Entry Level Mechanical Engineer
The Entry Level Mechanical Engineer role focuses on developing and maintaining detailed 3D models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings to support machinery design and improvement. The engineer applies mechanical design principles, GD&T, and collaborates with cross-functional teams and vendors to ensure manufacturable, reliable, and cost-effective solutions while supporting customer service and continuous improvement initiatives in a hybrid work environment based in San Diego.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This Contract-to-Hire R&D Design Engineer role is an entry-level mechanical engineering position based in San Diego, CA. You will develop and maintain detailed 3D models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings to support new machinery and equipment improvements. Work closely with cross-functional teams (production, fabrication, assembly, purchasing, service) and vendors to ensure designs are manufacturable, reliable, and cost-effective.
- Create and maintain 3D models and assemblies using SolidWorks and manage files with EPDM.
- Produce and update manufacturing drawings and bills of materials.
- Apply company design standards and GD&T to engineering documentation.
- Assist with design of new machinery and modifications to existing equipment.
- Perform engineering calculations, analysis, testing, and troubleshooting to validate designs.
- Research materials, components, manufacturing processes, and relevant industry standards.
- Collaborate with vendors for component selection and technical clarifications.
- Support customer service by providing technical guidance and resolving product-related issues.
- Contribute to product validation, engineering changes (ECOs), and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Provide regular progress updates to project teams and leadership.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
- Internship, co-op, academic project experience, or up to 2 years of engineering experience.
- Proficiency with SolidWorks (including configurations) and EPDM.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD for drawings and layouts.
- Knowledge of GD&T and its practical application to drawings.
- Basic understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, and mechanical systems.
- Familiarity with manufacturing processes including welding, machining, sheet metal fabrication, and assembly.
- Strong problem-solving, organizational, verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Fluency in English.
Preferred / Helpful
- Experience with Inventor, FEA tools, prototype testing, or sheet metal design in SolidWorks.
- Prior exposure to production, fabrication, assembly, purchasing, or service support.
- Experience working with vendors on technical selections.
Work Environment & Position Details
- Position type: Contract-to-Hire (initial contract with potential conversion to direct hire).
- Employment type: Contractor (contract-to-hire) with potential conversion to full-time.
- Workplace: Hybrid — on-site in San Diego, CA with some remote flexibility per team needs.
- Pay range: $32.00 - $34.00 per hour. Individual pay will depend on qualifications, experience, location, and other job-related factors.
- Benefits (if eligible): medical, dental & vision; 401(k); short/long-term disability; life insurance; HSA; transportation benefits; employee assistance program; PTO — eligibility and details depend on classification and length of employment.
- Anticipated application deadline: Sep 8, 2026 (subject to change).
Why Join the Team
This role offers hands-on engineering experience in a manufacturing-focused environment where you’ll see designs through from CAD to the shop floor. You’ll develop practical skills in SolidWorks, EPDM, AutoCAD, GD&T, and manufacturing processes while collaborating with experienced engineers and production teams. The contract-to-hire structure provides a clear pathway to a long-term role with the Confidential Client.
Legal & Compliance Notes
This posting follows applicable U.S. state and federal employment laws. The position is located in San Diego, CA; because a salary range is provided, it is displayed above in compliance with pay transparency requirements. Careertakes and the Confidential Client will consider candidates without discrimination and will provide reasonable accommodations as required by law.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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