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Distribution Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Distribution Engineer III/IV

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $175K/yr

Distribution Engineer III/IV - San Diego, CA (Hybrid 4x in office /1x remote) At NV5, we are a team of talented professionals, engineers, and consultants who are builders, problem solvers, and ...

Overview Distribution Engineer III/IV - San Diego, CA (Hybrid 4x in office /1x remote) At NV5, we are a team of talented professionals, engineers, and consultants who are builders, problem solvers ...

Distribution Engineer III/IV

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $175K/yr

Overview Distribution Engineer III/IV - San Diego, CA (Hybrid 4x in office /1x remote) At NV5, we are a team of talented professionals, engineers, and consultants who are builders, problem solvers ...

The Sr. Engineer, Distribution & OPEX (P3) is a senior individual contributor accountable for improving operational performance across Distribution, Logistics, and Operations. This role focuses on ...

The Sr. Engineer, Distribution & OPEX (P3) is a senior individual contributor accountable for improving operational performance across Distribution, Logistics, and Operations. This role focuses on ...

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Showing results 1-20

Distribution Engineer information

See California salary details

$16

$43

$69

How much do distribution engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution engineer 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 a Distribution Engineer?

A distribution engineer is a type of electrical engineer responsible for the development, installation, testing, and proper usage of electrical power equipment. As a distribution engineer, your job duties include building power distribution systems, performing safety inspections of electrical equipment, and monitoring and documenting the performance of electrical systems. The qualifications to begin a career as a distribution engineer include a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering plus several years of experience working with a variety of electrical power systems and equipment. To succeed in this job, you need to have a mechanical aptitude and strong critical thinking skills.

What are Distribution Engineers?

Distribution Engineers are professionals who design, plan, and oversee the electrical distribution systems that deliver power from substations to homes, businesses, and other end users. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of power lines, transformers, and other infrastructure components. Their work includes system analysis, equipment selection, reliability improvement, and compliance with safety standards. Distribution Engineers often collaborate with utility companies, construction teams, and regulatory agencies to maintain and upgrade electrical grids.

How does a Distribution Engineer typically collaborate with field crews and other departments to ensure reliable power delivery?

Distribution Engineers work closely with field crews, operations, and planning teams to design, upgrade, and maintain electrical distribution systems. They often provide technical support during outages or equipment failures, review field reports, and coordinate with other departments to schedule maintenance that minimizes customer impact. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as the engineer needs to translate technical plans into actionable steps for field personnel and ensure that projects meet safety and reliability standards.

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

To thrive as a Distribution Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering principles, power distribution systems, and typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with software tools such as AutoCAD, GIS, and distribution modeling systems, along with relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, is often required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential for collaborating with teams and addressing client needs. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable delivery of electrical power to customers while meeting regulatory and operational standards.

What is the difference between Distribution Engineer vs Substation Engineer?

AspectDistribution EngineerSubstation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, utility companies, power distribution networksSubstations, power plants, electrical infrastructure sites
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, energy providers, infrastructure firmsUtility companies, electrical infrastructure firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Distribution Engineers focus on designing, maintaining, and improving power distribution systems from substations to consumers. Substation Engineers specialize in the design, operation, and maintenance of electrical substations. Both roles require similar credentials and often work within the same industry, but their focus areas differ within the electrical power infrastructure.

More about Distribution Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Distribution Engineer jobs in California? For Distribution Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distribution Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Distribution Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Distribution Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Distribution Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Distribution Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,375 per year, or $43.4 per hour.
Distribution Engineer III/IV

Distribution Engineer III/IV

NV5

San Diego, CA • On-site, Remote

$145K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 375 rated engineering


Job description

Distribution Engineer III/IV - San Diego, CA (Hybrid 4x in office /1x remote)

At NV5, we are a team of talented professionals, engineers, and consultants who are builders, problem solvers, and champions for both our communities and clients. Our mission is to empower every employee who strives to make a lasting, positive impact for the future of our communities.

Join us and take charge of your career, creating your own growth while building a sustainable legacy for generations to come. As part of our team, you'll discover limitless opportunities to make meaningful contributions while advancing professionally. You'll work with diverse and talented group of individuals committed to making a positive impact on the communities in which we live and work.

As our Distribution Engineer, you will support our Transmission & Distribution electrical design group. You will contribute to teams in the delivery of mechanical systems, electrical systems and substation solutions through planning, engineering, & design. Our Engineers are responsive, proactive, solutions-oriented professional, working collaboratively within a team environment. 

This position is based in NV5’s San Diego, CA office. 

Join us in embracing innovative solutions that drive efficiency and resilience in Power Delivery.


Other Responsibilities include:

  • Follow and be responsive to budgets and schedules; identify departures or issues early to meet client expectations for technical excellence, budget and schedule
  • Acting as the lead engineer on projects or technical project manager. Making important decisions and executing work without the need of oversight.
  • Perform work that involves conventional types of plans, investigations, surveys, structures, or equipment. Will be assigned to project teams and may make major design recommendations
  • Coordinate all design work with other team disciplines (survey, design, engineering, civil)
  • Design, manage, and assist in production of construction documents, including plans, specifications, calculations, and quantity takeoffs
  • Provide quality assurance checks on drawing packages and calculations prepared by others prior to release.
  • Interpret and apply client, company, and industry standards as needed
  • Demonstrate proficient knowledge of appropriate local codes and industry standards
  • Analyze and solve construction and operational problems
  • Assist in the preparation of proposals for new work via scope and fee development

We are seeking the following qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant field such as Civil or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience.
  • MS Degree in relevant field is preferred.
  • Must be familiar with and keep up to date with industry codes and standards (such as GO95, NESC, IEEE, ASCE).
  • 8+ years’ experience in consulting engineering or utility design, Civil Engineering, or Electrical Engineering
  • Excellent knowledge of relevant industry software used for design, modeling and calculations, as well as knowledge of PLS-CADD for appropriate electrical roles

The pay range for this California position is $145,000- $175,000 annual salary; however, base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience of the candidate. Restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. This information is provided per California Senate Bill 1162. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.

NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients, delivering solutions through six business verticals: Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure; Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial Technology. With offices nationwide and abroad, NV5 helps clients plan, design, build, test, certify, and operate projects that improve the communities where we live and work.

As engineers, architects, construction/program managers, environmental professionals and beyond, we play a significant role in shaping our communities through the services we provide. We are looking for passionate, driven individuals to join our team focused on Delivering Solutions and Improving Lives.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US