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Energy System Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Energy System information

See California salary details

$42.4K

$108.1K

$164.3K

How much do energy system jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for energy system in California is $108,092.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an energy system?

An Energy System job involves designing, analyzing, and optimizing energy production, distribution, and consumption systems. Professionals in this field work with renewable and conventional energy sources to improve efficiency and sustainability. They may be responsible for energy modeling, grid integration, policy planning, or developing innovative technologies. Careers in energy systems span industries such as utilities, government, research, and consulting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the energy system position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Energy Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical, mechanical, or energy engineering with a strong understanding of power generation, distribution, and energy efficiency principles. Proficiency in industry-standard modeling software (like MATLAB, AutoCAD, or HOMER Energy), knowledge of energy management systems (EMS), and relevant certifications such as LEED or CEM are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and effective communication skills are vital for collaborating across multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable energy solutions in a rapidly evolving sector.

What are the typical career growth opportunities for an energy systems engineer?

Energy Systems Engineers typically start with hands-on project roles, focusing on system design, analysis, and optimization for various energy infrastructures. With experience, you can advance to senior engineering, project management, or specialized consulting positions, often overseeing larger projects or leading teams. Many professionals in this field also move into research, policy advisory, or executive roles as the industry evolves toward renewable and smart energy solutions. Continuous education and acquiring advanced certifications can further accelerate your career trajectory. This role offers strong potential for advancement due to the growing demand for sustainable energy expertise.

What are careers in energy system?

Careers in energy systems involve designing, operating, and maintaining energy infrastructure such as power plants, renewable energy installations, and electrical grids. Common roles include energy engineers, system operators, and project managers, often requiring technical skills, relevant certifications, and knowledge of energy management tools. These careers support the development of sustainable and efficient energy solutions.

What are popular job titles related to Energy System jobs in California?

For Energy System jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Energy System jobs?

Cities in California with the most Energy System job openings:

Infographic showing various Energy System job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,092 per year, or $52 per hour.

Sr. Director, BESS & Energy System Solution Development

Qcells

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$214K - $268K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Qcells rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

POSITION DESCRIPTION: 

Qcells North America is seeking a senior engineering leader to build and lead its BESS System Integration Solution development organization. This role owns the end-to-end product development of BESS System and next-generation integrated energy systems — including Gas Turbine (GT), CHP, and fuel cell solutions. The leader will consolidate existing distributed California-based engineering staff into the New Jersey office and drive full organizational build-up. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: 
  • Own the complete product development lifecycle for BESS system 1.0 AC/DC and Gen 2 successors: Concept → Design Freeze → BFQ → GA 

  • Lead and build a ~21-person organization across Product Management (3), SW/EMS Development Management (2), System Integration Design & Engineering (8), SCM/Procurement (4), and Skid Manufacturing Management (3) 

  • Define BESS system architecture: DC Block, AC Block, Skid-integration, 1500V DC bus, PCS/BMS/EMS/thermal/safety system integration standards 

  • Engineer and manage H/W energy system integration solutions spanning GT, CHP, and fuel cell distributed generation in addition to BESS 

  • Lead technical engagement, contract negotiation, and SCM management with all HW vendors (cells, PCS, BMS, cooling, enclosures) 

  • Maintain IRA DCA/FEOC-compliant product BOM and supply chain to preserve ITC 40% eligibility 

  • Coordinate product specifications and technical alignment with Qcells Korea HQ engineering and R&D teams 

  • Drive UL9540, UL9540A, NFPA 855, IEC62619, and other certification programs 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Energy Systems; Master's preferred 

  • 10+ years in BESS system integration product development; 5+ years leading engineering teams 

  • Deep expertise in DC Block / AC Block architecture, 1500V DC bus, PCS selection, BMS/EMS integration 

  • Experience in distributed generation system engineering (GT, CHP, fuel cell) strongly preferred 

  • Hands-on IRA DCA, FEOC compliance, and ITC/PTC incentive structure experience 

  • Procurement, SCM, vendor management, and EPC collaboration experience 

  • 20% travel is required
COMPENSATION: 

In accordance with applicable pay transparency laws, the anticipated annual base salary for this position is: 

  • Zone 1 (Bay Area, NYC): $234,000 – $280,000  

  • Zone 2 (CA, NJ, NY) (posting range): $214,500 – $268,200  

  • Zone 3 (All others): $195,000 – $243,800 

The applicable salary range is based on the employee’s primary work location. Individual compensation will be determined based on qualifications, relevant experience, education, skills, internal equity, and other business-related factors. 

Hanwha Q CELLS America Inc. (“HQCA”) is a Qcells company, one of the world’s largest manufacturers and providers of solar photovoltaic (PV) products and solutions.  Headquartered in Irvine, California, HQCA has been rapidly expanding its business in North America through the expansion of products and solutions, including distributed energy solutions, direct-to-homeowner solar sales and financing, and EPC services.  We provide an opportunity to be part of an exciting and growing world-class global business in an interesting and expanding industry of the future. 

PHYSICAL, MENTAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS: 

To comply with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 the essential physical, mental and environmental requirements for this job are listed below. These are requirements normally expected to perform regular job duties. Incumbent must be able to successfully perform all of the functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.  

Mobility 

Standing 

20% of time  

Sitting 

70% of time  

Walking 

10% of time  

Strength 

Pulling 

up to 10 Pounds  

Pushing 

up to 10 Pounds  

Carrying 

up to 10 Pounds  

Lifting 

up to 10 Pounds  

Dexterity (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) 

Typing 

Handling 

Reaching 

Agility (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, N = Never) 

Turning 

Twisting 

Bending 

Crouching 

Balancing 

Climbing 

Crawling 

Kneeling 


The salary range is required by the California Pay Transparency Act and may differ depending on the location of those candidates hired nationwide. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to, skill set, education, licenses and certifications, essential job duties and requirements, and the necessary experience relative to the job’s minimum qualifications.

*This target salary range is for CA positions only and should not be interpreted as an offer of compensation.

You may view your privacy rights by reviewing Qcells' Privacy Policy or by contacting our HR team for a copy.

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