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Combat Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$63K - $127K/yr

Job Title: Systems Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance ... Knowledge of Navy Radars, Electronic Warfare, and various Combat Systems. * Combine and integrate ...

GCCS-M SYSTEMS ENGINEER

San Diego, CA

$110K - $151K/yr

Systems Engineer Position Summary Serve as the primary liaison between Naval Undersea Warfare ... Demonstrated expertise in submarine combat systems employment, Tomahawk strike operations, third ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ... The Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for the development, integration ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ... The Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for the development, integration ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ... The Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for the development, integration ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ... The Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for the development, integration ...

Systems Engineer

Jamul, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ... The Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for the development, integration ...

Systems Engineer

Escondido, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ... The Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for the development, integration ...

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). This position is contingent upon award news, expected ... The Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for the development, integration ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 8, 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 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 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 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 cities in California are hiring for Combat Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Combat Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Combat Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% 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.

Systems Engineer

CACI International, Inc.

Riverside, CA โ€ข On-site

$63K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Systems Engineer
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Continental US
* * *
The Opportunity:
CACI is actively searching for a skilled System Engineer to support Detection on systems with engineering analysis and analytical assessment of the system's readiness at the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Corona. If you are looking for your next career challenge with a highly skilled development team, CACI would like to speak with you.
Responsibilities:
  • Understand, utilize, and communicate division-level processes and tools such as MRDB, TSP, etc., to support RM&A(Reliability, Maintainability,
    and Availability) assessment.
  • Preferred (but not required): Knowledge of Navy Radars, Electronic Warfare, and various Combat Systems.
  • Combine and integrate all failure data to analyze and assess a single system, multi -system, or system of systems readiness.
  • Develop and document single system or system of systems reliability models and criteria for scoring system failure events.
  • Research and learn about Navy systems.
  • Use readiness assessment tools, whether Navy-specific or Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS).
  • Learn and use the established data editing process, including data review and data extraction & loading.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Relevant Degree or US Navy equivalent work experience.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders at various
    levels.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance

Desired:
  • Active DoD SECRET Security Clearance Preferred.
  • Knowledge of probability theory and its application in the fi eld of reliability, maintainability, and availability (RM&A).
  • Knowledge of Navy organization, structure, ship classes, and shipboard systems.

What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$63,800 - 127,500 USD
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.