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Engineer Officer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Prevailance

Diesel Engine Inspector (DEI)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Extensive experience as shipboard Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) on multiple diesel ships. * Extensive experience (at least 2 tours) as Navy Diesel Engine Inspector with Navy surface ship ...

TMMG

(C) Marine Gas Turbine Inspector (MGTI)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

Extensive experience as shipboard Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) on multiple Gas Turbine ships * Extensive experience (multiple tours) as Navy Marine Gas Turbine Inspector with Navy surface ...

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All JobsEngineer Officer JobsEngineer Officer Jobs in California

Engineer Officer information

See California salary details

$19.1K

$83.1K

$175.3K

How much do engineer officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer officer in California is $83,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,210.00 and $112,611.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an engineer officer?

Engineer Officers are professionals responsible for managing and overseeing the operation, maintenance, and repair of engineering systems and equipment, typically on ships, aircraft, or within military or industrial settings. They supervise technical teams, ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and play a key role in troubleshooting and resolving mechanical or technical issues. Engineer Officers are critical in maintaining the operational readiness and safety of the equipment under their care, often serving in leadership roles. Their expertise spans mechanical, electrical, and sometimes electronic systems, depending on their area of assignment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineer officer?

To excel as an Engineer Officer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, mechanical systems, and maritime operations, typically supported by a degree in marine or mechanical engineering and relevant licensure. Familiarity with shipboard machinery, maintenance management systems, and compliance with safety and environmental regulations is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing teams and responding to technical challenges at sea. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of a vessel's engineering systems, which is critical for mission success and crew safety.

What are some common challenges faced by engineer officers on board ships, and how can they effectively manage them?

Engineer Officers often encounter challenges such as maintaining complex machinery under tight schedules, troubleshooting unexpected technical issues, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Effective time management, strong communication with the deck crew and other engineers, and proactive maintenance routines are essential to address these challenges. Utilizing digital maintenance logs and participating in regular training updates also help Engineer Officers stay ahead of potential problems and uphold vessel safety and efficiency.

What is the difference between Engineer Officer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEngineer OfficerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, military or specialized certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, professional licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentMilitary or defense settings, ships, or naval basesManufacturing plants, design firms, research labs
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense, government agenciesPrivate companies, engineering firms, industrial sectors
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Engineer Officer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in their work environment and employer. Engineer Officers typically serve in military or defense settings with specialized certifications, while Mechanical Engineers work in industrial, manufacturing, or design sectors. Both roles require engineering degrees, but their career paths and daily tasks differ based on their industry focus.

How much does an engineer officer make?

An engineer officer's salary varies depending on the industry, experience, and location, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Military engineer officers often have different pay scales based on rank and years of service, with additional benefits such as housing and healthcare.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Engineer Officer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Engineer Officer job openings:

Engineer Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engineer Officer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,148 per year, or $40 per hour.

Diesel Engine Inspector (DEI)

Prevailance

San Diego, CA • On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Contract
Description
This position is contingent upon contract award
Multiple positions available
The Diesel Engine Inspector (DEI) is a propulsion inspection specialist (diesel) who provides diesel inspection expertise and inspector-perspective guidance for diesel auxiliary systems.
This position supports fleet readiness through management of propulsion system operations, combat systems maintenance, inspection programs, technical training, and complex engineering projects associated with Navy surface ships and military auxiliary vessels.
The DEI serves as a principal subject matter expert for diesel propulsion systems, combat systems operations, maintenance management, and depot-level maintenance processes. The position is responsible for supervising technical teams, coordinating with government stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with Navy operational, engineering, and maintenance standards.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and supervise technical personnel supporting propulsion plant operations, combat systems maintenance, engineering analyses, inspections, and technical project execution.
  • Provide technical management and engineering oversight across multiple Navy surface ships and military auxiliary vessels.
  • Serve as senior subject matter expert for diesel propulsion systems, diesel generators, associated control systems, auxiliary systems, and Navy combat systems.
  • Support operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, inspection, and readiness assessments for AEGIS and Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) combat systems.
  • Conduct and oversee diesel engine inspections in accordance with Navy maintenance procedures, standards, and certification requirements.
  • Support planning, coordination, and execution of depot-level and organizational-level maintenance activities for propulsion and combat systems.
  • Analyze operational and maintenance data to identify trends, improve system reliability, and enhance fleet readiness.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineering personnel, inspectors, operators, maintenance teams, and training staff.
  • Coordinate with government representatives, maintenance activities, ship's force personnel, Type Commanders (TYCOMs), Immediate Superior in Command (ISIC) staffs, and Afloat Training Groups.
  • Develop and review technical reports, inspection findings, maintenance assessments, readiness evaluations, and corrective action recommendations.
  • Ensure compliance with Navy engineering, operational, maintenance, and safety requirements.

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • Extensive Navy technical management experience on multiple ships.
  • Extensive experience as shipboard Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) on multiple diesel ships.
  • Extensive experience (at least 2 tours) as Navy Diesel Engine Inspector with Navy surface ship maintenance processes.
  • A minimum of fifteen (15) years of supervisory level watchstanding experience on warships or military auxiliaries with diesel engine propulsion systems as Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW), Propulsion Plant Watch Officer, Chief Engineer, or equivalent responsible for overall propulsion plant operations and associated auxiliary systems.
  • A minimum of fifteen (15) years of experience conducting diesel inspections on surface warships or military auxiliaries with qualifications and certification as or equivalent to a U.S. Navy Diesel Engine Inspector.
  • Direct operational and maintenance experience, within the last five (5) years, with diesel main propulsion, diesel generators, associated control systems, and associated auxiliaries currently in use by the Navy

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting Navy fleet modernization, readiness, lifecycle maintenance, or waterfront engineering programs.
  • Experience supporting shipyard operations, depot maintenance activities, or major maintenance availabilities.
  • Familiarity with Navy maintenance databases, combat systems documentation, engineering reporting systems, and technical data management tools.
  • Prior experience managing complex engineering or maintenance support contracts.

Work Environment
  • Work may be performed in office environments, shipboard locations, waterfront operations areas, maintenance facilities, or shipyards.
  • Position may require travel to fleet concentration areas, operational commands, maintenance facilities, and shipboard locations in support of inspections, maintenance activities, and operational readiness efforts.

Security Clearance
  • Active DoD security clearance (Secret or higher) required.

Salary Description
$110,000-$130,000

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