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Electrical Systems Design Engineer Jobs in California

They will coordinate between the various departments - Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering ... Design of wire harnesses and wire harness installations. * Lead electrical hardware designs that ...

They will coordinate between the various departments - Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering ... Design of wire harnesses and wire harness installations. * Lead electrical hardware designs that ...

They will coordinate between the various departments - Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering ... Design of wire harnesses and wire harness installations. * Lead electrical hardware designs that ...

Systems Design Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$136K - $231K/yr

... Systems Design Engineer will be part of a dynamic, fast pace team developing some of the most challenging laser sources. This is an experimentalist role with experience in designing and building ...

As a Power Systems Design Engineer at Etched, you will be pivotal in designing, selecting, and ... A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field. Advanced degrees or ...

As a Power Systems Design Engineer at Etched, you will be pivotal in designing, selecting, and ... A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field. Advanced degrees or ...

Instrument Systems Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$106K - $145K/yr

... Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering or related discipline2+ years professional experience (or equivalent) in design, development, debug, validation and working with electro-mechanical ...

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Electrical Systems Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$32

$51

$87

How much do electrical systems design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for electrical systems design engineer in California is $51.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.38 and $58.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of an electrical engineer in systems design?

An electrical systems design engineer develops and integrates electrical components and circuits to create functional systems, often using CAD software and simulation tools. They analyze requirements, ensure compliance with safety standards, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver reliable electrical solutions.

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

Electrical Systems Design Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-paying industries such as aerospace, defense, or energy can potentially earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. However, such compensation levels are uncommon and typically require senior roles, specialized expertise, or leadership positions. Most electrical engineers earn significantly less, with median salaries generally below this threshold.

What does an Electrical Systems Design Engineer do?

An Electrical Systems Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and components for various applications, such as buildings, vehicles, or industrial equipment. Their work involves creating detailed schematics, selecting appropriate materials, and ensuring systems comply with safety and industry standards. They often collaborate with other engineers, architects, and project managers to integrate electrical systems seamlessly into larger projects. Additionally, they may troubleshoot issues, optimize system performance, and support installation and maintenance activities.

What is the difference between Electrical Systems Design Engineer vs Electrical Project Engineer?

AspectElectrical Systems Design EngineerElectrical Project Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PMP certification beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, project planningConstruction sites, project management offices
Industry UsageDesigning electrical systems for buildings, infrastructureOverseeing electrical installation projects, ensuring compliance
Common Search/ComparisonFocuses on design and development of electrical systemsFocuses on managing electrical project execution

The Electrical Systems Design Engineer primarily focuses on designing electrical systems, ensuring technical accuracy and compliance. In contrast, the Electrical Project Engineer manages the execution of electrical projects on-site, coordinating teams and resources. Both roles require electrical engineering credentials but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

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

To thrive as an Electrical Systems Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and systems integration, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or Altium), simulation tools, and relevant industry standards or certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and ensuring project requirements are met. These skills are essential for creating safe, efficient, and innovative electrical systems that meet client specifications and comply with regulatory standards.

How does an Electrical Systems Design Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Electrical Systems Design Engineers regularly work alongside mechanical, civil, and software engineers to ensure that electrical systems are seamlessly integrated within larger projects. This collaboration often involves participating in interdisciplinary meetings, reviewing design documents, and coordinating interface requirements. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as changes in one engineering domain can significantly impact the electrical design, requiring prompt adjustments and joint problem-solving.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior electrical systems design engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or large-scale infrastructure. Achieving this level often requires leadership roles, significant project responsibility, and working in competitive markets or executive positions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Electrical Systems Design Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in circuit design, and specialized certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or large-scale energy projects. Senior engineers often work in leadership roles, overseeing complex projects and teams, which contribute to higher compensation.
What are popular job titles related to Electrical Systems Design Engineer jobs in California? For Electrical Systems Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Electrical Systems Design Engineer jobs in CA? For Electrical Systems Design Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Electrical Systems Design Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,279 per year, or $51.6 per hour.
Principal Electrical Systems Design Engineer

Principal Electrical Systems Design Engineer

Epirus

Torrance, CA

$145K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

About Epirus

Epirus is a high-growth technology company developing software-defined high-power microwave (HPM) systems with devastating counter-electronics effects on modern drone threats. The Epirus Leonidas HPM family of products, empowered by innovations in AI and microelectronics, is human safe and cost-effective. Distinguishing itself from lasers, Leonidas excels against drone swarms while also bending the cost curve back in DoD's favor - taking drone defeat costs from millions of dollars per drone to pennies on the dollar.

Job Summary:

The ideal candidate for the position is someone who has experience with power distribution for electrification and can own product development through all stages of conception, prototype, and productization. In this role, you will work closely with a talented engineering team in a fast-paced environment to apply emerging technologies in innovative ways to rapidly produce new products. Own systems integration efforts on High Power Microwave Phased Array system. Architect and implement designs for power distribution, communications, safety, and other system electrical needs. This position will report to the Senior Manager of Electrical Engineering.

Responsibilities:
  • Power Budgets: Develop system-level power budgets, and coordinate requirements with subsystem design teams.
  • System Integration: Lead the design and integration of the power electronics subsystems of large-scale phased arrays from prototype development to full-scale production.
  • Standards and Best Practices: Define the organizational standards for high voltage safety and best practices and lead the team through safety checks at key integration milestones.
  • Technical Specifications: Define and refine technical requirements and specifications for High Power Microwave system components and overall architecture.
  • Prototyping and Design: Design and prototype critical power electronics subsystems, with an emphasis on prime power distribution and conversion.
  • Hands-On Development: Engage in hands-on activities such as wiring, testing, and debugging high power phased array systems.
  • Supplier Coordination: Collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers on component design, testing, and evaluation to meet system requirements.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Degree in one of the following: Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering
  • 8+ years of industry experience, preferably spanning the entire product lifecycle (concept to field deployment). Advanced degrees might be used in place of years of experience.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to articulate and defend technical decisions, with clear written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledgeable with Jira/scrum best practices
Preferred Skills and Experience:
  • Battery: Experience implementing high-voltage power distribution and battery systems.
  • Prime Power: Experience designing and implementing both three-phase AC and high-voltage DC power subsystems for directed energy systems.
  • Communication Protocols: Familiarity with communication protocols relevant to phased array systems (e.g., CAN, Ethernet, etc.).
  • Standards Knowledge: Knowledge of applicable industry standards (e.g., MIL-STD, IEC standards).
  • PCB Design: Proficiency in PCB schematic design and test.
  • Harness Design: Proficiency in standard practices and design rules for high voltage/high power wiring and harness design.
  • DFMEA Process: Experience with Design Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (DFMEA) for identifying and mitigating potential system failures.
  • Aerospace/Defense experience and/or military experience preferred, or experience in Directed Energy or a similar industry (e.g. Aircraft Power, Radar Power Systems, Laser Systems, Automotive / Electric Vehicle Power).
  • Project Management: Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects effectively. Knowledge of project management software such as MS Project or Smartsheet.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US Clearance, US citizenship is required to obtain a US Clearance
Additional Requirements:
  • Ability to travel on an occasional basis

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

  • To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.  

People are the most important part of Epirus – and always come first. We don't believe in the word impossible and are always asking "why not" as work to usher in a new paradigm of power efficiency. Our fast-growing team is agile, creative, and innovative. We support a culture of constant learning and sense of belonging among our team members and know that mentorship matters. We embrace diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and beyond. To deliver on our mission, we are always looking for problem solvers, changemakers and innovators to join our fast-growing team.

As required by the Equal Pay Transparency Act, Epirus provides a reasonable range of minimum compensation for roles that may be hired. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, and specific office location.
For the state of California only, the range of starting pay for this role is:
$178,600—$215,800 USD