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Associate Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Substation Project Engineer

Fresno, CA ยท Hybrid

$115K - $175K/yr

Responsibilities beyond those of associate Project engineer include, but are not limited to, the following: Develop technical studies and reports, and provide guidance to contractors and outside ...

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As an Associate Project Engineer/Manager in Inland Empire, CA you will have an opportunity to work with a multi-disciplinary team on meaningful, landmark projects in the Inland Empire region. As a ...

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Landscape Project Manager

Irwindale, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $155K/yr

This is an excellent opportunity for a current Project Engineer, Assistant Project Manager, or Associate Project Manager, preferably with landscape construction experience, though candidates from ...

Associate Project Manager At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That ...

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Associate Project Engineer information

See California salary details

$41K

$81.6K

$130.3K

How much do associate project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate project engineer in California is $81,554.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $93,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Associate Project Engineers in coordinating with cross-functional teams?

Associate Project Engineers often work with various departments such as design, procurement, and construction. A common challenge is ensuring clear and consistent communication among these teams, as miscommunication can lead to project delays or budget overruns. Additionally, balancing competing priorities and managing timelines requires strong organizational skills. Adapting to different team dynamics and resolving conflicts diplomatically are also important for keeping projects on track and maintaining positive working relationships.

What are Associate Project Engineers?

Associate Project Engineers are entry- to mid-level professionals who assist in planning, coordinating, and overseeing engineering projects. They work under the supervision of senior engineers or project managers, helping to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documentation, monitoring project progress, conducting site inspections, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. This role serves as a foundational step for engineers seeking to advance to more senior project management or technical positions.

What does an associate project engineer do?

An associate project engineer supports project managers by assisting with planning, coordination, and execution of engineering projects. They often handle tasks such as preparing reports, monitoring schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, typically using tools like AutoCAD or project management software. This role requires strong communication skills and a basic understanding of engineering principles and construction processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Project Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Project Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, project management fundamentals, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and possibly an EIT certification is often expected. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively coordinate with cross-functional teams and manage project tasks. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring projects are executed efficiently, on schedule, and within budget.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, and software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. These roles typically require specialized knowledge, leadership responsibilities, and often involve working in high-demand industries or managerial positions.

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

AspectAssociate Project EngineerProject Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certifications preferredBachelor's degree in engineering; often more experience and certifications
Work EnvironmentSupport role in construction or engineering projects, often under supervisionLead role in planning, coordinating, and executing projects
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in construction, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering firmsUsed across similar industries, often with more responsibility

The main difference between an Associate Project Engineer and a Project Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The Associate typically supports project activities and gains experience, while the Project Engineer manages project execution. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the Project Engineer holds a more senior position with greater accountability.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most engineering roles do not reach a $500,000 annual salary, some senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn this level of compensation, often including bonuses and stock options. High earnings typically require advanced certifications, leadership roles, or working in high-demand industries and companies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Project Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Project Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Project Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Project Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Project Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,554 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Substation Project Engineer

Substation Project Engineer

PG&E Corporation

Fresno, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$115K - $175K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Requisition ID # 171545 

Job Category: Engineering / Science 

Job Level: Individual Contributor

Business Unit: Strategy & Growth

Work Type: Hybrid

Job Location: Fresno

Department Overview

The hardworking coworkers of Electric Engineering ensure all manners of electric engineeringโ€”including electric standards and process safety, electric design engineering, instrumentation testing and controls, undergrounding, electric regulatory compliance and electric investment planningโ€”are in place to safely enable a strategic and stable workplan for our Electric Operations partners. Our organization is accountable for program planning, financial budgeting, and project execution and delivery of all electric engineering projects. Electric Engineering is comprised of approximately 2,000 coworkers.

 

Position Summary

This position is represented by Engineers & Scientists of California (ESC), subject to collective bargaining.

This is a journey-level project engineer job that requires mastery of the Associate level engineer skills and duties and is responsible for leading the engineering and design of more complex projects. Uses independent judgment in applying engineering principles, working with minimal supervision. Works with engineers, project managers, construction personnel, and other business partners in assessing project needs. Responsibilities beyond those of associate Project engineer include, but are not limited to, the following: Develop technical studies and reports, and provide guidance to contractors and outside vendors.

This position is hybrid, working from your remote office and your assigned work location based on business need. The assigned work location will be within the PG&E Service Territory

PG&E is providing the salary range that the company in good faith believes it might pay for this position at the time of the job posting. This compensation range is specific to the locality of the job.  The actual salary paid to an individual will be based on multiple factors, including, but not limited to, specific skills, education, licenses or certifications, experience, market value, geographic location, collective bargaining agreements, and internal equity.

The annual salary range is:

CA Minimum, $115,128

CA Maximum, $175,080

Job Responsibilities

  • Presents findings to internal organizations, contractors and outside vendors.
  • Provides technical expertise and performs engineering analyses, studies, and develops conceptual designs.
  • Assists in root cause analysis.
  • Develops, evaluates, and recommends alternative project proposals.
  • Conducts walkdowns and design review meetings.
  • Participates in the development of effective restoration plans.
  • Prepares written technical documents such as design criteria, specifications, and reports.
  • Solicits, prepares, and evaluates contracts and proposals from engineering consultants. Reviews consultant contracts for technical compliance.
  • Interprets and applies applicable codes and regulations.
  • Provides guidance to design and contractor team members, and reviews design and technical documents.
  • Provides technical expertise and performs engineering analyses, studies, and develops conceptual designs.
  • Approves reports, new drawings, and revisions to existing drawings for projects.
  • In emergencies, promptly responds to facility failures.
  • Represents PG&E to government bodies as required for assigned projects.
  • Responds, in emergencies, to facility failures.
  • Reviews consultant contracts for technical compliance.
  • Solicits, prepares, and evaluates contracts and proposals from engineering consultants.
  • Resolves problems of moderate scope, typically requiring standard solutions.
  • Assignments typically require standard solutions.
  • Under general direction, independently plans work to meet assigned objectives; progress is reviewed periodically for technical accuracy and adequacy in process and upon completion.
  • External contacts are primarily coordinating with contractors and vendors. Internal contacts are with clients and project team members.
  • May guide the work of less experienced team members.
  • Exchanges information with others outside the team.
  • May partner to solve problems or explore alternative solutions.
  • Capable of coordinating with project team and has basic understanding of the roles and responsibilities of project managers. Able to work with limited supervision and guidance to meet project commitments.
  • Able to work with internal and external customers and suppliers.
  • Able to understand and implement the technical requirements of interfacing engineering disciplines.
  • Demonstrates informed judgment when making decisions and recommendations.
  • Uses judgment in applying engineering principles and techniques to determine cost effective and practical solutions.
  • Ability to manage and complete several projects concurrently, depending on scope and complexity.
  • Interprets applicable codes, industry standards and regulations and educates others.
  • Can provide thorough analysis of issues and justification of recommendations.
  • Takes ownership of problems and their solutions.

Qualifications

Minimum:

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited curriculum in the US or the equivalent from outside the US
  • 3 years of cumulative experience in power system engineering and design

Desired:

  • Experience in substation engineering and design
  • Experience in project management
  • California PE license