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Chief Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

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 ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

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 ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

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 ...

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 ... The role combines hands-on technical engineering oversight with facility management ...

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 ... The role combines hands-on technical engineering oversight with facility management ...

ABM Industries

Chief Engineer

Laguna Hills, CA

$70/wk

ABM Industries is seeking a Facility Manager / Chief Engineer to oversee facility operations and ... The role combines hands-on technical engineering oversight with facility management ...

HHM Hotels

Assistant Chief Engineer

Anaheim, CA

$30/hr

... of Engineering Essential Job Functions * Assist Chief Engineer in interviewing, selecting, training, scheduling, coaching and supporting associates, ensuring they perform in accordance with ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsChief Engineering JobsChief Engineering Jobs in California

Chief Engineering information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$91.7K

$178.6K

How much do chief engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief engineering 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 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 knowledge, leadership experience, and a relevant engineering degree—often supported by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with project management software, CAD systems, and industry-specific technical tools is typically required. Strong decision-making, communication, and team management skills help distinguish high-performing Chief Engineers. These competencies are crucial for successfully leading engineering teams, ensuring technical excellence, and delivering projects on time and within budget.

What is the difference between Chief Engineering vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectChief EngineeringMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, often with leadership experienceBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles overseeing engineering teams and projectsDesign, analysis, and development of mechanical systems
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large corporations, industrial, and infrastructure projectsCommon in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and product design

Chief Engineering roles focus on leadership, project oversight, and strategic planning within engineering teams, often requiring experience and advanced credentials. Mechanical Engineers are involved in designing and analyzing mechanical systems, typically with a focus on technical expertise. Both roles are essential in engineering industries but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What does a chief engineer do?

A Chief Engineering, often referred to as the Chief Engineer, oversees all engineering operations within an organization. They are responsible for managing engineering teams, developing technical strategies, ensuring that projects meet quality standards, and maintaining compliance with safety and industry regulations. The Chief Engineering also collaborates with other departments to support business objectives and drive innovation. Their leadership ensures the technical excellence and efficiency of engineering projects from conception to completion.

What are some common challenges faced by a chief engineering officer when leading cross-functional teams?

As a Chief Engineering Officer, one common challenge is ensuring effective communication and alignment between engineering and other departments, such as product management, design, and operations. Balancing technical priorities with business objectives often requires negotiation and strategic planning. Additionally, fostering a culture of innovation while maintaining productivity and meeting deadlines can be demanding. Successful Chief Engineering Officers proactively address these challenges by promoting transparency, encouraging collaboration, and implementing clear processes for decision-making.
What are popular job titles related to Chief Engineering jobs in California? For Chief Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chief Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Chief Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Chief Engineering job openings:
Chief Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% 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

Re-posted 15 days 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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