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Electrical Engineer Contractor Jobs in California

Electrical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$107K - $155K/yr

... contractors, preparing design calculations, leading the development of construction packages ... Evaluates, selects, specifies, and engineers all electrical engineered systems or products for a ...

Job Title: Electrical Engineer Department: Engineering FLSA : Exempt Location: San Diego, CA ... Liaising with clients and contractors * Attending meetings on site * Designing and conducting tests

Electrical Engineer

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$116K - $175K/yr

... contractors, preparing design calculations, development of construction packages (drawings and ... Understanding of electrical engineering concepts and ability to effectively communicate ideas to ...

Electrical Engineer

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$116K - $175K/yr

... contractors, preparing design calculations, development of construction packages (drawings and ... Understanding of electrical engineering concepts and ability to effectively communicate ideas to ...

Showing results 41-60

Electrical Engineer Contractor information

See California salary details

$49.8K

$109.6K

$165.8K

How much do electrical engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical engineer contractor in California is $109,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $130,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an electrical engineer contractor do?

An Electrical Engineer Contractor is a professional who designs, installs, maintains, and supervises electrical systems on a contract basis, rather than as a full-time employee. They may work on projects such as building wiring, power distribution, lighting, and control systems for commercial, industrial, or residential clients. These contractors are responsible for ensuring all work complies with safety codes and client specifications, often collaborating with architects, project managers, and other engineers. Their role can also include troubleshooting electrical issues and providing cost estimates for projects.

What are some common challenges faced by electrical engineer contractors when managing multiple projects?

Electrical Engineer Contractors often juggle several projects simultaneously, which can present challenges such as coordinating schedules, ensuring compliance with varying client requirements, and adapting to different site conditions. Effective communication and time management are critical, as contractors must collaborate with clients, architects, and construction teams to keep projects on track. Additionally, staying updated on local codes and safety regulations is essential to prevent delays and maintain quality standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electrical engineer contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electrical Engineer Contractor, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, project management, and relevant licensure such as a Professional Engineer (PE) certification. Familiarity with CAD software, electrical design codes (like NEC), and project management tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and client management skills set exceptional contractors apart. These competencies ensure safe, compliant, and efficient project delivery, meeting client specifications and industry standards.

What is the difference between Electrical Engineer Contractor vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectElectrical Engineer ContractorElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically holds a Professional Engineer (PE) license, may be self-employed or work for contracting firmsUsually requires a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, PE license preferred for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentWorks on project-based contracts, often on-site at client locations or construction sitesWorks in offices, laboratories, or on-site, involved in design, analysis, and testing
Employer & Industry UsageHired by clients or firms for specific projects, common in construction and consultingEmployed by companies, government agencies, or as freelancers in various industries

Electrical Engineer Contractors focus on project-based work, often self-employed or contracted by firms, with a strong emphasis on on-site and construction projects. Electrical Engineers typically work in design, analysis, and testing within corporate or government settings. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment type and work environment.

What cities in California are hiring for Electrical Engineer Contractor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Electrical Engineer Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Electrical Engineer Contractor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,636 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Electrical Engineer

Trident Maritime Systems

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Trident Maritime Systems rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title: Electrical Engineer
Department: Engineering
FLSA: Exempt
Location: San Diego, CA
RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide Electrical Engineering support to Trident Maritime System's Product Groups and to the Engineering Department as a whole. The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
Design, develop and maintain electrical control systems and/or components to required specifications, focusing on economy, safety, reliability, quality and sustainability.
Provide concept and detail design, implementation, testing and handover support.
Possess the technical knowledge, be able to project manage and multitask.
Possess commercial awareness such as team leadership or management skills, are required as careers progress.
Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary project team, which is likely to include engineers from other specialist areas, marketing and sales staff, manufacturers, suppliers, and technicians.
Ability to work at every stage of product design and development. The nature of the work varies according to product or system requested but the range of activities common to many projects is likely to include:
  • Identifying customer requirements
  • Designing systems and products
  • Reading design specifications and technical drawings
  • Researching suitable solutions and estimating costs and timescales
  • Working to IEEE, ABS, Lloyd's Register and other electrical and marine standards
  • Liaising with others in the design team
  • Liaising with clients and contractors
  • Attending meetings on site
  • Designing and conducting tests
  • Recording, analyzing and interpreting test data
  • Proposing modifications and retesting products
  • Qualifying the final product or system
  • Servicing and maintaining equipment
  • Preparing product documentation, writing reports and giving presentations

REQUIREMENTS
    • Bachelors degree, 5-8 yrs experience out of college, with electrical designs layout and controls (i.e. one-line diagrams/schematics, sequence of operations, bill of material, network layouts) and software applications
    • Demonstrated knowledge of electrical/electronic control systems
    • Demonstrated technical aptitude
    • Desire marine industry (commercial or defense) experience
    • Ability to make interference control drawings, manufacturing drawings and arrangement and detail drawings
    • Flexible with schedules and work hours (Ability to work overtime is a must)
    • Proof of U.S. citizenship required
    • Undergo and pass a drug screening

As an electrical engineer, you'll be involved with designing, developing and integrating electrical control systems for machinery, equipment and mechanical systems.

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