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Contract Electrical Engineering Jobs in Riverside, CA

Fortive

Senior Electrical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Additional Engineering & Collaboration Duties * Develop multilevel Bills of Materials (BOMs ... Work with third-party suppliers for technical services, component sourcing, contract manufacturing ...

Fortive

Senior Electrical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$114K - $149K/yr

Additional Engineering & Collaboration Duties * Develop multilevel Bills of Materials (BOMs ... Work with thirdparty suppliers for technical services, component sourcing, contract manufacturing ...

Thales

Principal Electrical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$148K - $181K/yr

Principal Electrical Engineer Irvine, CA (Onsite) Position Summary Thales is looking for a ... Engineering, Industrial Operations, Procurement, NPI teams, development partners, contract ...

Thales

Principal Electrical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$149K - $182K/yr

Principal Electrical Engineer Irvine, CA (Onsite) Position Summary Thales is looking for a ... Engineering, Industrial Operations, Procurement, NPI teams, development partners, contract ...

Accord Technologies Inc.

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Irvine, CA- Onsite Contract/ Fulltime Visa: US C Broad Job Duties: * 10+ Years of professional experience in Design, analyze, and debug analog and digital electrical circuits for motor control and ...

Neon Aerospace

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Irvine, CA

$115K - $150K/yr

Partner with suppliers and contract manufacturers to support prototype builds, first-article ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field preferred; relevant ...

Neon Aerospace

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Partner with suppliers and contract manufacturers to support prototype builds, first-article ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field preferred; relevant ...

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All JobsContract Electrical Engineering JobsContract Electrical Engineering Jobs in Riverside, CA

Contract Electrical Engineering information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$52.7K

$115.9K

$175.3K

How much do contract electrical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract electrical engineering in Riverside, CA is $115,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,600.00 and $137,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges contract electrical engineers face when working with multiple clients simultaneously?

Contract electrical engineers often juggle several projects at once, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Each client may have different expectations, communication styles, and project requirements, so adapting quickly and maintaining clear documentation is essential. Additionally, contract engineers need to stay up-to-date with various industry standards and ensure that their work complies with differing regulations for each client. Successful contract electrical engineers are proactive communicators and skilled at managing shifting deadlines to deliver high-quality results.

What is the difference between Contract Electrical Engineering vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectContract Electrical EngineeringElectrical Engineering
CredentialsTypically requires a relevant degree and professional licensing; often involves freelance or temporary certificationsRequires a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering; licensure (PE) is common for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentProject-based, flexible locations, often remote or on-site at client sitesOffice-based, research labs, or manufacturing facilities; more permanent employment
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, contractors, freelance projects in construction, power, and automationManufacturers, tech companies, utilities, and government agencies

Contract Electrical Engineering involves temporary, project-specific work often with flexible locations, while Electrical Engineering typically refers to full-time roles within organizations. Both roles require relevant credentials, but contract roles emphasize adaptability and freelance work, whereas full-time electrical engineers focus on ongoing development and design within companies.

What are contract electrical engineers?

Contract electrical engineers are professionals who work on a temporary or project-specific basis to design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical systems and equipment. Unlike full-time employees, they are usually hired for a set duration or to complete specific projects, offering flexibility to both employers and engineers. Their work can span industries such as construction, manufacturing, energy, and telecommunications. Contract electrical engineers often bring specialized expertise and can help organizations meet tight deadlines or fill skill gaps without committing to long-term employment.

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

To thrive as a Contract Electrical Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and relevant industry experience, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. Proficiency in CAD software (such as AutoCAD or Altium), simulation tools, and knowledge of electrical codes and standards is crucial, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) being advantageous. Strong problem-solving, time management, and effective communication skills help you excel in client-facing and project-based environments. These competencies are vital for delivering quality results on time, ensuring compliance, and maintaining strong professional relationships while working independently or with diverse teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Electrical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Electrical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA? For Contract Electrical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Electrical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Electrical Engineering jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Contract Electrical Engineering jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Contract Electrical Engineering job openings:
Contract Electrical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Electrical Engineering job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,898 per year, or $55.7 per hour.

Project Engineer Electrical & Instrumentation

Syensqo

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$98K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Syensqo rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 89 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Syensqo is all about chemistry. We're not just referring to chemical reactions here, but also to the magic that occurs when the brightest minds get to work together. This is where our true strength lies. In you. In your future colleagues and in all your differences. And of course, in your ideas to improve lives while preserving our planet's beauty for the generations to come.
Job title: Project Engineer (Electrical & Instrumentation)
Location: Anaheim, CA - Onsite
Position summary: Lead and deliver electrical capital projects from concept through turnover for industrial facilities focused on machine controls, automation, and power distribution. Manage scope, schedule, budget, and risk while coordinating engineering, procurement, contractors, operations, and stakeholders to ensure safe, compliant, and cost-effective execution.
Key responsibilities:
  • Plan, develop, and execute electrical capital projects (new builds, retrofits, upgrades, reliability/improvement projects) for industrial machinery and process lines.
  • Define project scope, budgets, schedules, milestones, and success criteria; maintain and report on project performance (cost, schedule, change control).
  • Deliver detailed technical requirements for machine control systems (PLC/RTU, HMI/SCADA, safety PLCs, VFDs, servo drives), power distribution, motor control centers (MCCs), and field instrumentation.
  • Oversee engineering design review, constructability review, value engineering, and technical compliance with codes (NEC, NFPA 70E, IEC as applicable).
  • Manage procurement and vendor selection for electrical equipment, panels, drives, cables, and instrumentation; review quotes, lead times, and technical submittals.
  • Coordinate contractors, electricians, integrators, and automation vendors; issue work packages, monitor quality, and enforce safety and project standards.
  • Lead commissioning, factory acceptance tests (FAT), site acceptance tests (SAT), functional testing of controls and safety systems, and handover to operations.
  • Identify and mitigate technical, schedule, and cost risks; drive corrective actions and continuous improvement.
  • Prepare and maintain project documentation: specifications, drawings, change orders, work permits, close-out files, and O&M manuals.
  • Communicate project status to stakeholders and senior management; chair project meetings and coordinate interdepartmental interfaces.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety requirements; promote safe work practices.
  • Assist the maintenance staff with problems that occur throughout the facilities.

Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related engineering discipline (or equivalent experience).
  • 7+ years of electrical engineering experience in industrial/manufacturing environments, including 3+ years managing capital projects.
  • Hands-on experience with industrial machine controls and automation: PLC programming and architecture, HMI/SCADA, safety PLCs, drives (VFDs, servo), industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Modbus), and field instrumentation.
  • Strong knowledge of power distribution, motor control, MCC design, grounding, cable routing, and electrical load calculations.
  • Demonstrated project management skills: budgeting, scheduling (MS Project or similar), cost control, procurement, contract management, and change control.
  • Proven experience with commissioning and testing of machine controls, integration with MES/ERP desirable.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience with automation platforms (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider) and SCADA systems.
  • Experience in safety standards and functional safety (ISO 13849, IEC 61508/61511) and NFPA 70E arc flash analysis.
  • Experience working in continuous process, discrete manufacturing, packaging, or heavy industry.

Core skills:
  • Strong technical leadership and decision-making.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management.
  • Vendor and contractor negotiation skills.
  • Risk management and problem solving.
  • Ability to read and produce electrical schematics, P&IDs, control narratives, and wiring diagrams.
  • Proficiency with project software (MS Project, Excel), CAD/Electrical (AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN), and document control systems.

You will get:
  • Competitive salary and benefits package. The U.S. base salary range reasonably expected to be paid for this position is $98,720 to $123,400 per year. Since actual compensation packages are based on a variety of factors unique to each candidate we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted base salary range. Total compensation for this role also includes bonus and/or other incentives.
  • 16, or more, weeks of maternity/paternity and co-parenting leave, according to local regulations
  • Training platform for all employees
  • Free well-being sessions (physical and psychological)

Syensqo Values
At Syensqo, we are scientific explorers pursuing breakthroughs that advance humanity. We value innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to safety and sustainability.
Note:
This job description is a general guideline. Actual responsibilities and requirements may vary based on business needs and specific project assignments. Always ensure alignment with Syensqo's HR policies and local regulations.
About us
  • Syensqo is a science company developing groundbreaking solutions that enhance the way we live, work, travel and play. Inspired by the scientific councils which Ernest Solvay initiated in 1911, we bring great minds together to push the limits of science and innovation for the benefit of our customers, with a diverse, global team of more than 13,000 associates. Our solutions contribute to safer, cleaner, and more sustainable products found in homes, food and consumer goods, planes, cars, batteries, smart devices and health care applications. Our innovation power enables us to deliver on the ambition of a circular economy and explore breakthrough technologies that advance humanity.
  • At Syensqo, we seek to promote unity and not uniformity. We value the diversity that individuals bring and we invite you to consider a future with us, regardless of background, age, gender, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, ability or identity. We encourage individuals who may require any assistance or accommodations to let us know to ensure a seamless application experience. We are here to support you throughout the application journey and want to ensure all candidates are treated equally. If you are unsure whether you meet all the criteria or qualifications listed in the job description, we still encourage you to apply.
  • Syensqo is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.

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