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Chief Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Intellisense Systems, Inc.

Chief Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$200 - $300/hr

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 ...

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

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 ...

WINDSOR CAPITAL GROUP

Chief Engineer

Temecula, CA · On-site

Windsor Hospitality is looking for their newest Chief Engineer! ABOUT THIS LOCATION This position is located at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Temecula CA . We are located in Southern California ...

WINDSOR CAPITAL GROUP

Chief Engineer

Temecula, CA · On-site

As Chief Engineer, you're responsible for the entire physical operation of the property: every system, every guest room, every capital project. You'll work directly with the General Manager, partner ...

Windsor Hospitality

Chief Engineer

Temecula, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

As Chief Engineer, you're responsible for the entire physical operation of the property: every system, every guest room, every capital project. You'll work directly with the General Manager, partner ...

1440 Multiversity

Chief Engineer

Scotts Valley, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

The Chief Engineer is a hands-on, mission-aligned leader responsible for maintaining, improving, and enhancing the physical heart of our 75-acre redwood campus. This role ensures that every building ...

1440 Multiversity

Chief Engineer

Scotts Valley, CA

The Chief Engineer is a hands-on, mission-aligned leader responsible for maintaining, improving, and enhancing the physical heart of our 75-acre redwood campus. This role ensures that every building ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 11, 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.

Is a chief engineer a high position?

A chief engineer is a high-level management position responsible for overseeing engineering operations, projects, and technical staff within an organization. It typically requires extensive experience, technical expertise, and leadership skills, and often involves supervising teams and managing budgets.

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 advanced technical skills and certifications, such as Professional Engineer (PE) licenses, and may oversee engineering teams or projects in manufacturing, construction, or energy sectors.

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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,728 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Chief Engineer

Peachtree Hospitality Management

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$70K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Chief Engineer | AC Hotel Sacramento
Compensation: $70,304 - $70,500 per year
The Chief Engineer is responsible for all administrative, financial, and operational aspects of the hotel as they directly relate to the engineering department. The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and profitable operation of the hotel engineering department.
  • Approach all encounters with guests and team members in a friendly, service-oriented manner. Comply at all times with Peachtree Hospitality Management Standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient hotel operations.
  • Have knowledge and understanding of all department policies and procedures, and communicate and enforce all policies fairly and consistently with staff.
  • Supervise and train all engineering staff in SOP's and Loss Prevention standards.
  • Adhere to the annual budget for the department.
  • Post all engineering staff schedules and monitor for overtime and changes.
  • Develop and implement plans to maintain the property, equipment, grounds, and other assets in an acceptable state of repair.
  • Ensure that all emergency and life safety equipment and systems are inspected, tested, and certified per standards.
  • Ensure that room maintenance requests are handled in a prompt and courteous manner.
  • Follow-up on all alarms immediately to determine the exact location and cause. Determine emergency status and report findings to the front desk. Take immediate action as necessary.
  • Actively participate in energy conservation programs.
  • Ensure compliance with the American Disabilities Act (ADA).
  • Administer all vendor contracts controlled by the Engineering department.
  • Make sure all daily work orders are assigned to proper engineers, either verbally or in writing.
  • Check inventory on parts and keep in stock all mechanical, electrical, and kitchen equipment parts.
  • Perform other duties as requested by management.
  • Attend and/or conduct all training/meetings as requested by management

Peachtree Group provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. We also offer a generous 401(k) retirement match. To support work-life balance, we provide Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off. Additional perks include access to our Employee Assistance Program and Fund.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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