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Energy Systems Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

EMCOR Group Inc

Mesa Energy Systems, Inc.

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$71 - $85/hr

... energy solutions. Our integrated, single-source solutions include turnkey in-house capabilities ... The Systems Engineer III will coordinate control system planning, installation, programming, and ...

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All JobsEnergy Systems Engineering JobsEnergy Systems Engineering Jobs in California

Energy Systems Engineering information

See California salary details

$59.7K

$140.2K

$193.4K

How much do energy systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for energy systems engineering in California is $140,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,500.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an energy systems engineer?

An Energy Systems Engineering job involves designing, analyzing, and optimizing energy systems to improve efficiency, sustainability, and reliability. Engineers in this field work with renewable and conventional energy sources, energy storage, and grid integration. They may be involved in energy policy, system modeling, and implementing new technologies. Their goal is to create cost-effective and environmentally friendly energy solutions for industries, utilities, and communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an energy systems engineer?

To thrive as an Energy Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, renewable energy technologies, and energy management principles, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with simulation software such as MATLAB, HOMER, or ETAP, as well as certifications like Certified Energy Manager (CEM), are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are key soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for designing, optimizing, and implementing efficient energy systems that meet industry standards and sustainability goals.

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

Energy Systems Engineers can pursue a variety of career paths, progressing into roles such as senior engineer, project manager, systems architect, or consultant as they gain experience and expertise. Many professionals in this field also specialize further in areas like renewable energy integration, smart grid technologies, or energy policy. Advancement often comes with taking on more complex projects, managing multidisciplinary teams, and obtaining advanced certifications. Organizations frequently support ongoing professional development, allowing engineers to expand their technical and leadership skills. This field offers dynamic growth as demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to rise.

What can I do with a degree in energy systems engineering?

A degree in energy systems engineering prepares individuals for roles such as energy analyst, renewable energy engineer, power systems engineer, or energy project manager. These positions involve designing, analyzing, and optimizing energy systems, often requiring knowledge of thermodynamics, electrical systems, and sustainability practices. Certification in relevant tools or standards can enhance job prospects in this field.

What does an energy systems engineer do?

An energy systems engineer designs, analyzes, and optimizes energy systems to improve efficiency and sustainability. They work with power generation, distribution, and renewable energy technologies, often using modeling tools and requiring knowledge of engineering principles and environmental considerations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Energy Systems Engineering jobs in California?

The most popular types of Energy Systems Engineering jobs in California are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Energy Systems Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Energy Systems Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Energy Systems Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Energy Systems Engineering job openings:

Energy Systems Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Energy Systems Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, and 90% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,209 per year, or $67.4 per hour.

Director, Engineering - New Energy Systems

Energy Vault

Westlake Village, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Our Company
Welcome to Energy Vault (NYSE:NRGV), a global energy storage and power infrastructure company focused on owning, operating, and enabling resilient, dispatchable energy assets. 
 
Energy Vault's focus is to deliver reliable, flexible power that supports the evolving needs of modern grids, communities, and large energy users. Since 2024, the Company has centered its strategy on an Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, developing, building, owning, and operating critical energy assets around the world. 
 
Energy Vault operates globally, with headquarters in Westlake Village, California and Lugano, Switzerland, and regional development across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The Company partners with utilities, grid operators, and large energy consumers to deliver infrastructure that strengthens grid reliability, enables renewable integration, and supports long-term energy security. 
 
By combining asset ownership with advanced technologies and integration expertise, Energy Vault is building the next generation of critical energy infrastructure, delivering dependable power when and where it matters most. 
 
Learn more at www.energyvault.com, explore recent updates in our Newsroom, and connect with us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, Vimeo, or YouTube. 
 
Our Values 
We Commit: To Building a Better Future for Earth and All Its Beings.
We Innovate: Cutting Edge Solutions to Accelerate the Unique Energy Aspirations of Our Clients.
We Connect: To Build Genuine Relationships.
We Deliver: Going Above & Beyond by Being Fast & Nimble.
We Lead: With Authenticity and Purpose.

Your Impact as a Director, Engineering - New Energy Systems: 

The Director, Engineering of new energy systems will lead the development and commercialization of next-generation energy systems, including hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, SMRs, linear generators, and thermionic devices. This leader will drive technical strategy, system architecture, and stage-gate development across all aspects of integrated energy systems, helping shape the company's clean energy roadmap from concept through deployment.

Your Mission:
  • Lead engineering development of New Energy Systems with particular focus on hydrogen-based systems, including:
    • Electrolysis (PEM, alkaline, or SOEC)
    • Hydrogen storage (compressed gas, liquid hydrogen, or novel storage media)
    • Fuel cell (PEM, SOFC, or hybrid configurations), linear generators, nuclear, and thermal generators
    • Balance-of-plant (compression, purification, thermal management, controls)
  • Drive the New Energy Systems roadmap, guiding technology from concept through demonstration and commercial deployment.
  • Evaluate emerging generation technologies and products for integration into the company's solution portfolio, including:
    • Technical performance and degradation characteristics
    • Safety and intrinsic hazards
    • Supply chain readiness and scalability
    • Levelized cost of energy (LCOE)
  • Develop and lead stage-gate processes for New Energy Systems, advancing technologies and products from TRL 4-8 and MRL 4-8.
  • Define technical criteria and lead system architecture design, including integration with:
    • Renewable generation (solar, wind)
    • Grid interconnection and microgrids
    • Energy management systems (EMS) and SCADA
  • Support project development and execution, including:
    • Conceptual and detailed design
    • Equipment specification and vendor selection
    • Integration with EPC and construction teams
  • Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards
  • Lead development of product documentation, including:
    • Design basis and system specifications
    • Installation and commissioning procedures
    • Operations & maintenance manuals
  • Collaborate with supply chain and manufacturing teams to industrialize hydrogen and fuel cell systems.
  • Support funding and partnerships, including grants (DOE, CEC), strategic partnerships, and pilot projects.
  • Provide technical support to commercial deployments to ensure performance, reliability, and continuous improvement.
  • Foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, accountability, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.
Your Background:
  • 15 years or equivalent experience with a bachelor's degree in mechanical, chemical, or electrical engineering (or related engineering discipline).
  • 10+ years of experience in managing project engineering and/or delivery of cross-functional teams for hazardous material facilities.
  • 5+ years of experience in teams developing complex and innovative energy solutions.
  • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally, up to 33%.
  • Comfortable thriving in fast-paced, rapid growth environments.
  • A passion for sustainability, our mission, and our vision is a bonus!
  • Must successfully pass a pre-employment background check.
  • Energy Vault participates in E-Verify.
Benefits of Powering the Future with Energy Vault:

  • Annual bonus plan.

  • Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). 

  • 401K employer matching. 

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans for employees and family. 

  • Flexible Spending Account. 

  • Company-paid Life insurance, Short- and Long-term disability insurance. 

  • 8-weeks for Paternity leave. 

  • Generous holiday allowance. 

  • Flexible time off plus sick leave. 

  • Reimbursement for home office equipment, phone, and internet expenses. 

$177,000 - $283,000 a year
The range, $177,000 to $283,000, reflects a total compensation package for this position across all U.S. locations.  
Join Us in Empowering Change 

At Energy Vault we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants. We believe inclusion creates opportunity for collaborative excellence through diversity of thought. We invite individuals of all genders, races, identities, ethnicities, sexual orientations, national origins, abilities, protected veteran status, religions, educational and socioeconomic backgrounds to explore employment with our organization.

Apply now and become a catalyst for change at Energy Vault! 
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