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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 ...

Santa Maria Country Club

Head Chef

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

The club maintains a welcoming, family-friendly environment with year-round social programming ... The Head Chef oversees all culinary operations, including menu development, recipe standardization ...

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 ...

UFIT

Head Athletics Coach

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The Head Coach is the primary representative of UFIT on campus and is accountable for program ... Lead daily structured sports, PE, and recess programming aligned with UFIT curriculum and school ...

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 ...

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

Raised $25M+ from Khosla Ventures and YC 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 ...

Troon

Head Racquets Professional

Novato, CA · Hybrid

$25/hr

Head Racquets Professional - Marin Country Club Novato, CA About the Club Marin Country Club is a ... instruction, programming, member engagement, and staff development. The ideal candidate is ...

Qualitest Group

Digital Engineering Head

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$65.75 - $88/hr

The Digital Engineering Head - North America will drive technology strategy, solution design, and innovation across digital transformation engagements. This leader will combine deep technical ...

swarms.xyz

Head of Marketplace

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

As Head of Marketplace at Swarms, you will own the marketplace where agents, tools, and swarms are ... You will lead the marketplace engineering team, set the technical and product direction, and ...

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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 Jul 31, 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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

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 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications. Leadership roles like engineering managers and principal engineers also frequently reach or exceed this salary level, particularly in high-demand industries or companies with competitive compensation packages.

What does a head engineer do?

A head engineer oversees engineering teams, manages project development, and ensures technical standards are met. They coordinate with other departments, allocate resources, and often have expertise in specific engineering disciplines and leadership skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, electrical, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in specialized areas, managing large projects, or holding executive-level positions like engineering managers or technical directors.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,125 per year, or $39 per hour.

Engineer (Maintenance)

Leisure Sports, Inc.

Aliso Viejo, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Leisure Sports Engineering Department
Job Description
ENGINEER (Maintenance)
MISSION
To ensure that assigned repair and maintenance projects and responsibilities are completed on a timely basis, following all safety procedures and meeting all quality standards, while minimizing any impact on members and guests' full enjoyment of the facility. Assist the Chief Engineer in meeting the property's objective of well-maintained and fully operational facilities and equipment.
REPORTS TO
Chief Engineer
DRIVERS of SUCCESS
Specific Expertise and Skills in any of the following is required
  • Plumbing
  • HVAC Systems
  • Electrical, Wiring
  • Carpentry, Construction
  • Dry Wall, Painting
  • Tile Work
  • Pool, Steam, Jacuzzi, Sauna Equipment Maintenance
  • Fitness Center Equipment Maintenance
  • Overall Facility Knowledge
  • Cleanliness and Member Service Obsession
  • Team Player Attitude
  • Professional, Responsible

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Complete assigned facility / equipment inspections; report any problems or emergency situations to the Chief Engineer
  • Complete assigned engineering / maintenance work orders; fill in repair information on work order form and return to Chief Engineer
  • Complete assigned regular preventive and ongoing repair and maintenance duties at the prescribed intervals
  • Operate and use all equipment, tools and machinery properly and according to safety guidelines; store items properly and securely after use
  • Follow all property and OSHA safety guidelines
  • Inform the Head Engineer of any parts or supplies used out of inventory
  • Complete special projects as assigned by the Chief Engineer
  • Exercise the highest level of care in using chemicals or hazardous materials; follow guidelines and precautions on SDS sheets
  • Complete projects right the first time, ensuring adherence to the applicable standards of LSI/IHRSA and/or relevant regulatory bodies (i.e., Health or Fire Department)
  • Be available to assist with facility/equipment-related emergencies at the property
  • Other responsibilities or projects as assigned by the Chief Engineer

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Qualified candidates, with or without reasonable accommodations, must be able to:
  • Write, speak, read, hear and see
  • Walk, kneel, and bend
  • Lift and carry up to 100 lbs.
  • Stand for prolonged periods
  • Climb stairs and ladders
  • Operate a 25-foot lift
  • Operate light to heavy machinery plus hand tools
  • Set-up, take-down and rearrange equipment for functions
  • Work with chemicals or other potentially hazardous materials

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