ENGINEERING PATHWAY
Exploring the Engineering Pathway
If you enjoy solving problems, are curious about how things work, and have strengths in math, science, and technology, a career in engineering could be the right path for you. This field draws in people who like to design, build, and improve systems, structures, and processes, while making a real difference in the world.
Engineering careers also offer strong job stability and the chance to work across many industries, including infrastructure, energy, healthcare, technology, and environmental sustainability. Engineers often collaborate in teams, apply creative thinking to complex challenges, and see their ideas turn into real-world solutions that improve everyday life.
Engineering and engineering-related technical roles play a critical role in the Inland Empire’s economy, particularly in advanced manufacturing, logistics infrastructure, energy systems, and industrial operations. As the region continues to expand and modernize facilities, engineering careers support long-term workforce needs by filling both new positions and replacing retiring professionals.
Engineering Job Openings
Median Wage Advantage
Engineering careers in the Inland Empire offer a strong wage advantage compared to many other regional occupations. Roles in engineering, engineering technology, and applied technical fields typically provide higher-than-average earnings, reflecting the demand for specialized technical knowledge, problem-solving, and system design skills across IE industries.
Demand for Engineering Skills
Demand for engineering skills in the Inland Empire is driven by continued growth in advanced manufacturing, logistics automation, energy systems, and infrastructure development. Employers increasingly seek workers with expertise in electrical, mechanical, industrial, and mechatronics engineering, as well as applied engineering technologies that support modern, efficient operations throughout the region.
Careers in Engineering with Typical Earnings
Civil Engineer
Median annual wage: $93,000
Industrial Engineer
Median annual wage: $94,010
Software Engineer / Developer
Median annual wage: $120,730
Mechanical Engineer
Median annual wage: $95,300
Environmental Engineer
Median annual wage: $99,890
Biomedical Engineer
Median annual wage: $101,620
Electrical Engineer
Median annual wage: $105,830
Aerospace Engineer
Median annual wage: $122,270
Engineering Technician
Median annual wage: $61,150
Inland Empire Employers That Hire Engineering Talent
Public Sector & Infrastructure
County of Riverside
(civil, transportation, environmental, and public works engineers)
https://www.rivco.orgCity of Riverside
(infrastructure, utilities, and municipal engineering roles)
https://www.riversideca.govRiverside Public Utilities
(electrical, water, and power systems engineers)
https://www.riversideca.gov/utilities
Manufacturing & Advanced Industry
Boeing (Southern California region)
(aerospace, mechanical, and systems engineers)
https://www.boeing.com/careersGeneral Atomics
(engineering roles in aerospace, defense, and advanced technologies)
https://www.ga.com/careersTesla (manufacturing and engineering operations)
(manufacturing, automation, and industrial engineering roles)
https://www.tesla.com/careers
Energy, Utilities & Environmental Services
Southern California Edison (SCE)
(electrical, power systems, and grid modernization engineers)
https://www.sce.com/careersMetropolitan Water District of Southern California
(civil, environmental, and water resources engineers)
https://www.mwdh2o.com/careersEnvironmental consulting and engineering firms
(sustainability, environmental compliance, and infrastructure projects)
Technology, Design & Professional Services
AECOM
(civil, structural, environmental, and transportation engineering)
https://www.aecom.com/careersJacobs Engineering Group
(engineering, construction, and technical consulting services)
https://www.jacobs.com/careersLocal and regional engineering consulting firms
(design, project management, and technical services)
Resources for Students, Families, and Educators
Regional & Career Development Tools
Inland Empire/Desert Regional Consortium (Strong Workforce) – Engineering education pathways, apprenticeships, and regional industry info.
https://www.rccd.edu/strongworkforceRiverside County Office of Education – STEM & Career Readiness – Programs that support engineering exploration and preparation.
https://www.rcoe.usSan Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools – Career & Technical Education – CTE pathways including engineering and technology.
https://www.sbcss.net
Statewide Engineering & STEM Tools
California CareerZone – Engineering Careers – Free site for students with interests, salary details, and job profiles for engineering pathways.
https://www.cacareerzone.orgCalifornia STEM Network – Connects schools, industry, and workforce partners; resources for STEM education and career pathways.
https://www.californiastem.orgCalif. Dept. of Education – Career Technical Education (CTE) – Engineering & technology course frameworks and certification resources.
https://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/ct/ct/
National Career Information Resources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Architecture & Engineering Occupations – Job descriptions, pay data, and outlook for dozens of engineering careers.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/O*NET Online – Engineering Occupations – Detailed skills, interests, and work activities for specific engineering jobs.
https://www.onetonline.orgNASA Internships & Fellowships – STEM opportunities for high school and college students interested in aerospace and engineering.
https://intern.nasa.gov