1

Marine Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Marine Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$125.5K

$164.8K

How much do marine systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for marine systems engineer in California is $125,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $154,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a marine systems engineer?

Marine Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, install, and maintain the mechanical and electrical systems found on ships, submarines, and offshore structures. Their work includes overseeing propulsion systems, power generation, HVAC, and auxiliary machinery to ensure vessel safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. They collaborate with naval architects, shipbuilders, and other engineers throughout the vessel’s lifecycle, from design through operation and maintenance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a marine systems engineer?

To thrive as a Marine Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in marine engineering, fluid dynamics, and electrical systems, typically backed by a degree in marine or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, marine simulation tools, and knowledge of maritime regulations and certifications such as STCW are important. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in complex, multidisciplinary environments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant marine vessel operations and system integrations.

What are some common challenges faced by marine systems engineers when working on vessels at sea?

Marine Systems Engineers often encounter challenges related to troubleshooting and maintaining complex machinery in harsh and unpredictable marine environments. Limited access to spare parts, time-sensitive repairs, and ensuring safety standards while at sea require strong problem-solving skills and adaptability. Collaboration with crew members and clear communication are essential, as engineers frequently work with multidisciplinary teams to resolve issues quickly and minimize downtime. These experiences help develop resilience and expertise that can advance your career in marine engineering.

What is the difference between Marine Systems Engineer vs Marine Electrical Engineer?

AspectMarine Systems EngineerMarine Electrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like STCWBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Marine Electrical Engineering; certifications like STCW
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and maintain marine systems on ships and offshore platformsInstall, troubleshoot, and repair electrical systems on ships and marine facilities
Industry UsageUsed across shipbuilding, offshore oil & gas, and maritime industriesPrimarily in ship maintenance, electrical system design, and marine electrical projects

Marine Systems Engineers focus on the overall design and integration of marine systems, while Marine Electrical Engineers specialize in electrical systems within ships and offshore structures. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their specific responsibilities differ.

Are marine systems engineers in demand?

Marine systems engineers are in demand in industries such as shipping, defense, and offshore energy, where expertise in designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex maritime systems is essential. Employment opportunities are often linked to advancements in marine technology, environmental regulations, and infrastructure projects, with a need for skills in systems integration, CAD tools, and certifications like NAVSEA or IMCA. The field offers steady job prospects for qualified engineers with relevant experience and technical knowledge.

How much do marine systems engineers make?

Marine systems engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $85,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in naval architecture or control systems can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000. Certifications and working in shipbuilding, defense, or offshore industries can also influence compensation.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Marine Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Marine Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Marine Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,549 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Sr. Principal Systems Engineer Level 4

NORTHROP GRUMMAN

Sunnyvale, CA

$129K - $193K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Join Northrop Grumman on our continued mission to push the boundaries of possible across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today.
Northrop Grumman is seeking a Sr. Principal Systems Engineer Level 4 to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals. The Marine Systems organization, part of Northrop Grumman Mission Systems, is searching for Systems Engineers in support of rapid growth in the Launcher Hardware organization. You will have the opportunity to be part of an expanding team of dedicated engineers directly supporting the engineering development of innovative launcher hardware for weapons systems on a variety of Navy platforms.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Perform requirements development, system integration, verification and validation, cost and risk, and supportability and effectiveness analyses for total systems
  • Support the logical and systematic conversion of customer or product requirements into total systems solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule and cost constraints.
  • Perform functional analysis, timeline analysis, detail trade studies, requirements allocation and interface definition studies to translate customer requirements into hardware and software specifications.
  • Generation and updating of System and sub-system level specifications in DOORS, including creation of Verification Cross Reference Matrices (VCRM) and verification traceability (tracing requirements to test plans/procedures/results)
  • Update and maintain system drawings and documents such as Interface Control Documents, Arrangement Drawings, etc.
  • Participate/Lead and coordinate preparation, conduct and closeout for internal and external customer reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, IRR, TRR, etc.)
  • Support the creation and refinement of Model Based System Engineering products (System behavioral models, Use Case realizations, State Machines, etc.)

The qualified candidate will possess the following skills:
  • The ability to multi-task and balance multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Demonstrate strategic thinking along with sound decision making and good judgments
  • Strong communication skills, both oral and written
  • Ability to work autonomously and in a team environment

Basic Qualifications Sr. Principal Systems Engineer (T4):
  • Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) discipline with 8 years relevant experience; or Master's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) discipline with 6 years relevant work experience, or PhD with 4 years of experience.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
  • First-hand experience with requirements and interface management
  • Familiarity with system drawings and documents such as Interface Control Documents, System/Subsystem Specifications, Verification Cross Reference Matrices (VCRM), etc.
  • Experience with system engineering tools such as IBM Rational DOORS
  • Familiarity with MBE/MBSE concepts and tools
  • Must be a US citizen
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in Systems Engineering
  • Understanding and knowledge of Agile (SCRUM) techniques and activities
  • First hand experience with MBSE concepts and tools (MagicDraw and / or Cameo preferred)
  • Experience in technical presentation and interfacing with customers
  • Design and operational knowledge of navy programs
  • Ability to read and interpret government or military specifications
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain an Active US Government Secret Clearance

Primary Level Salary Range: $129,300.00 - $193,900.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939