ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Engineering Contractor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cass Arrieta

Equipment Operator

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Cass Arrieta is a General Engineering Contractor specializing in wet utilities, dry utilities, structural concrete, and associated scopes of work within the public and private markets. With a ...

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

Western Engineering Contractors Inc. is seeking a qualified Heavy Equipment Operator for our Grading, Underground, and Paving Divisions for full-time employment. Western Engineering is a local ...

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

Western Engineering Contractors Inc. is seeking a qualified Foreman for our Underground Division for full-time employment. Emphasis for the position will be on meeting the project quality and ...

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

Western Engineering Contractors Inc. is seeking a qualified Heavy Equipment Operator for our Grading, Underground, and Paving Divisions for full-time employment. Western Engineering is a local ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEngineering Contractor JobsEngineering Contractor Jobs in California

Engineering Contractor information

See California salary details

$45.9K

$144.9K

$171.7K

How much do engineering contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineering contractor in California is $144,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engineering Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engineering Contractor, you need a strong background in engineering principles, project management, and relevant industry qualifications such as a bachelor's degree in engineering and, often, professional licensure (e.g., PE). Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools like MS Project, and construction codes is typically required, along with certifications such as PMP or OSHA safety training. Excellent problem-solving, negotiation, and communication skills help build client relationships and manage multidisciplinary teams effectively. These abilities are crucial for delivering projects on time, within budget, and to required specifications while ensuring client satisfaction and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by Engineering Contractors when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Engineering Contractors often juggle several projects at once, which can lead to challenges such as balancing competing deadlines, coordinating with various stakeholders, and adapting to differing project requirements. Effective time management, clear communication, and strong organizational skills are crucial for success in this role. Contractors must also stay up-to-date with industry standards and ensure compliance across all projects, which can be demanding but also rewarding for those who enjoy dynamic work environments.

What are engineering contractors?

Engineering contractors are professionals or companies hired on a temporary basis to provide specialized engineering services for specific projects. They often work independently or through agencies, taking on contracts in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or infrastructure. Their responsibilities can include design, project management, consulting, and technical oversight. Unlike permanent employees, engineering contractors typically work for a set period or until a project is complete, offering flexibility and specialized expertise to organizations.

What is the difference between Engineering Contractor vs Engineering Consultant?

AspectEngineering ContractorEngineering Consultant
CredentialsEngineering licenses, certifications, project management skillsEngineering licenses, specialized expertise, industry certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site project execution, construction sites, manufacturing facilitiesOffice-based, client meetings, project planning
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, engineering firms, industrial companiesConsulting firms, engineering firms, corporate clients

Engineering Contractors primarily focus on executing engineering projects on-site, managing construction and installation. Engineering Consultants provide expert advice, planning, and design services, often working remotely or in offices. Both roles require engineering credentials but differ in their scope and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Engineering Contractor jobs in California? For Engineering Contractor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Engineering Contractor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Engineering Contractor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Engineering Contractor jobs? Cities in California with the most Engineering Contractor job openings:
Engineering Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engineering Contractor job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,945 per year, or $69.7 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer- Contractor

Mechanical Engineer- Contractor

Acorn Product Development, Inc.

Milpitas, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

We are a product engineering services company for leading companies around the globe. We embrace collaboration, simplify complex engineering challenges, establish supply chains, and plan for manufacturing and delivery. Our proven expertise, relationships, and processes help our clients bring innovative, reliable, and cost-effective products to market.
We are looking for Mechanical Engineer (contractors) to work with our team in Milpitas, CA.
Local candidates preferred.
Requirements
  • 8+ years of design and engineering analysis experience w/ a BSME or equivalent (MSME preferred).
  • Demonstrated success designing and developing products in Robotics, Automation, Networking, Consumer, Medical Devices.
  • Experience transitioning complex electromechanical products from early concept into production.
  • Experience defining engineering requirements and hardware architecture for complex systems.
  • Knowledge of designing molded, sheet metal and machined components.
  • Experience with mechanisms; motion control is a plus.
  • Adept at specifying and sourcing off-the-shelf components (e.g. actuators, bearings, fluid handling components)
  • Proficient with SolidWorks (Creo a plus).

On-the-job experience in the following areas:
  • High quality CAD model development and 2D fabrication drawings
  • Tolerance analysis
  • FEA and/or CFD
  • Strength of materials
  • Heat transfer
  • Shock & vibration
  • Hands-on systems bring-up and integration with a cross functional team.

Apply