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Head Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Wonderschool

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA

The Head of Engineering is responsible for building the high-performing engineering organization ... Background as a founder or early-stage engineer What We Are Looking For * Someone who builds high ...

LHi Group Ltd

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$250K - $500K/yr

Head of Engineering | AI Infrastructure Startup I'm working with a rapidly growing AI infrastructure startup that's looking for a Head of Engineering to partner directly with the founders and build ...

Wonderschool

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Head of Engineering is responsible for building the high-performing engineering organization ... Background as a founder or early-stage engineer What We Are Looking For * Someone who builds high ...

Lawrence Harvey

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$300K - $400K/yr

Head of Engineering | AI Infrastructure Startup I'm working with a rapidly growing AI infrastructure startup that's looking for a Head of Engineering to partner directly with the founders and build ...

Valency Systems Inc

Head of Engineering

Berkeley, CA · On-site

The Position As our Head of Engineering, you will report directly to the CEO. You will own the technical architecture, define the engineering culture, hire and grow an engineering team, and shape how ...

David AI

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As the Head of Engineering, you will lead the engineering team in designing and developing core tools for audio data processing, while also overseeing the delivery of full-stack features and ...

LA Sports World

Head Coach

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Head Coach - Join the Team at LA Sports World in West Los Angeles! Are you passionate about youth ... Weekday afternoons, weekends, school breaks, and summer programming availability is especially ...

Wonderschool

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... Head of Engineering is responsible for leading a high-performing engineering team to ensure the ... engineer Company : Wonderschool offers a platform where people can start infant and toddler ...

Tahoe Mountain Club

HEAD TENNIS PROFESSIONAL

Truckee, CA · On-site

$25 - $100/hr

The Head Tennis Professional is responsible for delivering exceptional tennis instruction and programming for members and guests of Tahoe Mountain Club in a warm, professional, and service-oriented ...

Broccoli AI

Head of Engineering

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Head of Engineering @ Broccoli We're looking for a Head of Engineering to build and lead a high-performing engineering org that can ship ambitious product outcomes with speed, quality, and ...

Senra Systems

Head of Customer Programs

Cypress, CA · On-site

Head Of Customer Programs At Senra Systems, we believe that the future of manufacturing lies not in ... Partner closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Business Development, Supply Chain, Quality ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsHead Engineer JobsHead Engineer Jobs in California

Head Engineer information

See California salary details

$10

$39

$72

How much do head engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for head engineer in California is $39.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.78 and $47.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the main challenges a head engineer faces when leading cross-functional engineering teams?

One of the primary challenges for a Head Engineer is ensuring effective communication and alignment among diverse teams, such as software, hardware, and quality assurance. Balancing technical leadership with management duties—like resource allocation and project prioritization—can also be demanding. Additionally, the Head Engineer must foster collaboration and innovation while maintaining project timelines and meeting business objectives. Addressing these challenges requires strong interpersonal skills, a strategic mindset, and the ability to adapt to evolving project needs.

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

To thrive as a Head Engineer, you need advanced engineering expertise, project management experience, and typically a relevant engineering degree with professional certification (such as PE or equivalent). Familiarity with industry-standard software (like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or project management tools) and compliance with regulatory frameworks is crucial. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities set outstanding Head Engineers apart by enabling them to guide teams and drive innovation. These skills ensure successful project delivery, safety, and the development of efficient engineering solutions.

What is the difference between Head Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectHead EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentProject management, team leadership, strategic planningDesign, analysis, testing, and manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, engineering firmsAutomotive, aerospace, robotics, manufacturing

The Head Engineer typically oversees engineering projects, manages teams, and sets strategic goals, requiring leadership skills and experience. Mechanical Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and testing mechanical systems. While both roles require engineering credentials, the Head Engineer has a broader managerial scope, whereas Mechanical Engineers concentrate on technical tasks within their specialty.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Head Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Head Engineer job openings:

Head Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,125 per year, or $39 per hour.

Union Chief Engineer (San Francisco)

Boden Talent

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$197K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

3 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

This range is provided by Boden Talent. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$197,000.00/yr - $197,000.00/yr

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Union Chief Engineer to oversee engineering operations, manage building systems, and lead a team of technical staff and subcontractors for a healthcare facilities client. This role is central to maintaining high‑performing facilities through preventive maintenance, regulatory compliance, and hands‑on technical leadership.

Key Responsibilities
  • Oversee daily engineering operations, assign work orders, and provide technical and procedural training for staff and subcontractors.
  • Coordinate with clients and stakeholders to schedule preventive maintenance and system downtime while minimizing operational disruption.
  • Develop and implement comprehensive preventive maintenance programs to ensure all building systems operate reliably and reach full expected life cycles.
  • Monitor building systems—including fire life safety, HVAC, mechanical, and plumbing—to ensure all equipment operates within design parameters and meets required environmental conditions.
  • Supervise and inspect work performed by engineering personnel, ensuring all tasks are completed to the highest standard and that all areas are restored to proper working condition.
  • Respond to emergencies, mobilizing additional resources when necessary.
  • Apply advanced, multidisciplinary engineering knowledge to solve complex problems and create innovative solutions.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to engineering staff using broad experience across multiple technical disciplines.
  • Lead by example, modeling professional conduct, safety, and service excellence.
  • Collaborate with senior leaders, regulators, clients, and vendors to influence strategic decisions and resolve concerns.
  • Drive resource allocation, project direction, and the development of policies and procedures to support operational excellence.
  • Support the creation and delivery of new programs, services, and process improvements that enhance facility operations.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma, GED, or trade school certification, with 8–10 years of relevant engineering experience.
  • Prior supervisory or shift management experience strongly preferred.
  • Ability to meet physical requirements, including standing, walking, climbing ladders/stairs, and lifting or carrying 50 lbs. or more.
  • Strong conceptual and analytical thinking skills with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical challenges.X-III, Y?)
  • Regulatory and Compliance understanding
  • Awareness of Joint Commission Standards
  • Experience of managing a team of engineers/technicians
Compensation

Compensation for this position is governed by an applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement. The current negotiated rate for the Union Chief Engineer position is $94.76 per hour. Please refer to the relevant Collective Bargaining Agreement for full pay scale details.

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Boden Talent by 2x

Benefits
  • Medical insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Pension plan

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