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Combustion Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Arbor Energy

Combustion Analysis Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

Role Overview We're looking for a Combustion Analysis Engineer to perform fluid, thermal, and structural analyses on our novel combustion systems-bringing high-performance engineering to the fight ...

Arbor Energy

Sr. Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$150K - $175K/yr

Role Overview The Sr. Combustion Engineer helps pioneer our rocket-inspired, high-pressure combustion systems for carbon-neutral and carbon-negative power cycles. In this role, you'll lead end-to-end ...

Arbor Energy

Lead Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$170K - $185K/yr

Role Overview Our Lead Combustion Engineer serves as the technical authority pioneering our rocket-inspired, high-pressure oxy-fuel combustion systems - integral in delivering carbon-neutral and ...

Arbor Energy

Combustion Analysis Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys ...

Arbor Energy

Sr. Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys ...

Arbor Energy

Lead Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys ...

Arbor Energy

Sr. Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$150K - $175K/yr

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys ...

Arbor Energy

Combustion Analysis Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys ...

Arbor Energy

Lead Combustion Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Our team includes aerospace engineers, combustion experts, and systems thinkers with a shared goal: to build technology worthy of the world we want to live in. While many of us began our journeys ...

CesiumAstro

Combustion Devices Engineer II

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$108K - $129K/yr

We are looking to add a Combustion Devices Engineer II to our team. In this role, you will work across the full hardware lifecycle from early concepts and CAD models through manufacturing, test ...

CesiumAstro

Combustion Devices Engineer II

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$108K - $129K/yr

We are looking to add a Combustion Devices Engineer II to our team. In this role, you will work across the full hardware lifecycle from early concepts and CAD models through manufacturing, test ...

Vast

Combustion Devices Engineer II

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Vast is looking for a Combustion Devices Engineer II , reporting to the Senior Manager of E-2 Engineering , to create the world's highest performing engine for small launchers, while optimizing for ...

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All JobsCombustion Engineer JobsCombustion Engineer Jobs in California

Combustion Engineer information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$87.1K

$129.3K

How much do combustion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for combustion engineer in California is $87,059.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $88,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Combustion Engineer?

A combustion engineer is skilled in the process of harnessing the energy created by heating up fuel. Job duties include installing combustion systems and testing the equipment once it is operational. A combustion engineer may also have to troubleshoot issues with equipment that is not working correctly. This technology can be found in many heating systems, including in a building or a car. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical or chemical engineering.

What does a Combustion Engineer do?

A Combustion Engineer specializes in the design, operation, and optimization of systems that burn fuel to produce energy, such as boilers, furnaces, and engines. They analyze combustion processes to improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and ensure safety. Their work often involves troubleshooting equipment, developing new combustion technologies, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Combustion Engineers play a critical role in industries like power generation, manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive engineering.

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

To thrive as a Combustion Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or chemical engineering, with expertise in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and combustion principles, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as ANSYS Fluent or CHEMKIN), emissions testing equipment, and relevant industry certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional professionals apart in this field. These competencies are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant combustion system design and operation.

What is the difference between Combustion Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectCombustion EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in combustion or thermodynamicsEngineering degree, mechanical or related certifications
Work EnvironmentPower plants, industrial facilities, research labsManufacturing, design firms, maintenance facilities
Industry UsageEnergy, power generation, petrochemicalManufacturing, automotive, aerospace

Combustion Engineers focus on designing and optimizing combustion processes, often working in energy and industrial sectors. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on machinery, systems, and product design across various industries. While both roles require engineering degrees, combustion engineers specialize in combustion systems, whereas mechanical engineers work on mechanical components and systems.

What are some common challenges Combustion Engineers face when optimizing industrial combustion systems?

Combustion Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing efficiency, emissions control, and system safety when optimizing industrial combustion systems. Addressing varying fuel qualities, maintaining equipment reliability, and complying with strict environmental regulations can be demanding. Effective collaboration with process engineers, maintenance teams, and environmental specialists is essential to troubleshoot issues and implement improvements. Staying updated with advancements in combustion technology and control systems also helps in overcoming these challenges and ensuring optimal plant performance.
More about Combustion Engineer jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Combustion Engineer jobs in California? For Combustion Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Combustion Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Combustion Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Combustion Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Combustion Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Combustion Engineer jobs in CA? For Combustion Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Combustion Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Combustion Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,059 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Combustion Analysis Engineer

Combustion Analysis Engineer

Arbor Energy

El Segundo, CA

$130K - $150K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Role Overview

We're looking for a Combustion Analysis Engineer to perform fluid, thermal, and structural analyses on our novel combustion systems-bringing high-performance engineering to the fight against climate change. You'll work closely with combustion engineers and designers to inform and accelerate development using advanced simulation tools, algorithmic workflows, and additive manufacturing. Your work will help bridge modeling and reality through system integration and hot-fire test validation. 

This is an onsite opportunity in our El Segundo, CA office. 

Responsibilities
  • Perform CFD, transient thermal, and structural analyses on combustion hardware. 
  • Collaborate with combustion and mechanical engineers to develop practical, testable designs. 
  • Use integrated system models to inform design direction and support performance prediction. 
  • Help anchor simulation results with hot-fire test data and iterate models accordingly. 
  • Contribute to a fast-paced, collaborative team with a focus on climate-impactful technology. 
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related Engineering field. 
  • 3+ years of experience in fluid dynamics, CFD, structural and transient thermal analysis. 
  • Strong foundation in compressible and incompressible fluid mechanics. 
  • Experience with ANSYS Mechanical or similar analysis suites.
  • Proficient in Python, MATLAB, or similar scripting tools for automation and post-processing. 
  • Strong ownership mentality and eagerness to work collaboratively in a small, dynamic team. 
Preferred Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in propulsion or combustion analysis. 
  • Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering. 
  • Experience working in startup or agile development environments. 
  • Familiarity with conjugate heat transfer simulations. 
  • Interest in or ability to lead and grow a small analysis team over time. 
Compensation & Benefits
  • Pre-IPO stock options
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Arbor covers 90% for employees)
  • Basic life insurance fully covered
  • Health savings account (HSA) with matching
  • Flexible savings account (FSA)
  • Unlimited PTO 
  • 12+ company holidays, including Earth Day! 
  • 401(k)
  • Commuter benefits
  • Annual learning and development stipend
  • And more!

Base Pay: $130,000 - $150,000 USD/year. The salary is subject to the applicant's skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.

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