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Program Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Project Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$146K - $197K/yr

Works with the OoP Chief Program Engineer (CPE) office to lead complex (cross model and/or cross system) Continued Operational Safety Program (COSP) projects across multiple DE disciplines (i.e Mech ...

Works with the OoP Chief Program Engineer (CPE) office as the Responsible Engineer on COSP/SRP projects related to Payloads for OoP aircraft * Organizes design reviews with SMEs, formulates path ...

Works with the OoP Chief Program Engineer (CPE) office as the Responsible Engineer on COSP/SRP projects related to Payloads for OoP aircraft * Organizes design reviews with SMEs, formulates path ...

Senior Project Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

Works with the OoP Chief Program Engineer (CPE) office to lead complex (cross model and/or cross system) Continued Operational Safety Program (COSP) projects across multiple DE disciplines (i.e Mech ...

Senior Project Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

Works with the OoP Chief Program Engineer (CPE) office to lead complex (cross model and/or cross system) Continued Operational Safety Program (COSP) projects across multiple DE disciplines (i.e Mech ...

Senior Project Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$146K - $197K/yr

Works with the OoP Chief Program Engineer (CPE) office to lead complex (cross model and/or cross system) Continued Operational Safety Program (COSP) projects across multiple DE disciplines (i.e Mech ...

Senior Project Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$146K - $197K/yr

Works with the OoP Chief Program Engineer (CPE) office to lead complex (cross model and/or cross system) Continued Operational Safety Program (COSP) projects across multiple DE disciplines (i.e Mech ...

The Program Chief Engineer shares the responsibility for engineering cost, schedule, and technical execution of the program within the Emerging Programs product line. The Chief Engineer reports to ...

The Program Chief Engineer shares the responsibility for engineering cost, schedule, and technical execution of the program within the Emerging Programs product line. The Chief Engineer reports to ...

Mgr- Program Eng

San Diego, CA · On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

As the engineering lead for production activities, this PEM will serve as the technical conscience ... Other program stakeholders for which this technical leader interfaces are the program managers ...

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Program Engineer information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$94.5K

$131.3K

How much do program engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for program engineer in California is $94,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,600.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Program Engineer?

A Program Engineer is a professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating the technical aspects of engineering projects or programs. They work closely with project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure that project requirements are met on time and within budget. Their duties often include planning, design review, risk assessment, and ensuring compliance with technical standards. Program Engineers also help resolve engineering issues and facilitate communication across different teams. This role is common in industries such as aerospace, manufacturing, and technology.

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

To thrive as a Program Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, project management, and systems integration, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project), CAD tools, and industry-specific standards or certifications such as PMP are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills help Program Engineers coordinate teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure programs are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards in a collaborative environment.

How does a Program Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during project development?

Program Engineers frequently serve as the bridge between engineering, product management, and operations teams. They coordinate project timelines, clarify technical requirements, and ensure that all stakeholders are aligned on deliverables. Regular meetings, progress updates, and documentation are standard practices to maintain clear communication and address challenges early. This collaborative approach helps keep projects on track and ensures that engineering solutions meet both technical and business objectives.

What is the difference between Program Engineer vs Software Engineer?

AspectProgram EngineerSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, often with certifications in project management or systems engineeringBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, with programming certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTypically in project-based settings, coordinating multiple engineering disciplinesPrimarily in software development teams, coding, and designing applications
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in engineering firms, tech companies, and industries like aerospace, manufacturingCommon in tech companies, startups, and software development firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in engineering projects, project management, systems integrationFocus on coding, software development, and programming tasks

Program Engineers and Software Engineers share overlapping skills but differ mainly in scope. Program Engineers focus on managing engineering projects and systems integration, while Software Engineers concentrate on coding and software development. Both roles require technical expertise, but their work environments and industry applications vary.

What job categories do people searching Program Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Program Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Program Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Program Engineer job openings:
Senior Project Engineer

Senior Project Engineer

Boeing

Seal Beach, CA • On-site

$146K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 585 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 516 rated manufacturers


Job description

Senior Project Engineer
Company:
The Boeing Company
Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) is looking for a Senior Project Engineer (Level 4) to join our Out-of-Production (OoP) Systems Design Engineering (DE) team based in Seal Beach, CA.
This role is integral to our commitment to safety and compliance with FAA regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of design principles, aircraft performance, and regulatory requirements, ensuring that our aircraft meet the highest safety standards.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Restructure and Chair the Airplane Level Safety Technical Review Board (ALSTRB).
  • Works with the OoP Chief Program Engineer (CPE) office to lead complex (cross model and/or cross system) Continued Operational Safety Program (COSP) projects across multiple DE disciplines (i.e Mech-sys, Payloads, Avionics, ECS, Electrical, Structures, Etc.), Safety and levels of management from kick-off to completion..
  • Create and convey technical presentations for executive review boards.
  • Orchestrate Aircraft surveys and Supplier visits.
  • Represent OoP Design Engineering in Production Phase Out (PPO) work transition to SoCal.
  • Run improvement initiatives.
  • Participates in activities related to certification of Boeing products with regulatory agencies.
  • Willing and able to travel 10% of the time domestically and internationally.

General tasks:
  • Lead, plan, identify and coordinate multiple skilled resources (e.g. internal, external and customers).
  • Track project status and identify help needed.
  • Break statement of work down into executable tasks.
  • Compare actual results to baseline plan to assess project performance, efficiency, productivity, lessons learned and performance metrics.
  • Identify and capture changes to statement of work.
  • Identifies performance metrics.
  • Identify risks, issues, opportunities and corrective actions to improve project or team performance.
  • Work outside of traditional comfort zones where process definition does not exist or is unclear.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement.
  • 9+ years of aerospace industry experience within Mechanical, Structural, Payloads, Mission Systems, or Software Design or Analysis engineering.
  • 5+ years of experience with Boeing commercial aircraft.
  • 2+ years of experience as an engineering line manager and/or engineering program/project manager.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • Formal Project-Engineering or Program-Management education or certification (e.g. PMP).
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience presenting to senior leadership.
  • Strong collaborative skills to deal with multiple team functions.
  • Experience with Service Bulletin releases.
  • Willingness to expand into technical areas without prior experience.
  • Experience with systems engineering practices (safety analysis, requirements definition, risk identification and management, fault tree generation, FMECA, etc.).
  • 1+ years of experience creating standardized documentation and processes.
  • 1+ years of experience mentoring and developing junior Project Engineers.

Conflict of Interest:
Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.
Drug Free Workplace:
Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Pay & Benefits:
At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay range: $146,200 - $197,800
Language Requirements:
Not Applicable
Education:
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent
Relocation:
This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.
Export Control Requirement:
This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Safety Sensitive:
This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.
Security Clearance:
This position does not require a Security Clearance.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Contingent Upon Award Program
This position is not contingent upon program award
Shift:
Shift 1 (United States of America)
Stay safe from recruitment fraud! The only way to apply for a position at Boeing is via our Careers website. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud - Recruitment Fraud Warning
Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
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