Aircraft Engineer Jobs in California
Aircraft Engineer jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in defense systems, commercial aviation, and aerospace manufacturing across a seniority range from entry-level technicians through senior design engineers. The largest hiring hubs are Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Antelope Valley, home to longtime employers such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing. The most consistent demand falls in structures and systems design, avionics integration, and propulsion engineering. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Aircraft Design Engineer – Structural & Systems Modifications
Location: Tehachapi, CA | Full-Time | On-Site
Minimum Experience: 5 Years
Applicants must reside within reasonable commuting distance of Tehachapi, CA, or be willing to relocate. Relocation assistance may be discussed.
About the Position
Adaptive Aerospace Corporation supports customers who do interesting things with airplanes, and we're looking for engineers who enjoy doing the same.
Our aircraft modifications encompass structural, mechanical, and systems engineering. We are seeking an experienced, motivated Design Engineer who enjoys challenging projects and thrives in an environment that encourages creativity, independence, and technical ownership.
The ideal candidate can independently develop practical engineering solutions from concept through manufacturing and installation, while ensuring designs meet customer requirements, applicable FAA standards, and AAC's engineering expectations.
Key Responsibilities
- Design aircraft structural, mechanical, and systems modifications to meet mission and performance requirements.
- Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks.
- Apply engineering principles to structural integrity, material selection, weight, durability, and manufacturability.
- Perform engineering calculations and support structural analysis and FAA compliance documentation.
- Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and installation teams to ensure successful project execution.
- Troubleshoot design and installation challenges and develop effective solutions.
- Communicate technical progress and design solutions to AAC leadership and customers.
- Independently manage assigned engineering projects while meeting quality and schedule requirements.
- Provide technical guidance and support to other team members as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of relevant engineering experience, preferably in aerospace, aircraft modifications, or mechanical/structural design.
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks, including 3D modeling, assemblies, and detailed engineering drawings. CSWA certification or equivalent proficiency required.
- Strong understanding of mechanical design, structural principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
- Ability to independently develop engineering solutions and manage multiple priorities.
- Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
- U.S. citizenship required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with aircraft structural modifications and systems integration.
- Familiarity with FAA regulations, certification processes, and engineering substantiation.
- Experience with structural analysis and FEA software, including NASTRAN/PATRAN.
- Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes, machining, fabrication, and GD&T.
- Hands-on experience supporting aircraft installations, testing, or modifications.
- A genuine passion for aviation and innovative aircraft design.
Pay Range: $45.00–$60.00 per hour, depending on experience (DOE).
- 4/10 Work Schedule: Enjoy a four-day workweek, working four 10-hour days with three-day weekends.
- Health Benefits: Company-paid medical, dental, and vision premiums for employees, plus a 25% contribution toward dependent coverage.
- 401(k) Retirement Plan: Company matching contributions up to 4% of compensation after one year of employment.
- Paid Time Off: Starting at two weeks annually, increasing with years of service.
- Paid Holidays: Nine observed holidays annually.
- Additional Benefits: Life insurance, disability coverage, supplemental insurance options, and a cell phone/data allowance.
Compensation is based on qualifications, relevant experience, and technical expertise.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume and relevant qualifications to hr@adapt.aero with the subject line Aircraft Design Engineer – Application.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs and access confined areas of aircraft for inspections, measurements, and installation support, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Why Join AAC?
At AAC, our engineers do more than create drawings. They take ownership of challenging projects, work directly with manufacturing teams, and see their designs become reality. We value innovation, independence, technical excellence, and a passion for aviation.
If you enjoy solving complex engineering challenges and want to make a direct impact on unique aircraft modification projects, we'd like to hear from you.
Adaptive Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Pay: $45.00 - $65.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k) 4% Match
- Dental insurance
- Disability insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid parental leave
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- CAD: 3 years (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Tehachapi, CA 93561: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Aircraft Design Engineer – Structural & Systems Modifications
Location: Tehachapi, CA | Full-Time | On-Site
Minimum Experience: 5 Years
Applicants must reside within reasonable commuting distance of Tehachapi, CA, or be willing to relocate. Relocation assistance may be discussed.
About the Position
Adaptive Aerospace Corporation supports customers who do interesting things with airplanes, and we're looking for engineers who enjoy doing the same.
Our aircraft modifications encompass structural, mechanical, and systems engineering. We are seeking an experienced, motivated Design Engineer who enjoys challenging projects and thrives in an environment that encourages creativity, independence, and technical ownership.
The ideal candidate can independently develop practical engineering solutions from concept through manufacturing and installation, while ensuring designs meet customer requirements, applicable FAA standards, and AAC's engineering expectations.
Key Responsibilities
- Design aircraft structural, mechanical, and systems modifications to meet mission and performance requirements.
- Develop detailed 3D models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks.
- Apply engineering principles to structural integrity, material selection, weight, durability, and manufacturability.
- Perform engineering calculations and support structural analysis and FAA compliance documentation.
- Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and installation teams to ensure successful project execution.
- Troubleshoot design and installation challenges and develop effective solutions.
- Communicate technical progress and design solutions to AAC leadership and customers.
- Independently manage assigned engineering projects while meeting quality and schedule requirements.
- Provide technical guidance and support to other team members as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of relevant engineering experience, preferably in aerospace, aircraft modifications, or mechanical/structural design.
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks, including 3D modeling, assemblies, and detailed engineering drawings. CSWA certification or equivalent proficiency required.
- Strong understanding of mechanical design, structural principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
- Ability to independently develop engineering solutions and manage multiple priorities.
- Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
- U.S. citizenship required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with aircraft structural modifications and systems integration.
- Familiarity with FAA regulations, certification processes, and engineering substantiation.
- Experience with structural analysis and FEA software, including NASTRAN/PATRAN.
- Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes, machining, fabrication, and GD&T.
- Hands-on experience supporting aircraft installations, testing, or modifications.
- A genuine passion for aviation and innovative aircraft design.
Pay Range: $45.00–$60.00 per hour, depending on experience (DOE).
- 4/10 Work Schedule: Enjoy a four-day workweek, working four 10-hour days with three-day weekends.
- Health Benefits: Company-paid medical, dental, and vision premiums for employees, plus a 25% contribution toward dependent coverage.
- 401(k) Retirement Plan: Company matching contributions up to 4% of compensation after one year of employment.
- Paid Time Off: Starting at two weeks annually, increasing with years of service.
- Paid Holidays: Nine observed holidays annually.
- Additional Benefits: Life insurance, disability coverage, supplemental insurance options, and a cell phone/data allowance.
Compensation is based on qualifications, relevant experience, and technical expertise.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume and relevant qualifications to hr@adapt.aero with the subject line Aircraft Design Engineer – Application.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs and access confined areas of aircraft for inspections, measurements, and installation support, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Why Join AAC?
At AAC, our engineers do more than create drawings. They take ownership of challenging projects, work directly with manufacturing teams, and see their designs become reality. We value innovation, independence, technical excellence, and a passion for aviation.
If you enjoy solving complex engineering challenges and want to make a direct impact on unique aircraft modification projects, we'd like to hear from you.
Adaptive Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Pay: $45.00 - $65.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k) 4% Match
- Dental insurance
- Disability insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid parental leave
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- CAD: 3 years (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Tehachapi, CA 93561: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
See All 24 Aircraft Engineer Jobs in California
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Find Aircraft Engineer JobsAircraft Engineer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Aircraft Engineer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in aircraft engineer jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, or aeronautical engineering from an accredited program
- FAA Designated Engineering Representative credentials or eligibility preferred for design roles
- Experience with aircraft structural analysis tools such as NASTRAN or CATIA
- Familiarity with FAA airworthiness regulations and Part 25 or Part 23 certification processes
- Active or eligible DoD security clearance for defense and military aircraft programs
- Strong background in systems integration, avionics, or propulsion for California defense contractors
Aircraft Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become an aircraft engineer in California?
Most aircraft engineer roles in California require a bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, or aeronautical engineering from an ABET-accredited program. California does not require a state-issued license specific to aircraft engineering, though a Professional Engineer license through the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists strengthens candidacy for senior roles. Many employers also expect FAA or DoD program familiarity before hiring.
How much do aircraft engineers make in California?
Aircraft engineers in California earn a median of about $157,620 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $104,370 for the lowest 10% to over $220,670 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire aircraft engineers in California?
Employers hiring aircraft engineers in California right now include Joby Aviation, Shield, and General Atomics, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. California's concentration of defense primes and commercial MRO operators means hiring tends to be steady and spread across both large contractors and specialized engineering firms throughout the Los Angeles Basin and San Diego region.
Which California cities have the most aircraft engineer jobs?
The California cities with the most aircraft engineer openings are San Diego, Marina, and Poway. Los Angeles anchors the list because of the dense cluster of defense contractors and aerospace manufacturers in the region, while San Diego's naval aviation programs and Palmdale's classified defense facilities in the Antelope Valley drive hiring in those areas even though they are smaller markets overall.
Are there remote aircraft engineer jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Aircraft engineering is largely a hands-on discipline tied to physical hardware, test facilities, and classified programs, so most California roles require on-site presence. About 25% of aircraft engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and those positions are almost exclusively in systems analysis, technical documentation, or program management rather than design or manufacturing.
How can I get hired as an aircraft engineer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is an internship or co-op with a California defense contractor or aerospace manufacturer while still completing an engineering degree. Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Boeing all run structured new-graduate programs at their Southern California facilities. Lateral entry from mechanical or electrical engineering roles is common, and obtaining an FAA student pilot certificate or building a portfolio through university design competitions like AIAA can give a candidate a clear edge in early interviews.
Where can I find and apply to aircraft engineer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to aircraft engineer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across defense, commercial aviation, and aerospace manufacturing. Find roles that fit your experience and specialty, then apply directly to the employer through the listing.
See All 24 Aircraft Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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