How to Become a Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California earn a median salary of $82,210/year, which is 20% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a mechanical engineering technologists and technicians takes home approximately $3,791/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a mechanical engineering technologists and technicians can afford in California
Becoming a mechanical engineering technologists and technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many mechanical engineering technologists and technicians positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for mechanical engineering technologists and technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 3,300 mechanical engineering technologists and technicians. The highest concentrations are in Bakersfield-Delano and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bakersfield-Delano | $107K | $51.42/hr | 140 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $98K | $47.02/hr | 670 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $93K | $44.78/hr | 400 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $80K | $38.29/hr | 40 |
| Vallejo | $79K | $38.21/hr | 30 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $78K | $37.6/hr | 70 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $78K | $37.34/hr | 390 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $76K | $36.41/hr | 1,040 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $73K | $34.85/hr | 50 |
| Fresno | $64K | $30.75/hr | 30 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $59K | $28.25/hr | 170 |
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians salary range in California
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a mechanical engineering technologists and technicians make in California?▼
The median mechanical engineering technologists and technicians salary in California is $82,210 per year ($39.52/hr). This is 20% above the national median of $68,730. Salaries range from $52,070 to $121,240.
What are the requirements to become a mechanical engineering technologists and technicians in California?▼
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a mechanical engineering technologists and technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $82,210, a mechanical engineering technologists and technicians in California would take home approximately $5,203/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for mechanical engineering technologists and technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for mechanical engineering technologists and technicians in California are Bakersfield-Delano ($106,940), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($97,800), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($93,150). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for mechanical engineering technologists and technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $82,210 salary, this means roughly $3,783/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.