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Chief Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

ABM Industries

Chief Engineer

Laguna Hills, CA · On-site

$70/hr

ABM Industries is seeking a Facility Manager / Chief Engineer to oversee facility operations and building engineering functions at the TGS site in Laguna Hills. This is a newly established, high ...

ABM Industries

Chief Engineer

Laguna Hills, CA

$70/hr

ABM Industries is seeking a Facility Manager / Chief Engineer to oversee facility operations and building engineering functions at the TGS site in Laguna Hills. This is a newly established, high ...

ABM Industries

Chief Engineer

Laguna Hills, CA · On-site

$70/wk

ABM Industries is seeking a Facility Manager / Chief Engineer to oversee facility operations and building engineering functions at the TGS site in Laguna Hills. This is a newly established, high ...

HHM Hotels

Assistant Chief Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$30/hr

Assistant Chief Engineer Perform general maintenance functions to ensure guest service and sustainability standards are achieved and maintained throughout the hotel structure. Potential Career Path ...

Intellisense Systems, Inc.

Chief Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

Chief Engineer Intellisense Systems, Inc. is a fast-growing Southern California technology innovator that solves tough, mission-critical challenges for our customers in the aerospace, defense, and ...

Intellisense Systems Inc

Chief Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

As Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for guiding development of new and existing efforts performed by a multi-disciplinary team of electrical, mechanical, firmware, and software engineers. Your ...

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All JobsChief Engineer JobsChief Engineer Jobs in California

Chief Engineer information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$91.7K

$178.6K

How much do chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief engineer in California is $91,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Chief Engineers face when managing multidisciplinary engineering teams?

Chief Engineers often oversee teams that include specialists from various engineering disciplines, which can present challenges in aligning different technical perspectives and ensuring effective communication. Balancing project deadlines, resource allocation, and maintaining quality standards while navigating these differences is a frequent part of the role. Successful Chief Engineers foster strong collaboration, facilitate knowledge sharing, and implement standardized processes to address these challenges. They also play a key role in mentoring junior engineers and promoting professional development within the team.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities.

What Is a Chief Engineer?

Chief engineer is a job title that has a range of meanings across different industries. A chief engineer is the head of the engineering department in an organization. The duties and responsibilities of this role vary in different industries. In general, a chief engineer must have engineering experience in the industry, strong leadership qualities and problem-solving skills. Depending on the industry, the education requirements for a chief engineer job range from an associate degree to advanced degrees in engineering.

What does the Chief Engineer do?

A Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing the technical operations and maintenance of a facility, ship, or industrial plant. They manage engineering staff, ensure safety and compliance standards are met, and often handle budgeting and project planning. Strong leadership, technical expertise, and relevant certifications are essential for this role.

How much does a Chief Engineer earn?

A Chief Engineer's salary varies depending on industry, location, and experience, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. They often hold certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) and oversee technical operations, maintenance, and safety protocols in engineering projects or facilities.

What is the difference between Chief Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectChief EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, professional engineering license, leadership experienceEngineering degree, possibly licensure, technical skills
Work EnvironmentProject management, overseeing teams, strategic planningDesign, analysis, testing, and development of mechanical systems
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, aerospaceManufacturing, automotive, HVAC, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Chief Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in their responsibilities and seniority. The Chief Engineer typically oversees projects, manages teams, and ensures technical standards at a strategic level, often requiring leadership experience and licensure. Mechanical Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems, working on technical tasks without the managerial responsibilities of a Chief Engineer. Both roles are vital in engineering industries, but the Chief Engineer holds a higher-level, supervisory position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Engineer, you need advanced engineering expertise, leadership experience, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in engineering. Familiarity with project management tools, CAD software, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are typically required. Outstanding problem-solving, communication, and team management skills help drive innovation and ensure smooth coordination across engineering teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for overseeing complex projects, maintaining high technical standards, and achieving organizational goals.

What does a Chief Engineer do?

A Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing the engineering operations of an organization or project. They lead engineering teams, manage technical projects, and ensure that systems and infrastructure are maintained and improved according to industry standards. Chief Engineers also develop policies, coordinate with other departments, and solve complex technical problems to support the organization's goals. Their role often involves budgeting, staff management, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in large corporations or high-demand industries.
More about Chief Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Chief Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Chief Engineer jobs in California? For Chief Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chief Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Chief Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Chief Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Chief Engineer jobs in CA? For Chief Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Chief Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,728 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Chief Engineer

Astrion

San Diego, CA • On-site

$65/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 hours ago

Job description

Overview
Chief Engineer (Permanent Party)
LOCATION: San Diego, CA
JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station)
CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card
CERTIFICATION: USCG
TRAVEL: 100%
COMPENSATION: Max $65/hr
Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Chief Engineer to work full time aboard USAV Worthy.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
Education:
  • Must have a High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Graduate of a state or federal Maritime Academy, or U.S. Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in Propulsion; Machinist Mate; Engineman; Damage Control; Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; etc.
    • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels may be substituted for the formal education requirement.

Experience:
  • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels

Certifications:
  • US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements.
  • Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card (CAC). Current U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Ability to pass a post offer drug screen and physical/medical clearance.
  • Current and Valid U.S. Passport*.

*(Passport, MMC/MMD, and med cert must have minimum of 6 months of validity prior to placement, or proof of renewal in progress.)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
  • Experience or background in government/public vessel operations.
  • Experience with vessels in a reduced operating status (ROS).
  • Background in supporting US Army requirements as it pertains to ocean going vessels.
  • Experience with diesel electric propulsion systems.
  • Knowledge of common safety practices and protective equipment used on an ocean-going vessel.
  • Self-starter, team player and conscientious worker.

RESPONSIBILITIES
The Chief Engineer on the vessel and must work closely with the vessel Master, Chief Mate, and other personnel involved with vessel operations including RGNEXT range safety personnel and embarked personnel. The USAV Worthy is a 200 ft long, 1,483 ton, special purpose vessel with a diesel electric propulsion system and a bow thruster. She typically carries a crew of 13 and up to 20 embarked mission personnel. Operates and maintains the assigned vessel's propulsion and auxiliary engineering systems.
  • Work with the vessel Master and the Chief Mate in executing the USAV Worthy maintenance program. Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of the vessel's systems in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
  • Determine, source, and order parts, supplies, and material requirements for job accomplishment.
  • Accurately inputs O&M data, as well as projects long range maintenance issues.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load-line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed.
  • Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On-Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry-docking on a three-year basis
  • Supervises engineering team including permanent crew and surge crew. Aids in training and development of crew members.
  • Reports to the Master and the RGNEXT Technical lead for Range and Mission Safety.
  • Coordinates with mission staff (supernumeraries) and other personnel on Kwajalein for logistics, provisioning, re-stocking, and requesting maintenance activities for the vessel.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load-line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Ensure logbooks and records are maintained and accurately completed.
  • Complies with and enforces safety regulations, guidelines, policies and procedures both within the Astrion polices and the relevant and applicable RGNEXT OSHE policies: including but not limited to RGNEXT OSHE hearing conservation and respiratory protection programs.
  • Ensures the vessel is operated and navigated in accordance with applicable US laws/regulations and host nation laws/regulations.
  • Perform Fire and Emergency duties associated with the Chief Engineer's billet on Ship's Station Bill.

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