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Electrical Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview The Electrical Design Manager is responsible for leading and growing the electrical engineering and design department while overseeing the design, coordination, and execution of ...

Electrical Design Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Electrical Design Engineer We are seeking an Electrical Design Engineer to design and develop the next generation of cost-effective AC/DC switching power supplies. This role will be responsible for ...

Salary: $80K-95K DOE Electrical Design Engineer We are seeking anElectrical Design Engineer to design and develop the next generation of cost-effective AC/DC switching power supplies. This role will ...

Electrical Design Engineer At Salas O'Brien, we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. That same passion for making a difference applies not only to our projects, but also to our people.

Electrical Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Prepare electrical schematic designs Design Engineering * Design power single line and riser diagrams * Perform electrical calculations (arc flash, coordination, short circuit, voltage drop, load ...

Own design and prototyping of new electrical hardware * Work with customers to understand end-use applications and challenge requirements as needed * Take full ownership of electrical design for ...

Position :      Electrical Design Engineer Location :      Santa Clara, CA 95054 Duration :      6 Months Job Type :       Temporary Assignment  Work Type ...

Summary The San Diego office has an exciting opportunity for an Electrical Design Engineer with 0-3 years of experience. Our client is an award-winning engineering firm that has been named "Best ...

Summary Are you an Electrical Design Engineer with 24 years of experience in lighting design looking to advance your career? Our client, located in the Long Beach, CA area, is an award-winning ...

Summary The San Diego office has an exciting opportunity for an Electrical Design Engineer with 0-3 years of experience.Our client is an award-winning engineering firm that has been named "Best Place ...

Electrical Design Manager

Fremont, CA · On-site

$134K - $172K/yr

Airswift is looking for an Electrical Design Manager to work for a major O&G company in Freemont, CA, for an initial 6-months assignment. We are seeking an experienced Electrical Design Manager to ...

Summary Are you an Electrical Design Engineer with 2-4 years of experience in lighting design looking to advance your career? Our client, located in the Long Beach, CA area, is an award-winning ...

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Electrical Design information

See California salary details

$50.8K

$99.7K

$146.1K

How much do electrical design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical design in California is $99,748.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $114,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Electrical Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and often a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or EPLAN), simulation tools, and relevant industry standards or certifications like PE licensure is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design of electrical systems that meet project specifications and regulatory requirements.

What is electrical design?

Electrical design refers to the process of planning, creating, and documenting electrical systems for buildings, products, or infrastructure. This includes designing the layout for wiring, circuits, control panels, and other components to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance with codes and standards. Electrical designers use specialized software and technical knowledge to create detailed schematics that guide the installation and maintenance of electrical systems. Their work is essential for the proper functioning and safety of residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

How much money does an electrical designer make?

Electrical designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized electrical designers with certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Salary can also vary based on the complexity of projects and the use of design tools like AutoCAD or Revit.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Electrical engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, primarily through senior roles, management positions, or working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or energy. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes additional certifications or advanced degrees. Most entry- and mid-level electrical engineering roles have lower salary ranges, but high-level positions can reach or exceed this income level.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Electrical Design roles, and how can they be addressed?

Electrical Design professionals often encounter challenges such as managing tight project deadlines, ensuring compliance with constantly evolving codes and standards, and coordinating effectively with multidisciplinary teams. Addressing these challenges typically involves staying updated on industry regulations, leveraging design software for efficiency, and maintaining clear communication with colleagues in architecture, mechanical engineering, and construction. Proactively seeking feedback and participating in regular team meetings can also help in identifying potential issues early and ensuring project success.

How much is an electrical designer paid?

Electrical designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially if they hold relevant certifications or work in high-demand areas.

What do electrical designers do?

Electrical designers develop electrical system layouts, schematics, and specifications for buildings, infrastructure, or equipment. They use design software like AutoCAD or Revit and collaborate with engineers and contractors to ensure safety, code compliance, and functionality of electrical systems throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Electrical Design vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectElectrical DesignElectrical Engineering
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical design, drafting, or related certificationsRequires a degree in electrical engineering, often with professional licensure
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, project planningResearch labs, project sites, technical analysis
Industry UsageUsed in construction, manufacturing, and product developmentApplied across power systems, electronics, and infrastructure

Electrical Design focuses on creating detailed plans and drawings for electrical systems, often using CAD tools. Electrical Engineering involves analyzing, developing, and testing electrical systems and components. While both roles require technical knowledge, Electrical Design emphasizes drafting and planning, whereas Electrical Engineering emphasizes analysis and problem-solving.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Electrical Design jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Electrical Design jobs? Cities in California with the most Electrical Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Electrical Design job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,748 per year, or $48 per hour.

Electrical Design Manager

RimePro Inc

Commerce, CA

$130K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

The Electrical Design Manager is responsible for leading and growing the electrical engineering and design department while overseeing the design, coordination, and execution of electrical systems for multifamily, mixed-use, student housing, senior living, hospitality, and commercial construction projects. This role provides both technical and operational leadership, ensuring high-quality design deliverables while maintaining close collaboration with preconstruction, project management, VDC, and field operations teams.

The ideal candidate is a licensed Professional Engineer with a strong background in design-build electrical engineering and experience leading electrical design teams in a fast-paced construction environment. This position offers the opportunity to build and scale an electrical engineering division while playing a key leadership role in a growing MEP organization.


Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage the electrical engineering and design department, including staffing, workload planning, mentoring, and professional development.
  • Oversee the design and engineering of electrical power distribution, lighting, low-voltage, emergency power, fire alarm, and building systems for commercial and residential construction projects.
  • Provide technical leadership throughout project lifecycles from conceptual design through construction support and project closeout.
  • Collaborate closely with project management, estimating, preconstruction, VDC, and field operations teams to ensure successful project execution.
  • Review and approve electrical calculations, drawings, specifications, BIM models, and engineering deliverables.
  • Establish and maintain engineering standards, quality control procedures, and design best practices.
  • Participate in design-build pursuits, conceptual budgeting, value engineering, and constructability reviews.
  • Coordinate electrical designs with mechanical, plumbing, structural, architectural, and fire protection disciplines.
  • Support field operations by resolving design issues, reviewing RFIs, and assisting with installation challenges.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on design efficiency, standardization, and innovation.
  • Ensure all electrical designs comply with applicable codes, utility requirements, energy regulations, and industry standards.
  • Develop strong relationships with developers, architects, consultants, utility providers, and project stakeholders.
  • Recruit, mentor, and develop engineering talent to support continued departmental growth.

Qualifications
  • Active California Professional Engineer (PE) license required. Electrical PE strongly preferred.
  • Mechanical PE with significant electrical design leadership experience will also be considered.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field required.
  • 8+ years of electrical engineering and design experience.
  • 3–5+ years of leadership experience managing electrical design or engineering teams.
  • Proven experience leading design teams within a design-build contractor, MEP contractor, or EPC environment.
  • Strong experience designing electrical systems for multifamily residential developments.
  • Experience with mixed-use, student housing, senior living, hospitality, and commercial projects preferred.
  • Strong understanding of California Electrical Code, Title 24 requirements, utility coordination, and electrical design standards.
  • Experience coordinating directly with construction operations and field personnel.
  • Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and team-building skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Extensive experience supporting large-scale multifamily and residential developments throughout California.
  • Proficiency with Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Navisworks, and BIM coordination platforms.
  • Experience designing power distribution systems, lighting systems, emergency power systems, EV infrastructure, fire alarm systems, and low-voltage systems.
  • Familiarity with utility coordination, service sizing, load calculations, and electrical system studies.
  • Experience supporting prefabrication, modular construction, and design-build delivery methods.
  • Strong understanding of project budgeting, scheduling, and preconstruction processes.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary coordination meetings and constructability reviews.