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Combat Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VSolvit

SYSTEMS ENGINEER II

Norco, CA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Knowledge of Navy ship classes, combat systems, and shipboard equipment. * Experience supporting DoD Test & Evaluation or systems engineering programs. * Experience with Model-Based Systems ...

VTG

Systems Engineer/Technical Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$82K - $170K/yr

Familiarity with AN/SQQ-89 or comparable surface ship sonar/combat system preferred * Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, systems engineering, or technical field required

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All JobsCombat Systems Engineer JobsCombat Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Combat Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do combat systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat systems engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a combat systems engineer?

Combat Systems Engineers are specialized engineers who design, develop, integrate, and maintain the complex electronic and software systems used in military defense platforms, such as ships, aircraft, and ground vehicles. Their work involves ensuring that radar, sonar, weapon control, communications, and other warfare systems operate effectively and reliably under demanding conditions. They collaborate closely with other engineers, technicians, and military personnel to deliver and sustain technologically advanced, mission-critical solutions. These professionals play a key role in enhancing the operational capability and safety of armed forces.

What collaborative projects does a combat systems engineer participate in, and how do they interact with other teams?

Combat Systems Engineers frequently work on multi-disciplinary projects that require close collaboration with software developers, hardware engineers, systems integrators, and project managers. They are often involved in integrating new combat technologies, troubleshooting system interoperability, and conducting system performance tests. Regular communication with naval operators and defense clients is also common to ensure that solutions meet practical operational requirements. Working in cross-functional teams is essential, and strong teamwork and communication skills are highly valued in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a combat systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Combat Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or systems engineering, knowledge of defense systems, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with specialized software (such as MATLAB or CAD tools), systems integration platforms, and security clearances are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the reliable design, integration, and maintenance of complex defense technologies in high-stakes environments.

What is the difference between Combat Systems Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectCombat Systems EngineerSystems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often military or defense certificationsBachelor's or higher in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDefense, military, or aerospace industries, often in secure facilitiesVarious industries including tech, aerospace, manufacturing
Industry UsagePrimarily defense and military projectsBroad industry applications including tech, aerospace, and manufacturing
Job FocusDesign, integrate, and test combat systems and weaponryDesign and develop complex systems for diverse applications

While both roles involve systems design and integration, Combat Systems Engineers focus specifically on military and defense combat systems, often requiring specialized certifications and security clearances. Systems Engineers have a broader scope across various industries, emphasizing general system development and integration.

What are popular job titles related to Combat Systems Engineer jobs in California?

For Combat Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Combat Systems Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Combat Systems Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Combat Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Combat Systems Engineer job openings:

Combat Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Combat Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Waterfront Combat Systems Engineering Support Specialist

INDUS Technology, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

The Team and the Role
INDUS is a 100% employee-owned, customer-focused government services provider with expertise in Engineering, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Program/Financial Management, Logistics, and Data Analytics. At INDUS, we believe in the value of the INDUS team. Together we deliver exceptional customer service, foster a growth and support-centered work environment, and focus on how we can give back to the communities that we serve. Empowering our employees starts on day one and creates an environment full of innovation and promise. By offering mentorship and robust Training and Development opportunities, INDUS continues its pursuit to be the Employer of Choice.
Reporting to the Program Manager, the Waterfront Combat Systems Engineering Support Specialist will be the primary point of contact for all Combat System readiness assessments, engineering analyses, shipboard inspections, corrective-action validation, and technical reporting while providing direct engineering and technical support to the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Ship Readiness Office on behalf of Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC), Port Hueneme Division (PHD). This position is located in San Diego, CA.
What You'll Do
  • Act as a waterfront program representative and engage with Ships' Crew, LCSRON personnel, and other waterfront stakeholders to identify and verify issues affecting fleet readiness.
  • Provide technical guidance and instruction on maintenance and installation procedures.
  • Conduct research and readiness risk assessments using fleet reports and performance data to support workload prioritization.
  • Apply reliability and maintainability techniques during studies, failure modes and effects analysis, and trade-off analyses.
  • Perform on-ship inspections and verifications to gather Objective Quality Evidence, assess material condition, and validate corrective actions.
  • Identify, evaluate, and provide solutions to emergent fleet problems.
  • Document and present findings, status reports, action plans, fleet deployment assessments, and lessons learned to senior military and civilian leadership.
  • Bid and proposal support if requested.
  • Other duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications:
  • An active secret clearance is required to be considered for this position.
  • HS Diploma required.
  • Three (3) years of experience providing combat systems engineering and technical support in a U.S. Navy waterfront or similar DoD environment.
  • Ability to conduct readiness assessments using fleet reports and performance data.
  • Ability to perform on-ship inspections and verifications, gather Objective Quality Evidence, assess material condition, and validate corrective actions.
  • Ability to document and present findings, status reports, and action plans.
  • Must possess basic computer literacy and data entry skills.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (to include MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
  • Must possess strong time management skills.
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced, changing, and challenging environment.
  • Travel Required ~10% travel required.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited university in engineering or a related technical field is desired.
  • Experience supporting Littoral Combat Ship, fleet readiness, waterfront, maintenance, installation, or combat systems activities.
  • Experience applying reliability and maintainability techniques, failure modes and effects analysis, or trade-off analyses.
  • Experience working with Ships' Crew, LCSRON personnel, or other waterfront stakeholders.
  • Experience providing technical guidance on maintenance and installation procedures.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to remain seated in a stationary position 50% of the time. Must also be able to alternate between sitting, standing, and walking.
  • The work requires some physical exertion, such as long periods of standing, or recurring and considerable walking, stooping, bending, crouching, and climbing such as performing regular shop activities, inspections, or to observe and study operations in an industrial or comparable work area, or on-board ships, submarines, and/or in weapon facilities.

INDUS aims to provide a competitive compensation package, including a strong pay for performance rewards approach. The expected base pay range for this position is $70,304 - $85,000. This position is eligible to participate in our corporate 401(k) and Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) programs, and may be eligible for performance bonuses, and other rewards and benefits (see more about our compensation package and benefits offered at Culture @ INDUS | INDUS Technology). The pay range for this role considers job-related knowledge, skills, work location, education and training, and certifications. To drive fair pay practices for employees, INDUS conducts regular comparisons across our employee groups and the industry.
INDUS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic.
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