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Physical Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lead Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$110K - $145K/yr

  • Retirement

ICF is seeking an experienced Substation Physical Engineer to lead the design and execution of high ... We are a relentlessly client-focused group who are re-imagining, re-designing, and re-engineering ...

Technical Product Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$196K - $227K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with physical engineering, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), finite element analysis (FEA), or reservoir simulation. * Experience with 3D applications, industrial design software, or ...

Required Qualifications: * 15+ years of experience implementing and operating hardware testing, system validation, or multi‑disciplinary physical engineering programs, with proven experience ...

DAS / ERRCS Designer

Irvine, CA

$35 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... physical engineering libraries including job folders, equipment manuals, technical data sheets, brochures, and templates. • Apply company and National CAD/BIM standards to all shop drawings. • ...

DAS / ERRCS Designer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manage and update electronic and physical engineering libraries including job folders, equipment manuals, technical data sheets, brochures, and templates. Apply company and National CAD/BIM standards ...

As VP, you will scale and mentor a growing team of physical design engineers while establishing the methodologies and flows required to deliver multiple high-performance tapeouts in advanced process ...

Fire Alarm/Low Voltage Drafter

Ontario, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manage and update electronic and physical engineering libraries including job folders, equipment manuals, technical data sheets, brochures, and templates. * Apply company and National CAD Standards ...

Showing results 21-40

Physical Engineering information

See California salary details

$93.8K

$139.6K

How much do physical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical engineering in California is $137,583.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,200.00 and $138,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physical engineer?

A Physical Engineering job involves applying principles of physics and engineering to develop and improve materials, structures, and systems. Professionals in this field work in various industries, including manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and electronics, focusing on solving technical challenges. They use advanced modeling, simulations, and experimental methods to optimize designs and ensure functionality. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of materials science, and proficiency in engineering software.

What does a physical engineer do?

Physical Engineers often spend their days designing, analyzing, and testing physical systems or components, whether in the fields of electronics, materials, or mechanical applications. Their work includes using simulation software, conducting experiments in the lab, interpreting test data, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams to improve product performance or resolve technical challenges. Physical Engineers may also be involved in documenting their findings, preparing reports, and presenting recommendations to stakeholders. This role combines hands-on experimentation with theoretical analysis, providing variety and opportunities to contribute to innovative projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physical engineer?

To thrive as a Physical Engineer, a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles is essential, often supported by a degree in physical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and laboratory instrumentation, as well as relevant engineering certifications, are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving skills, effective teamwork, and clear communication are important soft skills for success in this role. These abilities ensure accurate design, analysis, and implementation of physical systems and technologies, contributing to innovative solutions in industrial and research settings.

What cities in California are hiring for Physical Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Physical Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Physical Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,583 per year, or $66.1 per hour.

Lead Substation Physical Engineer - REMOTE

ICF

Los Angeles, CA • Remote

$110K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Title: Lead Substation PhysicalEngineer

Location: Remote US

Ready to make a difference?
ICF is seeking an experienced Substation Physical Engineer to lead the design and execution of high-voltage substation projects (typically 69kV to 500kV) with the goal of providing excellent quality work for our clients.

We are a relentlessly client-focused group who are re-imagining, re-designing, and re-engineering the way electric utilities tackle industry problems. We are seeking passionate and innovative people who are constantly looking for ways to provide better quality engineering services for our clients.

Why you'll love working here:

  • Quality of life: Fully remote, flexible schedule, work-life balance

  • Investment of the community: Donation matching, volunteer opportunities

  • Investment in you: Tuition reimbursement, access to professional development resources, 401k matching, Employee Stock Purchase Plan

  • And many, many more (Ask your recruiter for more details!)

The Ideal Candidate

You are a highly motivated engineer who takes pride in the services you provide. You ensure the project is done right and all deadlines are met. You should be proactive, self-sufficient, and able to productively work out of your home without direct supervision.

This role requires a deep understanding of physical layout, bus design, equipment selection, grounding, and constructability. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with utility clients, be self-motivated, and capable of mentoring junior staff.

**This position offers a clear growth path to becoming a Supervising Engineer, with increasing responsibility for project oversight, client engagement, and team leadership.**

What you will be doing:

  • Responsibilities include, but are not limited, leading and overseeing the design and preparation of substation physical design drawings and including:

    • Substation One Line and Three Line

    • Station General Arrangements & Sections

    • Electrical Details

    • Grounding Plan & Details

    • Conduit Plan & Details

    • Control Cubicle Layout, Sections, Cable Tray, Lighting, and Grounding

    • Low-Voltage AC Panels

    • Grounding Plan & Details

    • Lightning Protection

    • Illumination Plan & Details

  • Leading the design and preparation of engineering studies such as:

    • AC Load

    • Illumination

    • Grounding

    • Lightning Shielding

  • Develop Bill of Materials based on design criteria

  • Coordinate with protection & controls, civil/structural, and drafting disciplines to ensure quality deliverables

  • Support client meetings, technical discussions, and project planning efforts

  • Participate in site visits and constructability reviews

  • Interpret and incorporate vendor information into design deliverables

  • Apply client standards related to the work

  • Perform/ensure company's Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) processes are being followed on all design packages

  • Ensure compliance with industry codes (e.g., IEEE, NESC, NEC) and utility standards

  • Continuous improvement of job-related engineering, technical and professional knowledge, skills, and performance

  • Mentor and guide junior engineers and designers

  • Demonstrate leadership potential to support transition into a Supervising Engineer

What we need you to have (minimum qualifications):

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (focus in power systems preferred)

  • 8+ years of experience in substation physical design for electric utilities

What we would like you to have (professional skills):

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain within 6 months

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar design tool

  • Familiarity with substation design standards and practices (IEEE, NESC, utility specs)

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to manage multiple projects and mentor junior staff

  • Strong initiative and leadership qualities to support career advancement

  • Experience leading substation projects modelled in 3D using Autodesk Inventor

  • Familiarity with substation grounding studies and CDEGS

  • Familiarity with Agi32 illumination software

  • Advanced user of Microsoft products, specifically Word and Excel

To learn more about this team and how our grid engineering solutions help electric utilities balance cutting-edge technology with cost-efficiency and reliability> ICF Power Delivery Services

#GEA25

#POWERDELIVERY

#INDEED

#LI-CC1


Bot and Third-Party Applications

Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration.Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration.Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contactCandidateaccommodation@icf.comfor assistance.

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer.Together, our employees are empowered to share theirexpertiseand collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read ourEEOpolicy.

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals withsincerely heldreligious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To requestan accommodation,please emailCandidateaccommodation@icf.comand we will be happy toassist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extentrequiredto provide needed reasonable accommodations.

Read more aboutworkplacediscriminationrightsor our benefit offerings which are included in theTransparency in (Benefits) CoverageAct.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate orassistwith responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is notpermitted. This policy is in place tomaintainthe integrity and authenticity of the interview process.

However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodationthat involves the use of AI. Ifsuch anaccommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance atcandidateaccommodation@icf.com. Weare dedicated to providingthe necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.


Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:

$119,323.00 - $202,850.00Nationwide Remote Office (US99)