Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California
Mechanical design engineer jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in aerospace and defense, semiconductor manufacturing, medical devices, and clean energy, with openings at every level from entry-level drafting roles through principal and staff engineers. The largest hiring hubs are the Los Angeles metro, the San Francisco Bay Area, and San Diego, where employers like Northrop Grumman, Apple, and Medtronic maintain deep engineering workforces. Product development and robotics integration are the most in-demand specialties right now. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 420+ Mechanical Design Engineer jobs
Company Overview
KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.
Group/Division
The SensArray division is the world leading provider of in situ processing measurement and control solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company provides measurement and control solutions to both semiconductor fabs and mask shops to ensure that yields are consistently high thus enabling cost-effective manufacturing. SensArray business unit is dedicated to support customer R&D phase as well as HVM with in-situ thermal process control. SensArray business unit enables APC (Automated Process Control) to improve process optimization and yield improvement.
Job Description
- Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and subsystem architectures using Creo and/or SolidWorks
- Own the complete mechanical design lifecycle, including:
- Requirements definition and feasibility studies
- Conceptual and detailed design
- Prototype build, test, and system integration
- Manufacturing release and sustaining support
- Create, maintain, and release engineering documentation (drawings, BOMs, specifications, installation layouts)
- Manage product data, configurations, and revision control using PLM systems (Intralink, Enovia)
- Create, maintain, and release engineering documentation including drawings, BOMs, and specifications
- Perform tolerance analysis, GD&T, and error budgeting to ensure robust and manufacturable designs
- Conduct engineering analyses including thermal, structural, vibration, and basic FEA
- Support and develop CNC machining programs (G-code) for precision components
- Design and integrate mechanical, fluidic, and electro-mechanical subsystems (pumps, valves, tubing, optics, sensors, motion elements)
- Develop P&ID-style schematics and system layouts based on product and customer requirements
- Select materials with emphasis on silicon properties, thermal behavior, chemical compatibility, and mechanical performance
- Collaborate with manufacturing and suppliers on DFM/DFA, fabrication methods, and cost optimization
- Support prototype builds, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis, including tolerance stack-up and fit issues
- Generate and process Engineering Change Orders (ECOs/COs) ensuring traceability and configuration control
- Define system-level requirements including facility interfaces, layout constraints, utilities, and serviceability
- Participate in and lead design reviews, ensuring alignment with quality, reliability, and safety standards
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in electro-mechanical or semiconductor capital equipment design
- Exposure to precision machining and high-vacuum or high-temperature systems
- Familiarity with DFM/DFA principles, precision machining, and fabrication processes (machining, sheet metal, welding, additive)
- Working knowledge of FEA tools for structural and thermal simulations
- Experience with material compatibility and CTE/heat expansion/contraction
- Ability to develop system schematics and flow diagrams (P&ID)
- Experience managing supplier design requirements and outsourced subsystems
- Experience in thermal modeling and stress/strain modeling
- Exposure to Mechanical AI and to use AI agents/workflow to expedite mechanical design
- Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Experience and Scope
- Independently executes sustaining and new development mechanical design activities
- Owns design, release, and lifecycle management of mechanical subsystems and components
- Contributes to integration, testing, and qualification of complex subsystems
- Participates in prototype test planning and validation of critical components
- Provides input to material acceptance criteria and supplier deliverables
- Demonstrates hands-on capability in diagnostics, troubleshooting, and root cause resolution
- Prepares test procedures, alignment instructions, manufacturing documentation, and service manuals
Working Environment
- Semiconductor equipment development environment with exposure to:
- Cleanroom protocols
- Precision mechanical systems
- High-vacuum and high-temperature/low-temperature subsystems
- Silicon Material properties
Minimum Qualifications
Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years
- Technical degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
- Strong proficiency in 3D CAD tools (Creo/ProE preferred; SolidWorks acceptable)
- Experience with PLM systems such as Intralink or Enovia
- Solid understanding of engineering drawings, GD&T, and documentation standards
- Hands-on experience with CNC programming (G-code) and machining processes
- Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing environments and cleanroom practices
- Understanding of silicon material properties and behavior in temperature/precision environments
- Experience supporting prototype builds, testing, and troubleshooting
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
Compensation
- Base Pay Range: $117,800.00 - $200,300.00 Annually
KLA’s total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave. Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.
Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA’s Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.
Company Overview
KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world’s leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow’s electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.
Group/Division
The SensArray division is the world leading provider of in situ processing measurement and control solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company provides measurement and control solutions to both semiconductor fabs and mask shops to ensure that yields are consistently high thus enabling cost-effective manufacturing. SensArray business unit is dedicated to support customer R&D phase as well as HVM with in-situ thermal process control. SensArray business unit enables APC (Automated Process Control) to improve process optimization and yield improvement.
Job Description
- Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and subsystem architectures using Creo and/or SolidWorks
- Own the complete mechanical design lifecycle, including:
- Requirements definition and feasibility studies
- Conceptual and detailed design
- Prototype build, test, and system integration
- Manufacturing release and sustaining support
- Create, maintain, and release engineering documentation (drawings, BOMs, specifications, installation layouts)
- Manage product data, configurations, and revision control using PLM systems (Intralink, Enovia)
- Create, maintain, and release engineering documentation including drawings, BOMs, and specifications
- Perform tolerance analysis, GD&T, and error budgeting to ensure robust and manufacturable designs
- Conduct engineering analyses including thermal, structural, vibration, and basic FEA
- Support and develop CNC machining programs (G-code) for precision components
- Design and integrate mechanical, fluidic, and electro-mechanical subsystems (pumps, valves, tubing, optics, sensors, motion elements)
- Develop P&ID-style schematics and system layouts based on product and customer requirements
- Select materials with emphasis on silicon properties, thermal behavior, chemical compatibility, and mechanical performance
- Collaborate with manufacturing and suppliers on DFM/DFA, fabrication methods, and cost optimization
- Support prototype builds, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis, including tolerance stack-up and fit issues
- Generate and process Engineering Change Orders (ECOs/COs) ensuring traceability and configuration control
- Define system-level requirements including facility interfaces, layout constraints, utilities, and serviceability
- Participate in and lead design reviews, ensuring alignment with quality, reliability, and safety standards
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in electro-mechanical or semiconductor capital equipment design
- Exposure to precision machining and high-vacuum or high-temperature systems
- Familiarity with DFM/DFA principles, precision machining, and fabrication processes (machining, sheet metal, welding, additive)
- Working knowledge of FEA tools for structural and thermal simulations
- Experience with material compatibility and CTE/heat expansion/contraction
- Ability to develop system schematics and flow diagrams (P&ID)
- Experience managing supplier design requirements and outsourced subsystems
- Experience in thermal modeling and stress/strain modeling
- Exposure to Mechanical AI and to use AI agents/workflow to expedite mechanical design
- Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Experience and Scope
- Independently executes sustaining and new development mechanical design activities
- Owns design, release, and lifecycle management of mechanical subsystems and components
- Contributes to integration, testing, and qualification of complex subsystems
- Participates in prototype test planning and validation of critical components
- Provides input to material acceptance criteria and supplier deliverables
- Demonstrates hands-on capability in diagnostics, troubleshooting, and root cause resolution
- Prepares test procedures, alignment instructions, manufacturing documentation, and service manuals
Working Environment
- Semiconductor equipment development environment with exposure to:
- Cleanroom protocols
- Precision mechanical systems
- High-vacuum and high-temperature/low-temperature subsystems
- Silicon Material properties
Minimum Qualifications
Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years
- Technical degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
- Strong proficiency in 3D CAD tools (Creo/ProE preferred; SolidWorks acceptable)
- Experience with PLM systems such as Intralink or Enovia
- Solid understanding of engineering drawings, GD&T, and documentation standards
- Hands-on experience with CNC programming (G-code) and machining processes
- Familiarity with semiconductor manufacturing environments and cleanroom practices
- Understanding of silicon material properties and behavior in temperature/precision environments
- Experience supporting prototype builds, testing, and troubleshooting
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
Compensation
- Base Pay Range: $117,800.00 - $200,300.00 Annually
KLA’s total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave. Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at talent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.
Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA’s Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.
See All 420+ Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsMechanical Design Engineer Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Mechanical Design Engineer Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Apple115
- Rivian17
- Cadence Design Systems16
- NVIDIA10
- Google8
Top Industries Hiring
- Electronics & Hardware191
- Technology & Software101
- Manufacturing32
- Consulting & Professional Services24
- Banking & Financial Services17
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in mechanical design engineer jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering discipline
- Proficiency in 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or Creo
- Experience with GD&T, engineering drawings, and design-for-manufacturing principles
- Familiarity with materials selection, thermal analysis, and structural simulation tools
- Ability to collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, quality, and systems teams
- Professional Engineer licensure through the California Board for Professional Engineers is a plus for senior roles
Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a mechanical design engineer in California?
Most California employers require at least a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related field from an ABET-accredited program. For roles in regulated industries like defense, medical devices, or public infrastructure, many engineers pursue licensure through the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists, starting with the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and progressing to the Professional Engineer credential after gaining qualifying experience.
How much do mechanical design engineers make in California?
Mechanical design engineers in California earn a median of about $130,900 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $82,070 for the lowest 10% to over $203,620 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire mechanical design engineers in California?
Employers hiring mechanical design engineers in California right now include Apple, Rivian, and Cadence Design Systems, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. California's dense concentration of aerospace primes, semiconductor firms, and medical device companies means sustained demand across a wide range of employer sizes and industries.
Which California cities have the most mechanical design engineer jobs?
The cities with the most mechanical design engineer openings in California are Cupertino, San Jose, and Sunnyvale. The Los Angeles area anchors demand through its aerospace and defense base, the Bay Area through hardware and robotics companies tied to the tech industry, and San Diego through its medical device and defense contractor ecosystem.
Are there remote mechanical design engineer jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Mechanical design engineering is fundamentally hands-on, requiring access to labs, prototypes, and manufacturing floors, so most roles are on-site or hybrid at best. About 11% of mechanical design engineer openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, and those tend to concentrate in early-stage design review, simulation, and documentation work rather than full-cycle product development.
How can I get hired as a mechanical design engineer in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a new-graduate engineering role or a co-op converted to full-time at a large California manufacturer. Companies like Lockheed Martin, Boston Scientific, and Applied Materials run structured new-grad programs at their California facilities. Building a portfolio of CAD models and a senior capstone project strengthens applications, and a passed Fundamentals of Engineering exam signals seriousness to California hiring managers even before you accumulate years of work experience.
Where can I find and apply to mechanical design engineer jobs in California?
You can find and apply to mechanical design engineer jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings. Find the roles that fit your experience and location and apply directly.
See All 420+ Mechanical Design Engineer Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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