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Power Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GPU Power Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$161K - $242K/yr

GPU power modeling and estimation for projection and correlation * GPU workload analysis, profiling ... Systems Engineering, or related work experience. OR Master's degree in Computer Engineering ...

As a Power Systems Design Engineer at Etched, you will be pivotal in designing, selecting, and qualifying power supply solutions to meet extremely high power demands for processors. You will work ...

As a Power Systems Design Engineer at Etched, you will be pivotal in designing, selecting, and qualifying power supply solutions to meet extremely high power demands for processors. You will work ...

Power System Engineer Job Location: Irvine, CA Job Type: Full-time / Hybrid Position Summary ETAP is seeking a Power System Engineer to expand our capabilities in the Data Exchange Department. The ...

Showing results 41-60

Power Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$55.3K

$116.2K

$177.1K

How much do power systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for power systems engineer in California is $116,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $132,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges power systems engineers face when working on grid modernization projects?

Power Systems Engineers involved in grid modernization often grapple with integrating renewable energy sources, ensuring grid reliability, and managing rapidly evolving technologies. Balancing traditional infrastructure with new smart grid components can be complex, requiring close collaboration with utility operators, IT specialists, and regulatory bodies. Additionally, adapting to changing industry standards and ensuring compliance with safety and efficiency regulations are ongoing challenges that demand strong problem-solving and communication skills.

What is the difference between Power Systems Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectPower Systems EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, PE license optional
Work EnvironmentFocus on power generation, transmission, and distribution systemsBroader scope including electronics, control systems, and general electrical design
Industry UsagePrimarily in utilities, power generation, and transmission companiesWider range including manufacturing, electronics, and construction
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Power Systems Engineers specialize in designing, analyzing, and maintaining electrical power systems, often working within utilities and energy sectors. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, covering various electrical systems and electronics across multiple industries. While both roles require similar credentials, Power Systems Engineers focus specifically on power infrastructure, making them the ideal comparison for those interested in the energy sector.

What is a power systems engineer?

A power systems engineer works in the energy industry. In this career, your job is to design, evaluate, and oversee the electrical power distribution system for a utility company or substations, perform electric metering, or work for a wind power company to evaluate transmission viability. You generally work on all parts of a power system to increase its efficiency and help the company for which you work to achieve their goals as assigned. You also have duties and responsibilities in project development, as you help the project manager determine the best locations for new utility projects like wind turbines or substations. As a power systems engineer, you also determine the best places within these locations for controls.

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

To thrive as a Power Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, power systems analysis, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in electrical engineering. Familiarity with power system simulation tools (such as ETAP, PSS/E, or MATLAB) and relevant industry standards or certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure is important. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for designing reliable power systems, ensuring safety, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to support infrastructure and energy needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Systems Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Power Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Power Systems Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Power Systems Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Power Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Power Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Power Systems 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 $116,160 per year, or $55.8 per hour.

Sr. Power Systems Engineer (Starship Avionics)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SR. POWER SYSTEMS ENGINEER (STARSHIP AVIONICS)

The Starship Avionics team supports the mission to revolutionize orbital flight and space travel-opening access for humankind to establish new frontiers in space and ultimately become a multi-planetary species. Our team builds some of the most advanced electronics ever flown in space- at a cost and rate previously considered unthinkable in the space industry. Become a part of this fast moving and world class Avionics team, work with super smart and motivated engineers, and achieve truly audacious goals. If you're ready for a challenge and would like to help make our civilization multi-planetary then you've come to the right place!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provide engineering expertise in design, analysis, and testing of DC-DC power converters for harsh environments
  • Work on electrical power system and sub-system level design trades and develop requirements
  • Define and perform electrical power system verification testing and analysis
  • Work with multidisciplinary teams of design, test, and production engineers to create new power electronics hardware

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering
  • 5+ years of experience in power converter development

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Master's degree in electrical engineering or related field
  • Previous experience with DC-DC power converter development
  • Previous experience working with magnetics and design of custom transformers and inductors, including planar magnetics
  • Experience in modeling, simulation, and testing of power electronics
  • Strong grasp of analog control and discrete logic design
  • Experience in modeling, simulation, and testing of power electronics
  • Working experience in voltage and current mode control and compensation design
  • Experience with AC-DC converters and power factor correction
  • Strong grasp of DC-DC topologies, with ability to select optimal architectures and components
  • Understanding of design for fault tolerance and reliability
  • Familiar with failure mode effects and criticality analysis
  • Familiarity with design of wire wound and planar inductors and transformers
  • Familiarity with power supply testing and packaging for harsh environments
  • Experience with in-lab impedance measurement and loop-gain measurement
  • Familiarity with spacecraft electrical power systems and knowledge of radiation effects

 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission critical deadlines

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:          
Sr. Power Systems Engineer: $130,000.00 - $180,000.00/per year 

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US