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Principal Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Doist

Principal Project Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$125 - $160/hr

Principal Project Engineer Full Time San Diego,CA Salary Range: $125,000.00 To $160,000.00 Annually As a Principal Project Engineer/Manager in San Diego, CA you will have an opportunity to work with ...

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Raymond West

Principal Project Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

The Principal Project Engineer will support the development of complex integrated solution proposals in the capacity of Subject Matter Expert through award, execution, and after installation ...

Arete Associates

Principal Project Engineer

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$170K - $215K/yr

We are looking for a Technical Principal Project Engineer to act as a critical bridge between design engineering, production and Program management. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a ...

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All JobsPrincipal Project Engineer JobsPrincipal Project Engineer Jobs in California

Principal Project Engineer information

See California salary details

$73K

$145.3K

$209.7K

How much do principal project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal project engineer in California is $145,292.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,900.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a principal project engineer typically interact with cross-functional teams during a project's lifecycle?

A Principal Project Engineer plays a central role in coordinating efforts across various departments, such as design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement. They lead technical discussions, ensure alignment on project goals, and resolve cross-functional challenges to keep the project on track. Effective communication, stakeholder management, and the ability to translate technical requirements between teams are crucial for success in this role. Regular meetings, progress updates, and collaborative problem-solving sessions are common aspects of their daily responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Principal Project Engineer, you need deep expertise in engineering principles, project management, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering with several years of relevant experience. Proficiency with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and relevant industry certifications (like PMP or PE licensure) is often required. Leadership, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills help drive cross-functional teams and stakeholder alignment. These abilities are crucial for delivering complex projects on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

What is the difference between Principal Project Engineer vs Project Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Project EngineerProject Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's degree in engineering and extensive experience; often professional engineer (PE) licenseBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLeads large projects, oversees teams, and coordinates with stakeholdersSupports project tasks, manages specific project segments, reports to senior engineers
Industry UsageCommon in construction, oil & gas, and infrastructure sectorsUsed across various engineering fields for project execution

The Principal Project Engineer holds a senior leadership role, overseeing entire projects and teams, while the Project Engineer focuses on specific project tasks and supports project management. Both roles require engineering credentials, but the Principal Project Engineer typically has more experience and responsibilities.

What is a principal project engineer?

Principal Project Engineers are senior-level professionals responsible for leading and managing complex engineering projects from conception to completion. They oversee project teams, coordinate resources, ensure adherence to technical standards, and communicate with stakeholders to deliver projects on time and within budget. Their role often involves high-level decision-making, risk management, and providing technical guidance to other engineers. Additionally, they may help set project strategies and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.
Principal Project Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Project Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,292 per year, or $69.9 per hour.

Principal Project Engineer

Doist

San Diego, CA • On-site

$125 - $160/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

# Principal Project EngineerATALNT • • Recruitment, Transport, B2B • 3h agoSave this role or tell us whether you want more jobs like it.Principal Project Engineer Full Time San Diego,CA Salary Range: $125,000.00 To $160,000.00 Annually As a Principal Project Engineer/Manager in San Diego, CA you will have an opportunity to work with a multi-disciplinary team on meaningful, landmark projects in the San Diego, CA area. As a team member, you will help clients and communities turn their dreams into reality. You will learn from and work alongside industry-leading experts and together shape the future of tomorrow.### RequirementsQualifications Qualified candidate will have a BSCE degree CA Registration as a Professional Civil Engineer, (or ability to obtain in next 6 months) A minimum of eight (8-12) years relevant experience; or the equivalent work experience of twelve (12-15) years in this industry. Candidates for this position must demonstrate: Independent thought and decision-making abilities Must demonstrate strong independent thought and decision-making abilities A minimum of three years management experience supervising the work of technical staff required Possess demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills Demonstrate Project management ability Be adept in establishing and maintaining strong and positive working relationships with clients/public-agency personnel and in-house staff Managerial experience will include the following: Management of construction documents and contracts Management of construction support and field coordination Management of project schedules and budgets Preparation of contracts, fee proposals, and scopes of work Significant experience in client and public-agency interactions Management of Design and Support Staff Technical experience will include the following: Ability to perform conceptual and preliminary engineering design studies (incorporating land use and zoning considerations, assessment and consideration of site constraints, infrastructure requirements, and potential regulatory issues) Preparation/processing of regulatory plans Preparation/processing of public improvement plans (private and public) Ability to perform constructability reviews Experience with a range of construction support services Knowledge of jurisdictional codes, standards, and procedures in the State of CA and the region is strongly preferred. AutoCAD/Civil 3D. CAD experience is required. Additional Skills: Applies engineering principles, techniques, and procedures for Civil Engineering design Possesses working knowledge of business and management principles associated with strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership techniques, production procedures, interview and hiring methods and the coordination of people Accepts and carries out responsibility for the design team's direction, control and planning; sets realistic goals and makes decisions independently Exhibits a thorough understanding of jurisdictional processing Negotiates effectively Demonstrates a high level of leadership & management ability; accepts and responds appropriately to constructive feedback with others and applies seasoned time management Relates well and maintains a high level of respect and confidence from co-workers, public agencies Demonstrates a high level of competence in written and oral communication Possesses knowledge of CAD and its capabilities for preparing exhibits, studies and/or final plans### Benefits What We Offer GenerousBenefits Package Medical, Dental, Vision, Profit Sharing, 401K, and Life and Disability Insurance and Personal Leave Holiday Parties, Team Building Activities and Events and Alternative Work Schedule #J-18808-Ljbffr

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