Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,210 | $68,730 | +19.6% vs US |
| State Rank | #4 of 46 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 3,300 jobs | 37,450 jobs | 8.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,070 | $25.03 |
| 25th Percentile | $63,970 | $30.75 |
| Median | $82,210 | $39.52 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,250 | $49.16 |
| 90th Percentile | $121,240 | $58.29 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $82,210 in California and a 2019–2024 salary trend of +25.5%, mechanical engineering technologists and technicians are still in strong and growing demand.
How can mechanical engineering technologists and technicians increase their salary in California?
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #4 out of 46 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Natural Gas Distribution | $105,910 |
| Oil and Gas Extraction | $99,340 |
| Oil and Gas Extraction | $99,340 |
How are Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California is $82,210, which is 19.6% above the national median of $68,730.