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Combustion Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Toyon

Computational Multiphysics Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$125K - $195K/yr

We are seeking a Computational Multiphysics Engineer with expertise in numerical methods and mathematical simulation to support the design and analysis of advanced antenna systems integrated into ...

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Combustion Engineer information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$87.1K

$129.3K

How much do combustion engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Combustion Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Combustion Engineer jobs in California are:
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,059 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Design Engineer (Combustion Devices)

Arbor Energy

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

About Us
At Arbor Energy & Resources Corporation ("Arbor Energy"), we're creating technology to power our lives while protecting the planet that sustains them. Our advanced power systems deliver clean, reliable baseload electricity with zero operating emissions-modular, fuel-flexible, and engineered for the realities of today's energy demand. At the core is a supercritical CO₂ turbine with integrated carbon capture, designed to bring carbon-neutral power online quickly at meaningful scale.
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 looking to the stars, we're applying that expertise here at home to deliver dependable, emission-free baseload power and a future of lasting abundance.
If you share our values and are drawn to rigorous work with lasting impact, we'd love to learn more about you. Come build what the future will run on.
Steward our planet: We build for tomorrow, ensuring every bolt we tighten and every hand we lend leaves our environment stronger than we found it.
Lead with Love: We champion the success of our people, partners, and planet, nurturing excellence through camaraderie and rigor.
Explore the Uncharted: We embrace the unknown with curiosity, using courage and discipline to transform uncertainty into opportunity.
Role Overview
We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer for our Combustion team to own the 3D design of high-temperature, high-pressure hardware from concept through fabrication. You'll collaborate closely with combustion engineers, analysts, and test engineers to develop practical, test-ready systems. Your work will leverage metal additive manufacturing, precision machining, and algorithmic design techniques to push the boundaries of modern fabrication.
This is an onsite opportunity in our El Segundo, CA office.
Responsibilities
  • Lead detailed 3D modeling of complex components and assemblies.
  • Apply Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) principles to optimize performance, cost, and manufacturability.
  • Create complete drawing packages with GD&T, assembly documentation, and bill of materials (BOMs).
  • Translate engineering requirements into practical, buildable designs.
  • Generate work instructions and collaborate with technicians during builds and test campaigns.
  • Continuously iterate based on feedback from analysis, testing, and fabrication.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or a related Engineering discipline.
  • 3+ years of experience in mechanical design of high-performance systems.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (Siemens NX preferred; others such as SolidWorks or Creo also acceptable).
  • Experience producing fully detailed drawing packages including GD&T and manufacturing specs.
  • Experience with additive manufacturing and DfAM principles.
  • Understanding of additive constraints: overhang angles, support strategy, build orientation, powder removal, etc.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Exposure to material behavior and surface finish considerations in high-temperature AM alloys (e.g., Inconel 625/718, Hastelloy, Haynes).
  • Familiarity with FEA or fluid/thermal analysis workflows.
  • Prior experience in a fast-paced, hands-on R&D or startup environment.
  • Exposure to combustion systems, high-temperature materials, or pressure vessels.
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.
Our Commitment
Arbor Energy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. Solving global energy challenges requires a wide range of perspectives and experiences, and we are committed to building a team that reflects the world we serve.
Our hiring process is designed to be accessible, fair, and focused on the work that matters most for this role. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the hiring process and employment-please let us know if you need one.

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