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Trainee Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Corona, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Overview SwiftX is seeking highly motivated and ambitious Management Trainees to join our ... Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business, Economics, Operations Management, or ...

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Corona, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Overview SwiftX is seeking highly motivated and ambitious Management Trainees to join our ... Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business, Economics, Operations Management, or ...

SwiftX Inc.

Management Trainee

Corona, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Overview SwiftX is seeking highly motivated and ambitious Management Trainees to join our ... Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business, Economics, Operations Management, or ...

Zeeve Inc

Blockchain Trainee

Irvine, CA · On-site

We are looking for a motivated Blockchain Trainee to join our team and learn hands‑on development ... Work with senior engineers to understand blockchain architectures (Ethereum, Polygon, Hyperledger ...

California Temp Services, Inc

$20/hr

CNC Machinist Trainee - Mill & Lathe Location: San Fernando Valley, CA Pay Rate: $20.00/hour Job ... basic programming as trained. * Monitor machines during production to ensure proper operation.

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All JobsEngineering JobsTrainee Engineering JobsTrainee Engineering Jobs in California

Trainee Engineering information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do trainee engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee engineering in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee engineer?

Trainee Engineers are entry-level professionals who have recently graduated in engineering or a related field and are undergoing practical training within an organization. Their primary role is to learn about engineering processes, tools, and company protocols while working under the supervision of experienced engineers. This period helps them build technical skills, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for more advanced engineering roles within the company. Trainee Engineers often participate in projects, assist with research and development, and may rotate between different departments to broaden their understanding. The training typically lasts from several months to a couple of years, depending on the organization's structure and the complexity of the field.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Engineer, you generally need a relevant engineering degree or diploma, strong analytical abilities, and a foundational understanding of engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-specific software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, and an eagerness to learn on-the-job tools and safety protocols are typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to new challenges. These competencies are crucial for building technical expertise, ensuring safety, and progressing successfully in an engineering career.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee engineers during their initial months, and how can they overcome them?

Trainee Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new technologies, understanding complex project requirements, and managing time effectively while balancing training with real-world assignments. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking guidance from mentors, actively participating in team meetings, and regularly reviewing technical materials can help accelerate learning. Building good communication with colleagues and asking questions when unsure are also crucial steps in overcoming these early hurdles and establishing a strong foundation for future growth.

What is the difference between Trainee Engineering vs Junior Engineering?

AspectTrainee EngineeringJunior Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed relevant educationCompleted degree or diploma in engineering
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasksIndependent project work, ongoing responsibilities
Employer UsageEntry-level training positions in engineering firmsEntry-level engineering roles with some responsibilities
Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level career pathsCompared as a step after trainee roles

In summary, Trainee Engineering positions are designed for individuals gaining initial industry experience, often during or immediately after education. Junior Engineering roles typically require some completed education and involve more independent work, serving as a stepping stone in an engineering career.

How can I get into trainee engineering with no experience?

Trainee engineering roles often require minimal experience and focus on training and development. Candidates typically need a relevant educational background such as a diploma or degree in engineering or a related field, and some roles may require basic technical skills or familiarity with tools like CAD or testing equipment. Applying to entry-level positions, internships, or apprenticeship programs can provide practical experience and a pathway into the field.

How much does a trainee engineer make?

A trainee engineer's salary typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 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 and skill development opportunities.

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

The most popular types of Engineering jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Trainee Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Trainee Engineering job openings:

Trainee Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Sales Engineer Trainee - Southern/Central California Territory

RBC Transport Dynamics

Bellflower, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

RBC Bearings Incorporated (NYSE: RBC) is a leading international manufacturer of highly engineered precision bearings and components for the industrial, defense and aerospace industries.  Founded in 1919, the Company is primarily focused on producing highly technical and/or regulated bearing products and engineered components requiring sophisticated design, testing and manufacturing capabilities for the diversified industrial, aerospace and defense markets.  We currently have 64 facilities, of which 42 are manufacturing facilities in eleven countries and our market capitalization is approximately $18.0 billion.

JOB TITLE/LOCATION:

Sales Engineer Trainee - Southern/Central California Territory

 

DESCRIPTION:

We are currently recruiting for a dynamic Sales Engineering Trainee with a tremendous amount of energy, passion and motivation.  In this position, RBC Bearings would provide you with an extensive, in-depth 6-month training program focusing on bearing products, applications, selling methods, and effective communication techniques to meet our customer needs. Our training program is located at our corporate headquarters in Oxford, Connecticut.  As part of this training program, you will also have an opportunity to visit several of our divisions throughout the United States. 

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:

After your successful completion of the training program, you will be assigned a sales territory and home base. You will be required to travel within your sales territory approx. 50% of the time.  Sales Engineer Trainees are responsible for selling our product directly to the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) and industrial distributors. 

EDUCATION:      

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Distribution, Engineering, or Business

  • Strong mechanical aptitude

EXPERIENCE:     

Technical Sales Experience and sales training

SKILLS / CERTIFICATIONS:

The ideal candidate will have the following Skills and Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering or Business
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Initiative driven by strong social and interpersonal skills to support external sales
  • Adaptability
  • Professional written and verbal communications skills
  • Time management
  • Problem solving skills
  • Strong work ethic

RBC Bearings offers a competitive benefit package including a company car.  Interested candidates may send resumes to:  jnmartinez@rbcbearings.com

                                 RBC Bearings is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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