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Military Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stationary Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$6.0K - $7.7K/mo

STATIONARY ENGINEER Additional Documents * Job Application Package Checklist * Duty Statement ... CA Military Dept. Work Shift: 7:00am-3:30pm Work Week: Monday-Friday Department Information The ...

Lead Operating Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Technical or trade school background, union training, or military engineering experience * Background in industrial maintenance or manufacturing environments Role impact This position is designed for ...

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Military Engineer information

See California salary details

$24K

$72.2K

$142.5K

How much do military engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for military engineer in California is $72,163.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,189.00 and $82,744.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a military engineer?

Military engineers are professionals who design, build, and maintain infrastructure and systems that support military operations. Their work includes constructing bases, fortifications, bridges, roads, airfields, and other facilities essential for defense and logistics. They also handle tasks such as demolitions, minefield clearance, and the development of defensive systems. Military engineers use their technical expertise to ensure that military forces can move efficiently and operate safely in various environments. Their skills are critical both during combat operations and in peacetime support roles.

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

To thrive as a Military Engineer, you need a solid background in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant degree and military training. Familiarity with specialized military equipment, CAD software, and project management systems is essential, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent military credentials. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and adaptability skills help individuals excel in high-pressure and rapidly changing environments. These competencies ensure mission success, effective infrastructure development, and operational safety in both peacetime and combat scenarios.

What are some typical challenges military engineers encounter during deployment, and how can they prepare for them?

Military Engineers often face unique challenges during deployment, such as working in austere or rapidly changing environments, dealing with limited resources, and ensuring both safety and efficiency under pressure. They may need to quickly adapt engineering solutions to meet mission-critical needs, coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, and respond to unexpected technical or logistical issues. Preparation involves thorough training, strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication with both military and civilian personnel to ensure successful project completion.

What is the difference between Military Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectMilitary EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, military clearance, specialized trainingEngineering degree, professional licensure
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, combat zones, field operationsConstruction sites, urban planning, infrastructure projects
Employer & IndustryMilitary branches, defense contractorsConstruction firms, government agencies, private sector

Military Engineers focus on defense-related infrastructure, often working in challenging environments, while Civil Engineers design and build public and private infrastructure projects. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Military Engineers also need military training and clearance. Their work environments and employers differ, with Military Engineers serving in the armed forces and Civil Engineers working in civilian sectors.

Do military engineers get paid well?

Military engineers typically receive competitive salaries that include base pay, allowances, and benefits such as housing and healthcare. Their compensation varies based on rank, experience, and service branch, and they often have opportunities for career advancement and specialized training.

How do you become a military engineer?

To become a military engineer, candidates typically need to meet the military branch's education requirements, often a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, and pass relevant entrance exams and physical fitness tests. Additional training is provided through military academies or officer training programs, and security clearances are usually required for working on defense projects.

What does a military engineer do in the military?

A military engineer designs, constructs, and maintains infrastructure such as bridges, roads, fortifications, and facilities to support military operations. They also analyze terrain, develop engineering solutions, and may work with specialized tools like explosives and heavy machinery in various field environments.

What cities in California are hiring for Military Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Military Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Military Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,163 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Stationary Engineer

Rancho Cordova, CA • On-site

$6.0K - $7.7K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Under the direction of the Area Coordinator and Assistant Area Coordinator, the Stationary Engineer is responsible for all facets of the California Military Department (CMD) facilities by performing a variety of skilled work in the operation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems within the three counties that the office covers: Ventura, Los Angeles, and Orange County. The incumbent is the senior mechanical-systems technical resource in the Area; supports preventive maintenance program execution; provides technical direction to Area 4 Maintenance Mechanics; and serves as the technical point of contact for HVAC, water treatment, elevator, fire alarm/sprinkler, and related mechanical service contracts performed within the Area.
Effective July 1, 2025, specific Bargaining Units and associated Excluded State employees are subject to a salary reduction between 2% - 4.62% in exchange for Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025) hours each month. For more details about PLP 2025 , visit the California Department of Human Resources ( CalHR ) website.
This posting may be used to fill future vacancies in accordance with 2 CCR §249.3
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Working location: 3725 E Stearns St. Long Beach, CA 90815
Visa Sponsorship: CMD is not an E - Verify employer and does not offer visa sponsorship. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of appointment.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • STATIONARY ENGINEER
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-530000
Position #(s):
006-300-6712-002
Working Title:
Stationary Engineer
Classification:
STATIONARY ENGINEER $6,088.00 - $7,707.00 A
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Los Angeles County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
CA Military Dept.
Work Shift:
7:00am-3:30pm
Work Week:
Monday-Friday
Department Information The California Military Department is a diverse, community-based organization comprised of four pillars: the California Army National Guard, the California Air National Guard, the California State Military Reserve and the California Youth and Community Programs. Across our organization, we are committed to improving, preparing and protecting our communities, state and nation.
The California Military Department (CMD) is committed to fostering a professional, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment where all employees are valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We are dedicated to providing positive opportunities for growth, development, and advancement.
Employees working for the California Military Department (CMD) are subject to the provisions of California Military and Veterans Code § 398.
Department Website: http://www.calguard.ca.gov/
Special Requirements
  • The position(s) require(s) a valid California Drivers License (CDL). You must answer the questions addressing your CDL on your application. Ensure you provide your CDL number, class, expiration date, and any endorsements and/or restrictions.
  • The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
Employment History on the STD 678 must be complete and include dates, accurate hours per week, total time worked, duties and responsibilities, and contact names and phone numbers of supervisors.
Real ID Act: Effective May 31, 2025, and in accordance with the Real ID Act of 2005, access to all military installations will require a REAL ID compliant driver's license or identification card issued by the DMV. Individuals who do not have a REAL ID must present one of the following acceptable alternative documents: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, or an active or retired military ID.
For more information about the Real ID Act of 2005, visit Congress.gov For details on how to apply for a REAL ID, visit DMV.ca.gov .
Background Investigation - Common Access Card (CAC): This position requires background investigation and the issuance and continued possession of a Department of Defense (DoD) Common Access Card (CAC), as a condition of employment. The CAC is required to access certain facilities, systems, or information necessary to perform the duties of the position.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/8/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Military Department
CA Military Dept.
Attn: State Personnel - Box 27
10601 Bear Hollow Drive
Rancho Cordova , CA 95670-6350
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Military Department
CA Military Dept.
State Personnel - Box 27
10601 Bear Hollow Drive
Rancho Cordova , CA 95670-6350
Drop-off at security check-in.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
  • Education or practical experience in the operation and maintenance of HVAC systems, including the use of automatic controls.
  • Experience using computerized work order management systems (e.g., Legacy, Web Works, Azzier, or comparable platforms).

Benefits CMD offers a competitive pay schedule and a work-life balance for all its employees. The State of California provides comprehensive benefits packages determined by the employee's bargaining unit and conditions of employment. Some benefits include:
  • Alternative work schedules
  • Flexible work hours
  • Remote work options
  • Lodging & Camping
  • Medical benefits, including health, dental and vision insurance
  • Paid holidays and a defined benefit retirement program
  • More than three weeks of vacation/sick leave for staff
  • Health insurance in retirement
  • Employee Assistance Program
Employees from the University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) may be eligible to transfer prior service credit to State of California employment through CalPERS.
Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Department Website: http://www.calguard.ca.gov/
Human Resources Contact:
Classification & Pay
(916) 845-3791
sp.classandpay@cmd.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Ashley Johnson
(916) 845-3791
ashley.johnson@cmd.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Sally Gill
(916) 854-3154
sally.gill@cmd.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Additional Application Requirements
Possession of Minimum Qualifications (MQ) will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting MQ's with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined an applicant does not meet the MQ's, the candidate will be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board.
Any documents you submit for a job vacancy such as your state application, resume, cover letter, educational transcripts, etc. SHOULD NOT contain any confidential information, including your Social Security Number (SSN).
Applicants who completed their education outside of the US (with foreign degrees/transcripts) must obtain and submit verification of U.S. course/degree equivalency. Foreign education credential evaluation services can be found at NACES | National Association of Credential Evaluation Services.
Examination
To obtain list eligibility for the Stationary Engineer position(s), you must pass the qualifying examination.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.