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Electrical Engineering Professor Jobs in California

We are a team of previous Stanford professors, SAIL researchers, Olympiad medalists (IPhO, IOI, etc ... Strong background in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering is a bonus * Comfort working in ...

We are a team of previous Stanford professors, SAIL researchers, Olympiad medalists (IPhO, IOI, etc ... Strong background in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering is a bonus * Comfort working in ...

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Electrical Engineering Professor information

See California salary details

$25.5K

$89.4K

$170.9K

How much do electrical engineering professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical engineering professor in California is $89,361.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,326.00 and $113,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by new Electrical Engineering Professors when balancing teaching and research responsibilities?

New Electrical Engineering Professors often find it challenging to balance the demands of teaching, developing new course materials, and establishing an active research program. Managing time efficiently between lecturing, grading, mentoring students, and writing grant proposals is crucial. Building collaborations with industry and other departments can also require extra effort, but these partnerships help enhance research impact and teaching quality. Seeking mentorship from experienced faculty and using available university resources can help ease the transition and set the stage for long-term career success.

What does an Electrical Engineering Professor do?

An Electrical Engineering Professor teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in electrical engineering, conducts research in areas such as electronics, power systems, or communications, and mentors students in their academic and professional development. They often publish scholarly articles, secure research funding, and collaborate with industry partners. Professors also participate in curriculum development, serve on academic committees, and contribute to the advancement of the electrical engineering field through innovation and leadership.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Electrical engineering professors at top research universities or industry experts with advanced degrees and specialized skills can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000, especially with additional consulting, patents, or administrative roles. High-level executive positions in engineering firms, such as chief engineers or technical directors, may also reach this compensation level, often requiring extensive experience and leadership responsibilities.

What is the difference between Electrical Engineering Professor vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectElectrical Engineering ProfessorElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research institutions, academiaIndustry settings, offices, labs, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education institutions, research organizationsTechnology companies, power utilities, manufacturing firms

Electrical Engineering Professors primarily focus on teaching and research within academia, requiring advanced degrees like a Ph.D. and working in universities. Electrical Engineers work in industry, applying engineering principles to design, develop, and maintain electrical systems, typically holding a bachelor's or master's degree. Both roles share foundational knowledge but differ significantly in work environment and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as an Electrical Engineering Professor, you need an advanced degree (typically a Ph.D.) in electrical engineering or a related field, along with a strong background in research, teaching, and subject matter expertise. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB or Simulink), circuit design tools, and learning management systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, mentorship, and organizational skills set outstanding professors apart by fostering student engagement and collaboration. These skills and qualifications are crucial for advancing knowledge, inspiring students, and contributing to academic research and innovation.

How much money does an engineering professor make?

An electrical engineering professor's salary varies based on experience, education, and institution, but typically ranges from $70,000 to over $150,000 annually. Professors with tenure, research responsibilities, and advanced degrees tend to earn higher salaries, often supplemented by research grants and consulting opportunities.

Can I make 200k as an electrical engineer?

Electrical engineering professors at the university level typically earn salaries below $200,000, though senior faculty or those in high-paying institutions may approach or exceed this amount. Industry electrical engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand sectors such as technology or energy can potentially earn $200,000 or more, especially with bonuses and stock options.

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

Electrical engineering professors typically do not earn $500,000 annually; their salaries usually range from $80,000 to $150,000 depending on experience, institution, and location. High salaries in engineering are more common in industry roles such as senior engineers or executives, especially in specialized fields or management positions. Academic salaries are generally lower but can increase with tenure, research funding, and consulting opportunities.
What job categories do people searching Electrical Engineering Professor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Electrical Engineering Professor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Electrical Engineering Professor jobs? Cities in California with the most Electrical Engineering Professor job openings:
Infographic showing various Electrical Engineering Professor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,361 per year, or $43 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering-Lithium-based Energy Systems

California State University

San Diego, CA • On-site

$94K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 613 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering-Lithium-based Energy Systems
Job no: 553768
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Tenured/Tenure-Track
Location: San Diego - Imperial Valley
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Tenured/Tenure-Track, Full Time, Faculty - Engineering
Description
The San Diego State University (SDSU) Imperial Valley campus seeks to hire a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering with expertise in Lithium-based energy systems to serve at its Imperial Valley campus. Qualified applicants must have expertise in one or more of the following areas: (1) battery management systems and energy management systems for transportation and renewable energy storage applications, (2) advanced power electronics for grid applications and transportation electrification, (3) renewable energy systems grid integration, and (4) big data analytics, forecasting, and artificial intelligence for renewable energy applications. Apply via PageUp by January 31, 2025.
The SDSU Imperial Valley campus (SDSU-IV) is a branch campus with two campuses in the County of Imperial; Calexico and Brawley. SDSU-IV currently enrolls about 1250 juniors, seniors, undergraduate and graduate students, with a student population that is predominantly Hispanic and female. Located 120 miles east of San Diego in an agricultural valley, the Imperial Valley Campus (Calexico campus) is six blocks from California's border with Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico. Our proximity to the Mexican border and close links with Mexican universities in Baja California, many ties to the community, and the cultural diversity of the local population provide substantial opportunities for minority and cross-national research.
SDSU-IV currently offers 22 undergraduate programs, with the three largest being Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Liberal Studies. With its regional focus, responsive curriculum, and strong community engagement, SDSU-IV plays a vital role in driving economic growth and social change in Imperial Valley. Unlike larger institutions with traditional departmental structures, SDSU-IV operates within an interdisciplinary framework. Faculty from different disciplines collaborate closely, sharing office spaces, teaching courses, and engaging in joint research efforts. This position is located at Brawley campus at the new Sciences and Engineering Laboratories. For more information regarding the SDSU Imperial Valley Campus, click here.
Qualifications
Required qualifications by date of application
  • A record of original research / scholarly / creative accomplishments and demonstrated capacity to a) develop a vigorous and independent program of research / scholarship / creative activity, b) teach graduate and undergraduate courses; and c) engage in both campus and professional service activities.
  • Demonstration of past accomplishments and/or future plans in at least two (2) or more of the "Building on Inclusive Excellence" criteria.

Required qualifications by date of hire
  • Terminal degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline, with all degree requirements met.

Preferred qualifications:
  • Demonstrated expertise in the discipline and its methodologies
  • Record of publications, presentations, and/or funding
  • Demonstrated proficiency in interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches
  • Potential for securing extramural funding
  • Preparation for teaching students from diverse backgrounds
  • Ability to direct advanced undergraduate student research
  • Understanding of the mission and goals of the academic unit and SDSU

Application Instructions
Apply via PageUp by January 31, 2025, providing the following materials:
  • Cover letter, including information indicating how the applicant meets or will meet required qualifications, preferred qualifications, and "Building on Inclusive Excellence" criteria
  • Curriculum vita
  • Names and contact information for three references
  • Teaching philosophy statement
  • Research statement

The minimum salary for this position is based on the current CSU salary schedule and may be revised based on contract collective bargaining. The anticipated salary range is from $94,000 to $98,000. Salary placement will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience, and salaries higher than the published maximums may be offered in limited circumstances. San Diego State University offers a rich benefits package that constitutes a major portion of total compensation. For benefits information, click here.
SDSU Values
At SDSU, our diversity gives us power and benefits every single member of our community. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU provides equal opportunity for all in education and employment. We encourage all members of our community to purposefully learn from one another through open and respectful dialogue and responsible engagement. We strongly preserve the right to free expression and encourage difficult conversations that help lead to improved individual and community learning and cohesion.
Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment
All university programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, San Diego State University (SDSU) provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. SDSU complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California's Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.
SDSU is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At SDSU, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all.
As part of its commitment to a safe and equitable "OneSDSU" community, SDSU requires that individuals seeking faculty employment provide at the time of application authorization to conduct background checks if they become a finalist for the position; applications without this authorization will be considered incomplete and not considered. A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed before any candidate can be offered a position with the CSU. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current CSU employees who apply for the position.
Pursuant to Education Code 89521, the California State University requires that employment applicants disclose any final administrative decision or final judicial decision issued within the last seven years determining that the applicant committed sexual harassment. This requirement applies specifically to applicants who meet the minimum qualifications for the Academic or Administrative position they are applying to. Disclosures shall be provided to the San Diego State University Center for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination for further adjudication. Please contact cphd@sdsu.edu.
The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment. SDSU is a Title IX, equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against persons on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, age, disability, pregnancy, medical condition, or covered veteran status.
Advertised: Dec 12 2025 Pacific Standard Time
Applications close:
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California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

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