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Electrical Engineer Contractor Jobs in Washington

Electrical Engineer II

Halethorpe, MD ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

You will collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and field personnel to deliver high ... As an Electrical Engineer II, you will assist in the development of electrical system designs and ...

This role will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams, contractors, and government stakeholders to support the planning, installation, maintenance, and modernization of electrical ...

Electrical Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$150K - $165K/yr

This role will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams, contractors, and government stakeholders to support the planning, installation, maintenance, and modernization of electrical ...

This role will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams, contractors, and government stakeholders to support the planning, installation, maintenance, and modernization of electrical ...

Electrical Engineer

Silver Spring, MD ยท On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Interaction with clients, contractors, and engineers from other disciplines * Serve as a technical mentor for less experienced electrical staff * Assist in business development activities such as ...

... contractors. M&J Engineering is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater, water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental ...

... contractors. M&J Engineering is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater, water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental ...

... contractors. M&J Engineering is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater, water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental ...

Description Electrical Engineer Role Description: Huitt-Zollars has an exciting full-time ... contractors, and consultants and clients. * Perform electrical system planning including electric ...

Electrical Engineer Role Description: Huitt-Zollars has an exciting full-time opportunity for a ... contractors, and consultants and clients. * Perform electrical system planning including electric ...

Description: Electrical Engineer Role Description: Huitt-Zollars has an exciting full-time ... contractors, and consultants and clients. * Perform electrical system planning including electric ...

Electrical Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

Electrical Engineer Gromelski and Associates, Inc. (GAI) partners with prime contractors to provide professional services. Key service areas include Engineering Design and Documentation; Software ...

Electrical Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

The successful candidate will work as a member of a government contractor team conducting reverse ... Provides professional electrical engineer inputs on infrastructure design, construction ...

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Showing results 1-20

Electrical Engineer Contractor information

See Washington salary details

$57.2K

$125.8K

$190.3K

How much do electrical engineer contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical engineer contractor in Washington is $125,821.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $149,500.00 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.

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

Electrical engineers can potentially earn $500,000 annually, primarily through senior roles, management positions, consulting, or working in high-demand industries such as power, aerospace, or technology. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, specialized skills, and sometimes working as an independent contractor or in leadership roles. Such high salaries are uncommon for entry-level or standard engineering positions.

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.

Can an electrical engineer work in construction?

Yes, electrical engineers can work in construction, where they design, plan, and oversee electrical systems for buildings and infrastructure projects. They often collaborate with construction teams, use tools like AutoCAD, and may require certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure to ensure compliance with safety and building codes.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior electrical engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, energy, or technology. These roles often require leadership responsibilities, project management, and proficiency with advanced tools and software.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced electrical engineers working in specialized fields such as power systems, aerospace, or consulting can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, bonuses, and profit sharing. Such compensation typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often leadership responsibilities or entrepreneurial ventures.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Electrical Engineer Contractor jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Electrical Engineer Contractor job openings:
Infographic showing various Electrical Engineer Contractor job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,821 per year, or $60.5 per hour.
Design Project Manager (Electrical Engineer)

Design Project Manager (Electrical Engineer)

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

Oak Hill, VA โ€ข On-site

$119K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Compensation Grade:

S22

Salary Range:

$119,280.00-$172,955.00

Opening Date:

July 14, 2026

Closing Date:

Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

As a Design Project Manager - Electrical Engineer, you will provide technical guidance and manage a wide range of electrical projects at the Airports Authority.
Serves in the Design Department in the Office of Engineering at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and at the Dulles Toll Road.
Serves as a Subject Matter Expert and focal point for major electrical engineering designs and program management of projects under the Capital Construction Program (CCP) and Capital Operating Maintenance Investment Program (COMIP)

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Manages designs for projects and studies involving systems for medium and low voltage power distribution; airfield, ramp, parking lot, and roadway lighting; emergency and standby building power and lighting; and control and fire alarms.

Establishes electrical aspects of Airports Authority design guidelines with input to the Authority's Design Manual.

Reviews the work of design consultants and A/E firms and monitors electrical engineering aspects of the Capital Construction Program (CCP), and tenant projects at DCA and IAD.

Consults with engineers, management officials, and others, both within and outside the Airports Authority, on electrical engineering aspects of projects and provides technical direction.

Establishes requirements for system and facility studies and designs, including analyses of electrical system design criteria, functional requirements, performance characteristics, calculations, schematics, specifications, and cost estimates.

Acts as project manager to develop and implement plans for assigned electrical design projects.

Acts as a Contracting Officer's Technical Representative (COTR) for managing consultants and A/E contractors. Participates in technical evaluation panels for design and construction contracts and assists in selection.

Provides construction administration (CA) services in collaboration with the Engineer of Record (EOR) for assigned electrical projects, including responding to requests for information (RFIs), reviewing contractor submittals and shop drawings, conducting site visits to verify conformance with contract documents and design intent, witnessing acceptance and commissioning testing, evaluating change order requests, and reviewing record drawings and closeout documentation.

Coordinates with or responds to other engineers, contractors, vendors, and stakeholders to plan work, discuss technical and operational problems.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Six years of progressively responsible experience in designing and/or managing electrical engineering projects and a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related discipline. A master's degree may substitute for two years of experience.

Comprehensive professional knowledge of the principles and practices of electrical engineering and ability to apply it to serve as the focal point and Contracting Officer's Technical Representative on a full range of electrical design and construction programs and projects, including low and medium voltage distribution and airfield lighting systems.

Knowledge of related fields (e.g., fire detection design engineering, the construction industry, etc.) and ability to apply it to identify electrical implications and provide advice on processes, materials, and equipment during planning, design, repair and construction.

Knowledge of key regulatory requirements (e.g., power and lighting standards, building codes, NFPA codes) and ability to apply codes and standards to ensure regulatory compliance on electrical engineering projects.

Skill in administering engineering and construction consulting contracts and ability to serve as a project manager and COTR, including skill in reviewing proposals and work products of consulting engineers, contractors, vendors, and supporting in-house personnel.

Skill in applying electrical inspection and testing techniques.

Ability to speak and write effectively.

Skill in using a computer and office suite software, with emphasis on using a project management information system and other engineering software.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience managing electrical engineering projects and contracts in an airport and/or active campus environment.

Experience managing fire alarm system projects and contracts.

Experience using Bluebeam software.

Licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. State or Territory.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED

A state driver's license in good standing.

NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS

Operates vehicle landside and airside (requires AOA permit).

Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quantity, quality, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors.

May be required to work nights and weekends depending on project schedules and airport operations.

Subject to adverse weather conditions and exposed to dirt, grease, loud noise, and potential hazards common to the airport environment and construction industry. Wear personal protective gear, as necessary. Knowledge of Lockout and Tagout procedures and Confined Space Entry procedures.

WHAT WE OFFER

A career with the Airports Authority comes with more than just a paycheck; it offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family's health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; well-being resources; health savings and flexible spending accounts; pension and retirement plans; and ongoing training and development opportunities. Discover more about our benefits packagehere.

A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.