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Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer Jobs in California

Electrical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

The successful candidate will work closely with project managers, engineers, architects, contractors, and other design disciplines to develop coordinated, code-compliant, and constructible electrical ...

Electrical Engineer

Lafayette, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $115K/yr

Interacting with owners, clients, architects, and contractors as needed with verbal and written ... Electrical Engineering Infrastructure Design * Construction Administration and Submittals * Power ...

Electrical Engineer

Lafayette, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Interacting with owners, clients, architects, and contractors as needed with verbal and written ... Electrical Engineering Infrastructure Design * Construction Administration and Submittals * Power ...

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Coordinate with electrical vendors and contractors while operating equipment safely, maintaining an ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.

Electrical Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Regularly exercises independent judgment and discretion regarding matters of significance ... contractors, vendors and suppliers * Review schematics plans and procedures and make ...

Regularly exercises independent judgment and discretion regarding matters of significance ... contractors, vendors and suppliers * Review schematics plans and procedures and make ...

Electrical Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Regularly exercises independent judgment and discretion regarding matters of significance ... contractors, vendors and suppliers * Review schematics plans and procedures and make ...

Electrical Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Regularly exercises independent judgment and discretion regarding matters of significance ... contractors, vendors and suppliers * Review schematics plans and procedures and make ...

Electrical Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Regularly exercises independent judgment and discretion regarding matters of significance ... contractors, vendors and suppliers * Review schematics plans and procedures and make ...

Showing results 21-40

Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer information

See California salary details

$49.8K

$109.6K

$165.8K

How much do independent contractor electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor electrical engineer in California is $109,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $130,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an independent contractor electrical engineer do?

An Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer is a self-employed professional who provides electrical engineering services to clients on a contract basis. They design, develop, and test electrical systems for various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and technology. Unlike full-time employees, independent contractors typically work on short-term or project-based assignments, handling tasks such as circuit design, system integration, troubleshooting, and compliance testing. They must manage their own business operations, including invoicing, taxes, and client relationships. This role offers flexibility but requires strong technical expertise and business skills to succeed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor electrical engineer?

Independent Contractor Electrical Engineers need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, project management, and often a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard design software like AutoCAD and MATLAB, as well as familiarity with relevant codes and optional certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license, is highly valued. Strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help these professionals effectively coordinate with clients and deliver projects independently. Mastering these competencies ensures successful project delivery, client satisfaction, and compliance with technical standards in a self-directed work environment.

Can independent contractor electrical engineers be self-employed?

Yes, independent contractor electrical engineers can be self-employed, working on a project basis or through their own business. They typically handle their own taxes, licensing, and client relationships, and may need relevant certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Self-employment allows flexibility but requires managing business operations and compliance with industry standards.

How much do freelance electrical engineers make?

Freelance electrical engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, specialization, and project scope. Rates can vary from $30 to $150 per hour, with highly skilled engineers or those with niche expertise commanding higher fees. Successful freelancers often work on a project basis, requiring strong technical skills and client management abilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Electrical Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer jobs in California?

For Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,636 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

Electrical Engineer

Legence

San Diego, CA • On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

SC Engineers, a Legence company
SC Engineers, founded in San Diego, California, in 2004, is an industry leader in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) planning and design, energy efficiency, building automation, and total building commissioning. Spanning a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, government, defense, and technology, SC Engineers provides specialized expertise and a collaborative approach to every project, making them an integrated and valued business partner of their clients.
Location: San Diego, California
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Salary Range: $115,000 - $150,000. This role is also eligible for an annual performance based bonus. Bonus eligibility and payout are determined by role, individual performance, and company performance, and are not guaranteed.
Position Summary
We are seeking an Electrical Engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering to support the design of electrical systems for commercial building projects throughout San Diego and Southern California. The successful candidate will work closely with project managers, engineers, architects, contractors, and other design disciplines to develop coordinated, code-compliant, and constructible electrical designs.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Design of electrical power distribution, lighting, lighting controls, grounding, emergency power, fire alarm, and low-voltage systems for commercial buildings.
  • Prepare electrical drawings, plans, schedules, diagrams, and details using Revit and AutoCAD.
  • Prepare electrical specifications.
  • Perform electrical load calculations, voltage drop calculations, lighting calculations, short circuit calculations, and other engineering analyses under the direction of a licensed electrical engineer.
  • Develop single-line diagrams, panel schedules, equipment connection requirements, and electrical room layouts.
  • Coordinate electrical requirements with mechanical, plumbing, structural, architectural, and technology disciplines.
  • Review architectural and engineering drawings to identify electrical design requirements and potential coordination conflicts.
  • Support the selection and specification of electrical equipment, including switchboards, panelboards, transformers, generators, automatic transfer switches, lighting fixtures, and control devices.
  • Assist with compliance reviews for the California Electrical Code, California Building Code, California Energy Code, National Electrical Code, and applicable local requirements.
  • Participate in site visits to document existing conditions, verify electrical systems, and support renovation and tenant improvement projects.
  • Assist with responses to requests for information, submittal reviews, field observations, punch lists, and other construction administration activities.
  • Coordinate with permitting agencies, contractors, and project stakeholders as required.
  • Maintain organized project files and complete assignments in accordance with project schedules, budgets, and company quality standards.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university.
  • Professional Electrical Engineer License.
  • Minimum five of electrical design experience within the architecture, engineering, or construction industry.
  • Understanding of fundamental electrical engineering principles, including electrical distribution, and lighting systems.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary project team.
  • Working knowledge of Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and electrical calculation software.
  • Familiarity with California building and energy codes.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience designing electrical systems for commercial, healthcare, education, laboratories, institutional, or municipal buildings.
  • Experience performing field surveys and documenting existing electrical systems.
  • Familiarity with sustainable design, energy efficiency, photovoltaic systems, battery energy storage systems, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

#LI-AC1 #LI-Onsite
About Legence
Legence (Nasdaq: LGN) is a leading provider of engineering, consulting, installation, and maintenance services for mission-critical systems in buildings. The company specializes in designing, fabricating, and installing complex HVAC, process piping, and other mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems-enhancing energy efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in new and existing facilities. Legence also delivers long-term performance through strategic upgrades and holistic solutions. Serving some of the world's most technically demanding sectors, Legence counts over 60% of the Nasdaq-100 Index among its clients.
Benefits Overview
401(k) Plan with Company Match: Currently match contributions dollar-for-dollar up to 4% of eligible pay; immediate vesting.
Health & Welfare Benefits: Employer provided medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, Employee Assistance Program and accident & illness coverage.
Life and Disability Insurance: Employer provided basic life insurance and AD&D valued at 50K coverage amount with the option for voluntary buy up for additional coverage.
Time Off: Vacation is 80 hrs/yr during your first 5 years, then 120 hrs/yr. Unused vacation rolls over up to 80 hrs (years 1-5) and 120 hrs (year 6+). Accrues each pay period, and unused accrued vacation time is paid out at separation per CA law. This is separate from CA sick leave; company holidays per policy.
Expenses: Business travel and related expenses reimbursed per company policy.
Reasonable Accommodations
If you need assistance or accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us at ta@wearelegence.com or your dedicated recruiter with the job title and requisition number.
Employment Eligibility
Candidates must have current work authorization in the U.S.; visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Third-Party Recruiting Disclaimer
Legence and its affiliates do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies; any such submissions without a prior signed agreement authorized by Legence Holdings LLC's CHRO or Director of Talent Acquisition will not incur fees and are considered property of Legence.
Pay Disclosure & Considerations
Where pay ranges are indicated, please note that a successful candidate's exact pay will be determined based relevant job-related factors, including any of the following: candidate's experience, skills, and qualifications, as well as geographic and market considerations. We are committed to ensuring fair and competitive compensation for all employees and comply with all applicable salary transparency laws.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
Legence and its affiliate companies are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), marital or familial status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, other non-merit-based factors, and any other characteristic protected under applicable local, state or federal laws and regulations.
EEO is the Law