning and training phase, focusing on skill development under supervision, while a Junior Engineer has completed their education and is actively working on technical tasks with more independence, marking the beginning of their professional career.

How much does a trainee engineer make?

A trainee engineer's salary typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and level of education. Entry-level positions often include on-the-job training and may offer additional benefits such as certifications or skill development opportunities.

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

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Trainee Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Trainee Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Machinist Trainee

Applied Medical

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support prototype and development activities by learning and applying machining fundamentals.

  • Follow safety rules, manufacturing instructions, and work guidelines at all times.

  • Assist with machining, inspection, and shop activities under supervision to build technical proficiency.


Applied Medical rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field.  Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.


Position Description

Position Overview
The Machinist Trainee supports Applied Medical’s Pilot Metals Development team by developing foundational machining skills in a structured, hands-on manufacturing environment. This entry level role contributes to future manufacturing capability by learning machining processes, safety requirements, and quality standards under the guidance of experienced machinists and engineering teams. The machinist trainee supports prototype and development activities while building technical proficiency across machining, inspection, and documentation processes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Learn and apply machining fundamentals while supporting prototype and development activities within the Pilot Metals Development team.
  • Follow safety rules, manufacturing instructions, work rules, and manufacturing guidelines at all times.
  • Review routing sheets and supporting documentation to understand machining requirements and workflow expectations.
  • Communicate effectively with machine shop, programming, and inspection teams to support project timelines and coordination.
  • Assist with machining, inspection, and shop activities under supervision to build technical proficiency.
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned to support manufacturing operations.

Success in This Role Looks Like

  • Demonstrating steady progression in machining skills, safety awareness, and technical understanding.
  • Following instructions accurately and consistently in a regulated manufacturing environment.
  • Building effective working relationships with machinists, programmers, and inspectors.
  • Supporting prototype and development projects by completing assigned tasks on schedule.
  • Exhibiting reliability, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Position Requirements

This position requires the following skills and attributes:

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in machining or manufacturing trades.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak in English for effective communication and documentation.
  • Technical, hands-on approach to learning and solving basic manufacturing challenges.
  • Completion of a machinist trade school program or community college machinist certification.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Ability to lift fifty pounds as required for materials and tooling.
 

Preferred

The following skills and attributes are preferred:

  • Exposure to machine shop environments through coursework, internships, or prior employment.
  • Basic familiarity with machining terminology, measuring tools, or manufacturing processes.

Benefits

Benefits

  • Competitive compensation range: $18 - $20 / hour (California). 
  • Comprehensive benefits package. 
  • Training and mentorship opportunities. 
  • On-campus wellness activities. 
  • Education reimbursement program. 
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match. 
  • Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule. 

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply. 

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life. 

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements. 

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

Qualifications:

This position requires the following skills and attributes:

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in machining or manufacturing trades.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak in English for effective communication and documentation.
  • Technical, hands-on approach to learning and solving basic manufacturing challenges.
  • Completion of a machinist trade school program or community college machinist certification.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Ability to lift fifty pounds as required for materials and tooling.
 
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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