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Power Plant Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

HDR

System Protection and Studies Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

HDR Engineering is looking for a System Protection and Studies (SPS) Project Engineer to join our ... standard Power Market Sector design software. (examples include PLS CAD, AutoCAD, Plant 3D ...

HDR

System Protection and Studies Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

HDR Engineering is looking for a System Protection and Studies (SPS) Project Engineer to join our ... standard Power Market Sector design software. (examples include PLS CAD, AutoCAD, Plant 3D ...

HDR

Substation Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$105K - $134K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include responsibility for knowledge and ... standard Power Market Sector design software. (examples include PLS CAD, AutoCAD, Plant 3D ...

HDR

Substation Project Engineer

Irvine, CA

$105K - $134K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include responsibility for knowledge and ... standard Power Market Sector design software. (examples include PLS CAD, AutoCAD, Plant 3D ...

Terran Orbital Corporation

Staff Quality Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

... power our nation's defense and commercial missions. We are a unique, fast growing, and trusted team ... The Staff Quality Engineer will execute and administer plant-wide quality management systems ...

HDR

Transmission Line Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Perform routine to moderately complex engineering and design tasks. * Lead design teams to develop ... standard Power Market Sector design software. (examples include PLS CAD, AutoCAD, Plant 3D ...

HDR

Transmission Line Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Perform routine to moderately complex engineering and design tasks. * Lead design teams to develop ... standard Power Market Sector design software. (examples include PLS CAD, AutoCAD, Plant 3D ...

Essel

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Pomona, CA · On-site

$107K - $140K/yr

... plant projects * Prepares electrical design plans and specifications for new water facilities and ... Determine size for electrical services and backup power supplies * Design Motor Control Centers ...

Essel

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Pomona, CA · On-site

$107K - $140K/yr

... plant projects * Prepares electrical design plans and specifications for new water facilities and ... Determine size for electrical services and backup power supplies * Design Motor Control Centers ...

Essel

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Pomona, CA

$107K - $140K/yr

... plant projects * Prepares electrical design plans and specifications for new water facilities and ... Determine size for electrical services and backup power supplies * Design Motor Control Centers ...

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All JobsPower Plant Engineer JobsPower Plant Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Power Plant Engineer information

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$23

$37

$63

How much do power plant engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for power plant engineer in Riverside, CA is $37.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.86 and $37.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Power Plant Engineer Do?

A power plant engineer maintains day-to-day operations in a power plant. Their main duties involve conducting operational tests, providing preventative maintenance on machines, inspecting thermal systems, and working closely with other plant personnel. This job requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Many engineers earn a more specialized degree in chemical, electrical, or nuclear engineering depending upon their industry. Additional qualifications for a power plant engineer include experience working as part of a team, communication skills, and strong analytical abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Power Plant Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Power Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, strong problem-solving abilities, and a relevant engineering degree or certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, plant management software, and safety compliance standards is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and attention to detail help you collaborate effectively and ensure plant operations run smoothly. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable power generation.

What is the difference between Power Plant Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPower Plant EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Power Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; PE license optional but beneficial
Work EnvironmentPower plants, energy facilities, industrial sitesManufacturing, design firms, industrial plants, energy sectors
Industry UsageSpecific to energy generation and power productionBroad engineering applications across industries
Job FocusDesign, operation, and maintenance of power generation systemsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems

Power Plant Engineers specialize in energy generation systems within power plants, focusing on operation and maintenance. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working across various industries on mechanical systems. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and job focuses differ significantly.

What does a Power Plant Engineer do?

A Power Plant Engineer is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and optimization of power generation facilities. Their duties include overseeing equipment such as turbines, boilers, and generators to ensure efficient and safe production of electricity. They also perform regular inspections, troubleshoot issues, and implement safety protocols. In addition, Power Plant Engineers may work on upgrading systems to improve energy efficiency and comply with environmental regulations.

What are some common challenges Power Plant Engineers face in their daily work, and how can they prepare for them?

Power Plant Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as ensuring equipment reliability, troubleshooting unexpected failures, and maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations. They often need to respond quickly to operational issues, coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, and adapt to technological upgrades. To prepare, engineers benefit from staying updated on industry best practices, participating in ongoing training, and developing strong problem-solving and communication skills. Proactively engaging in preventive maintenance and collaborating closely with operations and maintenance teams can also help mitigate many common issues.
More about Power Plant Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Power Plant Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? For Power Plant Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Power Plant Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Power Plant Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Power Plant Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Power Plant Engineer job openings:
Power Plant Engineer jobs near you
System Protection and Studies Engineer

System Protection and Studies Engineer

HDR

Irvine, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 21 days ago

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 352 rated engineering

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

HDR Engineering is looking for a System Protection and Studies (SPS) Project Engineer to join our growing and nationally ranked team of Power Delivery professionals.

The primary duties of the SPS Engineer position are to perform engineering tasks with varying levels of complexity, which are assigned by a Lead Project Engineer, Engineering Manager, or Project Manager.

In the role of System Protection and Studies, we'll count on you to:

  • Perform protective relay calculations and determine appropriate relay set points.
  • Perform protective relay coordination studies utilizing short-circuit modeling software.
  • Develop relay setting files utilizing relay vendor software.
  • Produce relay coordination compliance reports for applicable NERC-PRC standards.
  • Develop SCADA point list.
  • Produce communication settings for protective relays.
  • Produce required client protective relay reports.
  • Provide protective relay construction support.
  • Provide P&C support with scheme development and design reviews.
  • Work under the direct supervision of a Senior Engineer, APM, or PM.
  • Work independently on tasks and may assist senior engineers on larger, more complex projects.
  • Some travel may be required.
  • Work with assistance from Project Engineers, other Electrical EITs or Technicians as needed
  • Coordinate with other substation design disciplines (i.e., P&C design teams)
  • Perform other duties as needed

#LI-JF1
Keywords: Systems Protection and Studies Engineer, substation, SCADA, electrical engineering, electrical engineer, power system analysis

  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with an Electrical/Power emphasis.
  • California Professional Engineer (PE) license
  • 4 years of experience doing electrical power system analysis, electrical system planning, protective device application, settings, and substation design is highly preferred.
  • Preference will be given to candidates local to the Irvine, CA area.
  • Previous experience with an architectural/engineering or engineering consulting firm
  • Prior experience consulting or working for an electric utility is considered a plus.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering
  • Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license
  • Previous experience in project execution within the Power Market Sector.
  • Computer skills in Microsoft Office as well as standard Power Market Sector design software. (examples include PLS CAD, AutoCAD, Plant 3D, AutoPipe, and Revit)
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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