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Product Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Head of Product Engineering

Newport Coast, CA · On-site

$178K - $185K/yr

Product Engineering Executive Pacific Life is seeking an accomplished product engineering executive with deep engineering expertise and a proven record leading at scale in complex technology ...

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Head of Product Engineering

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$179K - $185K/yr

Pacific Life is seeking an accomplished product engineering executive with deep engineering expertise and a proven record leading at scale in complex technology ecosystems. This leader is accountable ...

We're looking for a hands-on Product & Engineering Leader who will own the end-to-end building lifecycle (Why, What and How), and who thrives in the 0-1 environment and knows how to move a small team ...

Sanmina Corporation has facilities strategically located in key regions throughout the world. Sr. Product Engineering Supervisor Job Purpose As the Sr. Product Engineering Supervisor, you will lead ...

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Showing results 1-20

Product Engineering information

See California salary details

$52.3K

$142.2K

$202.3K

How much do product engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for product engineering in California is $142,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,800.00 and $202,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by product engineers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Product engineers often work closely with design, manufacturing, and marketing teams, which can present challenges such as aligning diverse priorities, managing timelines, and ensuring clear communication. Balancing technical feasibility with customer requirements and business goals requires strong collaboration and problem-solving skills. Successfully navigating these challenges can lead to more innovative products and a smoother development process.

What is product engineering?

Product engineering is the process of designing, developing, testing, and refining products from initial concept to final production. It involves a multidisciplinary approach that combines engineering principles with market requirements to create products that are functional, cost-effective, and manufacturable. Product engineers work closely with designers, manufacturers, and other stakeholders to ensure the product meets both technical specifications and user needs. The goal is to deliver high-quality products efficiently while managing factors such as cost, performance, and reliability.

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

To thrive as a Product Engineer, a solid background in engineering principles, product design, and manufacturing processes is essential, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and quality assurance systems is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and communication skills help stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative, reliable products and ensuring successful collaboration from concept to production.

What is the difference between Product Engineering vs Software Engineering?

AspectProduct EngineeringSoftware Engineering
FocusDesigning, developing, and managing specific products from concept to deploymentDeveloping and maintaining software applications and systems
SkillsProduct lifecycle management, cross-functional collaboration, user experienceProgramming, system architecture, coding best practices
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams with product managers, designers, and engineersDevelopment teams focused on coding, testing, and deployment
CertificationsProduct management certifications (e.g., PMP, Agile)Software development certifications (e.g., Microsoft, AWS)

Product Engineering involves creating and managing specific products, emphasizing user needs and product lifecycle. Software Engineering focuses on coding and system development. Both roles often collaborate but serve different aspects of product creation and maintenance.

Infographic showing various Product Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,185 per year, or $68.4 per hour.
Product Engineering Lead

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

At Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company (EBAD), we believe that our strengths are built on our most important resource - our people. Join EBAD and you'll be a part of a team who creates cutting edge technology that will blast us into the future. No other company can match the innovative energetic solutions that we provide. At EBAD you will actively contribute to successful missions putting men, women and satellites into space, and protecting our armed service men and women around the world. If this is the culture and work environment you are seeking, then EBAD is the place for you!

Job Description

The Product Engineering Lead is a great opportunity for an experienced engineer with technical, people, and process improvement skills to grow as a leader into a new role and gain new experiences! You will manage a talented team, own a product line, provide exceptional technical expertise, and become an intricate component of our continued business growth.

Responsibilities:

The Product Engineering Leader will be responsible for leading a team of Product Engineers supporting the Energetic Assemblies Value Stream. The Product Engineering Lead has the following main areas of responsibility:

  • Drive and support execution of your team's projects in all areas:
    • Mentors on and leads implementation of lean manufacturing processes
    • Advocates for design for manufacturability on development programs
    • Supports risk assessments and mitigation plans, TDP reviews, design reviews, bid and proposal activities, problem solving and failure investigations
  • Complete ownership of technical aspects of product lines assigned
  • Work with the Production Manager to assign and prioritize work
  • Drive continuous improvement activities including lean cell conversion, SPC implementation and SMED
  • Support customer interface activities, problem resolution, and employee relations
  • Manage and grow your team's talent and capabilities to align with current and future company needs
  • Facilitate a successful team-based organization

Requirements:

  • BS/MS in an engineering discipline, preferably Mechanical or Manufacturing
  • Minimum of 3 to 5 years of manufacturing or project experience required.
  • Fundamental knowledge of root cause/corrective and preventative action and the ability to walk project teams and customers through the analysis
  • Problem solving/root cause analysis, leadership of multi-function technical teams, project management, technical writing and cost estimating experience
  • Background in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement and strong problem solving skills.
  • Knowledge of explosive material ordnance devices and/or missile/launch vehicle systems as well as experience with developing manufacturing processes is beneficial.
  • Must have or be able to obtain a U.S Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance and be capable of working on U.S. DoD and ITAR restricted products.

Compensation:

Salary Range: $120,000 - $150,000 per year. Salary is determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.