Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA

Modesto, California$84,150 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Modesto

Looking for a Manufacturing Engineer job in Modesto? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Manufacturing Engineer in Modesto, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Modesto has a strong job market for Manufacturing Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Manufacturing Engineer Salary in Modesto

Entry Level
$56,355
Median
$84,150
Senior Level
$117,300

Manufacturing Engineer salaries in Modesto are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Modesto is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Process EngineeringLean ManufacturingCADQuality ControlAutomation

Manufacturing Engineer Job Market in Modesto

Modesto, CA is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Manufacturing Engineer professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Modesto offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Agriculture leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Manufacturing Engineer roles across various sectors. The market for Manufacturing Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto

Living in Modesto as a Manufacturing Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Housing costs are manageable for Manufacturing Engineer salaries in the area. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

102
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Manufacturing Engineer in Modesto

Modesto Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Manufacturing Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Manufacturing Engineer earning $84,150 might pay approximately $6,732 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Manufacturing Engineers

The job outlook for Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Modesto offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Process Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, CAD, Quality Control.

Relocating to Modesto

California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Manufacturing Engineer salary in Modesto, CA?

The average Manufacturing Engineer salary in Modesto, CA is $84,150 per year. Entry-level Manufacturing Engineers typically start around $56,355, while experienced professionals can earn $117,300 or more. The national average for Manufacturing Engineer roles is $82,500.

How many Manufacturing Engineer jobs are available in Modesto?

Modesto has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Manufacturing Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Manufacturing Engineers include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Agriculture and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Modesto a good city for Manufacturing Engineers?

Modesto is an solid choice for Manufacturing Engineers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's agriculture industry creates strong demand for engineering professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto?

Top skills for Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto include Process Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, CAD, Quality Control, Automation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto?

Modesto's cost of living is near the national average (102% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Modesto is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Manufacturing Engineers in Modesto?

Modesto Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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