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Electric Utility Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Power Systems Engineer

Irvine, CA Ā· On-site

$65 - $108/hr

The ideal candidate would be an experienced electric utility engineer or electrical consulting engineer looking to apply his or her power system engineering skills to the rapidly growing ETAP ...

New

Senior Electrical Engineer

Anaheim, CA Ā· On-site

$133K - $200K/yr

Lead and participate in the development of the electric utility's multiyear plans; direct and ... Review and approve plans of consulting engineers and contractors; make technical engineering ...

The ideal candidate would be an experienced electric utility engineer or electrical consulting engineer looking to apply his or her power system engineering skills to the rapidly growing ETAP ...

The ideal candidate would be an experienced electric utility engineer or electrical consulting engineer looking to apply his or her power system engineering skills to the rapidly growing ETAP ...

The ideal candidate would be an experienced electric utility engineer or electrical consulting engineer looking to apply his or her power system engineering skills to the rapidly growing ETAP ...

The ideal candidate would be an experienced electric utility engineer or electrical consulting engineer looking to apply his or her power system engineering skills to the rapidly growing ETAP ...

Showing results 21-40

Electric Utility Engineer information

See California salary details

$34.5K

$95.5K

$164.8K

How much do electric utility engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for electric utility engineer in California is $95,512.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $116,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an electric utility engineer?

Electric Utility Engineers are professionals who design, develop, maintain, and improve electrical systems used by utility companies to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity. They work on power plants, substations, transmission lines, and distribution networks to ensure reliable and efficient delivery of electricity to consumers. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting system issues, implementing safety standards, and integrating new technologies like renewable energy sources into existing grids.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electric utility engineer?

To thrive as an Electric Utility Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, power systems analysis, and a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, PSS®E, SCADA systems, and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license are typical technical requirements. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help you excel when working with cross-functional teams and interpreting complex data. These competencies ensure safe, reliable, and efficient power delivery, which is critical for meeting regulatory standards and serving community needs.

What are some common challenges electric utility engineers face when working on grid modernization projects?

Electric Utility Engineers often encounter challenges related to integrating new technologies, such as smart grids and renewable energy sources, into existing infrastructure. These projects require balancing system reliability, regulatory compliance, and the need for seamless upgrades. Engineers also work closely with cross-functional teams, including planners and IT specialists, to ensure that modernization efforts meet operational and safety standards. Adapting to rapidly evolving technology and managing project timelines are key aspects of this role.

What is the difference between Electric Utility Engineer vs Power Systems Engineer?

AspectElectric Utility EngineerPower Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, possibly PE licenseBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, often PE license
Work EnvironmentUtility companies, substations, grid managementPower generation, transmission, and distribution projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in utility and grid sectorsIn power generation and transmission industries

Electric Utility Engineers focus on maintaining and improving electrical grid infrastructure within utility companies, while Power Systems Engineers work on designing and optimizing power generation and transmission systems. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in work environments, but their primary focus areas differ within the electrical power industry.

What does an electric utility engineer do?

An electric utility engineer designs, maintains, and operates electrical power systems for utility companies. They analyze grid performance, develop infrastructure projects, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, often using specialized software and tools. Strong technical knowledge and problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

What cities in California are hiring for Electric Utility Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Electric Utility Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Electric Utility Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,512 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Electric Utility ProjectManager

Exponent Inc.

Oakland, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients’ most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.  

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.  

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you’ll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team! 

Key statistics: 

  • 950+ Consultants 
  • 640+ Ph.D.s 
  • 90+ Disciplines 
  • 30+ Offices globally 

Exponent's  Construction Consulting Practice is seeking an Electric Utility Project Manager for our Oakland, CA office. In this role, you will manage complex and large electric transmission projects from pre-construction to close-out, and drive them to on-time and on-budget completion.


  • Planning, executing, and managing projects to meet project schedule, cost, and scope
  • Developing schedules, budgets, and risk management plans
  • Managing schedule and cost performance
  • Managing financial forecasting and reporting cycle timeliness
  • Performing change control and implementing risk mitigations
  • Managing and coordinating with project teams and stakeholders (e.g. utility team members, engineers, contractors, regulatory agencies, environmental, land and permitting, legal, procurement, construction, etc.)
  • Managing and overseeing project cost and schedule control
  • Driving timely progress and clearing obstacles on project activities
  • Overseeing contractor performance
  • Proactively anticipate potential risks and issues and have mitigative and preventative plans in place
  • Preparing and providing reporting and information to project stakeholders and executives

  • B.S. in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering or similar (advanced degree(s) is preferred)
  • 8 plus years of work experience in the electric utility industry (preferred) or heavy industrial fields such as oil and gas, chemicals, petrochemicals etc., in-project/construction management, engineering management, risk management, and/or contractor management role(s)
  • Strong experience in construction project management and project controls
  • Initiative and drive to progress challenging projects independently
  • Well-developed team leadership and stakeholder coordination skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to synthesize complex information and tasks and develop well thought-out plans and responses
  • Ability to manage multiple project scopes and tasks simultaneously
  • Adaptability to function effectively in a dynamic team environment
  • Ability to interact effectively with external clients and internal colleagues
  • Successful client management track record is desired
  • Knowledge of common construction related software including Primavera P6 and Microsoft Office tools is desired

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].


To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:
https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.


Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.


At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients.   #LI-Onsite  


Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Manager level and above total compensation includes base salary, annual bonus, and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.


The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities, which will be assessed during the interview process.


USD $135,000.00 - USD $200,000.00 /Yr.

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:  https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent 

 
Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. 

 
If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com. 


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