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Power Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Electrical Engineer (Power) Company Name: Silverman & Light Location: Walnut Creek, CA ... Field Engineering & Start-up: Steer field investigative activities and lead start-up operations to ...

Hardware (Power) Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$138K - $196K/yr

As part of the central hardware power engineering group, you will collaborate with various functions like Hardware Design and Test, ASIC Design and Test, Power Engineering, Signal Integrity, EMC ...

As part of the central hardware power engineering group, you will collaborate with various functions like Hardware Design and Test, ASIC Design and Test, Power Engineering, Signal Integrity, EMC ...

Power System Engineer Job Location: Irvine, CA Job Type: Full-time / Hybrid Position Summary ETAP ... Utilize standard engineering and mathematical concepts and principles in the design, coding, and ...

Power System Engineer Job Location: Irvine, CA Job Type: Full-time / Hybrid Position Summary ETAP ... Utilize standard engineering and mathematical concepts and principles in the design, coding, and ...

The company is in execution mode and has a world-class engineering team with decades of experience ... Position Overview As a Power Engineer, you will develop highly reliable board-mounted power (BMP ...

Power System Engineer Location: Irvine, CA Work Type: Full Time/ Hybrid The Power System Engineer ... This role combines electrical engineering fundamentals with software troubleshooting, requiring ...

Senior Power Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

Build a power engineering team as the program scales from first build to production rate Minimum Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related ...

Power Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$160K - $225K/yr

Master's degree or foreign equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field. * Education and/or experience must include: * Utilizing Python to automate power data ...

Power System Engineer Location: Irvine, CA Work Type: Full Time/ Hybrid The Power System Engineer ... This role combines electrical engineering fundamentals with software troubleshooting, requiring ...

The company is in execution mode and has a world-class engineering team with decades of experience ... Position Overview As a Power Engineer, you will develop highly reliable board‑mounted power (BMP ...

Power Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$160K - $225K/yr

... Engineering or related field. Education and/or experience must include: Utilizing Python to ... power optimization insights Utilizing HTML and OOP programing languages to create power data ...

Power Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$160K - $225K/yr

Validate power reduction changes in a comprehensive power, performance and area (PPA) space ... Minimum Qualifications Master's degree or foreign equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Computer ...

Showing results 21-40

Power Engineering information

See California salary details

$22.2K

$96K

$168.8K

How much do power engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for power engineering in California is $96,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $131,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is power engineering?

Power engineering is a branch of electrical engineering that focuses on the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electric power. Power engineers work with systems and equipment that produce and deliver electricity, ensuring that it is reliable and efficient. This field involves designing power plants, managing renewable energy sources, maintaining electrical grids, and improving energy efficiency in various industries. Power engineers play a critical role in supporting modern infrastructure and the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a power engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, power systems analysis, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard software like ETAP, MATLAB, and SCADA systems, as well as knowledge of grid codes and safety regulations, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork are critical soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure reliable power generation and distribution, compliance with safety standards, and successful collaboration on complex engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by power engineers when working on large-scale energy projects?

Power engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring compliance with stringent safety and regulatory standards. They must also address technical issues related to grid reliability, integration of renewable energy sources, and evolving technology requirements. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential to navigate these complexities and deliver successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Power Engineering vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectPower EngineeringElectrical Engineering
CertificationsProfessional Engineer (PE), Power Engineering licensesPE, Electrical Engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentPower plants, energy generation, transmissionDesign, electronics, control systems, various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in energy, utilities, and power sectorsBroadly across electronics, telecommunications, manufacturing

Power Engineering focuses on the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power, often working in energy plants and utility companies. Electrical Engineering has a broader scope, including electronics, control systems, and various industries. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, Power Engineering specializes in power systems, making it ideal for careers in energy and utilities.

What do you do as a power engineer?

A power engineer designs, operates, and maintains electrical power systems, including generators, transformers, and distribution equipment. They ensure the reliable and efficient supply of electricity, often working with control systems and adhering to safety standards. Certification and technical knowledge of electrical codes are typically required in this role.

What cities in California are hiring for Power Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Power Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Power Engineering job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,030 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Traction Power Engineer/Assistant Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

RailWorks Corporation
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


RailWorks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job ID: 19820
Benefits Offering
RailWorks is committed to helping our employees live better lives. We offer comprehensive benefits packages to eligible employees, including competitive pay, medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, and additional performance incentives.
Compensation
$120000 - $170000 / year
Position Summary
The Traction Power Engineer plans, develops, manages, and coordinates engineering, technical, and project-related activities for rail transit construction projects.
Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties
  • Plan, coordinate, and manage traction power engineering activities from design through commissioning.
  • Ensure compliance with contract requirements, company standards, and project schedules.
  • Provide technical support during construction, including design interpretation and conflict resolution.
  • Oversee design integration to prevent scope gaps and ensure system functionality.
  • Manage traction power subcontractors, including scope definition, schedule review, billing, and change orders.
  • Monitor timely and accurate completion of traction power design and documentation.
  • Review and manage CDRLs, including test procedures, reports, O&M manuals, and training materials.
  • Prepare and manage project correspondence, including RFIs, letters, and transmittals.
  • Evaluate and support negotiation of design changes and specification revisions.
  • Support installation planning and ensure compliance with project requirements.
  • Resolve field issues related to design in collaboration with construction teams.
  • Coordinate labor tracking between construction and accounting teams.
  • Ensure timely procurement and delivery of traction power equipment.
  • Oversee testing, commissioning, and integrated system testing support.
  • Assist with cost monitoring, forecasting, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
  • Support bid preparation, including take-offs, pricing, and design reviews.
  • Maintain strong relationships with agencies, contractors, and suppliers.
  • Attend internal and external project meetings as required.

Required Skills and Qualifications
  • A minimum of 5 years of traction power/power distribution systems/engineering experience including a thorough knowledge of construction industry practices, methods, processes, and standards and their impact on project activities in a rail transit environment.
  • Preferably an Electrical PE with a good knowledge of current code and standards requirements for electrical work.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or Project Management; an advanced degree is a plus (In lieu of a degree, extensive experience in the military, railroad/construction, or related field will be considered)
  • Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions.
  • Ability to read and comprehend plans and specifications, and to comprehend and recognize safety standards and issues.
  • Knowledge of general contract and subcontract documents.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and presentation skills.
  • The ability to effectively interact with both customers and employees.
  • The ability to work independently as well as operate successfully as part of a collaborative team.
  • The ability to successfully execute decisions.
  • The ability to grasp facts, processes, and procedures quickly in a rapidly changing environment.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, cost and schedule controls.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Works indoors and outdoors at construction sites
  • Frequently stands, walks, climbs, balances, stoops, and crouches while negotiating work areas under construction.
  • Sits, reads, writes, and uses a computer keyboard.
  • May be exposed to harsh weather conditions including very hot and very cold weather.
  • May be exposed to loud noise.
  • Willing to travel.

Company Overview
This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.
RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With over 100 years of experience, our geographic footprint enables us to quickly serve our customers and provides ample opportunities for our employees to grow their careers within the company. We take on challenging projects every day and our success relies on a collaborative, safe, and open-minded work environment that encourages teamwork, positivity, and ingenuity. We are committed to creating a culture of trust, respect, and acceptance.
RailWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with RailWorks without regard to an individual's sex, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.

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