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Distribution Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Distribution Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$59K - $106K/yr

Independently develop design and construction work packages for moderately complex electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Distribution Engineer

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$59K - $106K/yr

Independently develop design and construction work packages for moderately complex electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Independently develop design and construction work packages for moderately complex electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Distribution Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Detailed design and budgetary estimates. * Equipment specification, proposal evaluation and ... Responsible for distribution design and engineering in client's geographic information systems (GIS ...

Lead team of 5-8 engineers to develop design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Responsibilities * Assist in the preparation and development of distribution voltage construction ... Design aerial path based on field data and engineering best practices. * Ensure that all designs ...

Lead team of 5-8 engineers to develop design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Lead team of 5-8 engineers to develop design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Lead team of 5-8 engineers to develop design and construction work packages for electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with ...

Showing results 21-40

Distribution Design information

See California salary details

$16

$43

$69

How much do distribution design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution design in California is $43.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.42 and $51.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is distribution design?

Distribution design refers to the planning and development of electrical distribution systems that deliver power from substations to homes, businesses, and other end users. Professionals in this field create layouts and specifications for overhead and underground electrical lines, ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance with industry standards. They often work with utility companies, engineers, and regulatory agencies to optimize the distribution network for efficiency and future growth.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in distribution design, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in Distribution Design often encounter challenges such as accommodating complex regulatory requirements, ensuring system reliability, and integrating new technologies like renewable energy sources. Effective management involves staying current with industry standards, collaborating closely with engineering teams, and leveraging specialized design software to streamline workflows. Open communication with utility partners and field crews also helps address issues proactively and ensures designs meet practical and safety requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in distribution design, and why are they important?

To thrive in Distribution Design, a strong background in electrical engineering principles, utility standards, and project management is essential, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Proficiency with CAD software, GIS systems, and utility design tools like AutoCAD or Bentley is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help professionals coordinate with teams and stakeholders. These competencies ensure safe, cost-effective, and reliable design of power distribution systems that meet regulatory and customer requirements.

What is the difference between Distribution Design vs Distribution Engineering?

AspectDistribution Design

AspectDistribution Engineering

Distribution Design focuses on creating and planning electrical distribution layouts, including network topology and component placement. Distribution Engineering involves analyzing, implementing, and maintaining these designs, often including system analysis, troubleshooting, and upgrades. Both roles require similar credentials like engineering degrees and certifications, and they work closely within the utility industry. Distribution Design is more planning-oriented, while Distribution Engineering emphasizes system operation and problem-solving.

What job categories do people searching Distribution Design jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Distribution Design jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Distribution Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,375 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Distribution Engineer

Leidos

San Diego, CA • On-site

$59K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 492 rated business services


Job description

Description

At Leidos, the opportunities are boundless. We challenge our staff with interesting assignments that provide them with an opportunity to thrive, professionally and personally. For us, helping you grow your career is good business.

Leidos is seeking Distribution Engineers in Maui, HI and Oahu, HI who are passionate about electric utility design engineering. We're looking for someone dedicated to ensuring that every project, no matter how simple or complex, is delivered with exceptional quality. You'll work directly with utility clients to maintain Leidos' reputation for excellence while leading a talented team supporting one of the nation's most unique electric utility systems. Your greatest work is ahead!

Location & Relocation

These positions are based on the island of Maui, HI and Oahu, HI. Candidates are expected to relocate to Maui or Oahu to support our local utility customers, projects, and team. We welcome qualified candidates from across the United States and are pleased to offer a competitive relocation package for eligible hires.

As a Distribution Engineer, you can expect to:

  • Independently develop design and construction work packages for moderately complex electrical overhead and underground distribution systems operating from 4kV through 138kV mostly associated with programmatic work such as overloaded transformers, inspection and maintenance, joint use, and inspection reports.

  • Works to achieve day-to-day objectives with the project team.

  • Review work provided by Client and assess requirements of scopes.

  • Assist other technical staff with tasks and assignments.

  • Develop permitting documents for different AHJ’s

  • Coordinate with permit agencies, right-of-way specialists, system owners, field leaders, forestry leaders, and 3rd party owners for joint-owned poles

  • Coordinate across multiple internal areas including Project Managers and Technical Resources.

  • Able to explain technical solutions, practices, and procedures within the organization.

  • Travel to sites/Customer meetings as needed.

  • Perform engineering calculations such as: structural analysis for wood pole loading, guying calculations, specifying conductor sags and tensions for recommended spans, and calculation of voltage drop and flicker.

  • Perform reviews of work by other engineers for submittal to Clients.

  • Provide engineering support during construction, including post-construction reviews to ensure all applicable engineering and construction standards have been met. 

  • Conduct root cause analysis of outages and mitigation using engineering principles and design. 

  • Comply with Leidos and Client Safety requirements as well as design and quality expectations.

What Sets You Apart (Background Requirements):

  • 2+ years of prior relevant experience is required.

  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering discipline (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, or Industrial) from an ABET accredited institution; additional relevant experience/certifications may be considered in lieu of bachelor's degree

  • Experience with NESC Standards, AutoCAD and/or MicroStation, and Bluebeam and/or Adobe.

  • Experience with ESRI and GIS a plus.

  • Experience with distribution design tools such as BOUD, Pole Foreman, Spida-Calc, O-Calc

  • Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) required.

  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills.

  • Willingness to perform both field and office work. 

  • Overnight travel may be required (15-25% travel).

  • Ability to work in outdoor environments.

  • Ability to utilize personal vehicle.

At Leidos, we pride ourselves on being a trusted and technology-focused solutions provider. Our Power Delivery Services Team is the go-to for utilities and mobile operators who need reliable power and telecommunication expertise. We've worked with over 50 investor-owned utilities, over 160 municipals/cooperatives, and we're continuing to expand our reach. Plus, we've got an amazing group of industry-leading construction partners who help us deliver meaningful Energy Delivery Solutions. Our recognition as an industry leader has been confirmed time and time again. Engineering News-Record (ENR) has ranked Leidos among the Top 10 T&D Firms and Top 10 Power Firms.

As a valued team member, you can look forward to a fast paced, diverse work environment and flexible work hours/work arrangements, as well as managers who will encourage career development and growth opportunities, including Professional Engineer License (PE), Project Management Professional (PMP), Leadership training, Formal Mentorship Programs, Management opportunities.
 

PDSDLINE

PowerDelivery

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:July 17, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $59,150.00 - $106,925.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

Securing Your Data

Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system – never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.


What Leidos employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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