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Power Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Utilize engineering application software for modeling and simulating data center power systems ... Interpret and apply industry interconnection requirements to support software development and ...

Sr. Power Systems Engineer (PE)

Baker, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

The Senior Power Systems Engineer (PE) serves as a technical leader for power system design, utility interconnection, protection systems, and distributed energy resources (DER) supporting commercial ...

Sr. Power Systems Engineer (PE)

Escondido, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

The Senior Power Systems Engineer (PE) serves as a technical leader for power system design, utility interconnection, protection systems, and distributed energy resources (DER) supporting commercial ...

GPU Power Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท 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 ...

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 Sep 5, 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 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 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.

How much do power systems engineers make?

Power systems engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $130,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in grid management or renewable energy may earn higher salaries.

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 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,160 per year, or $55.8 per hour.

Power System Engineer

Aveva

Irvine, CA โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

ETAP empowers customers to make informed decisions throughout the life cycle of their projects with innovative software solutions for electrical systems. By applying ETAP solutions, customers experience continuous intelligence during design and engineering and into operations and maintenance using a unified electrical digital twin platform. ETAP supports customers in their digital transformation and sustainable energy transitions for a green and smart future, helping them to prioritize safety, maximize reliability, and stay resilient.

Our employees' passion for excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction is our most-prized resource. If you share that passion - and want to be part of a company that leads the energy transition towards a cleaner and more resilient world for future generations - we invite you to join us!

ETAP is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Title:Power System Engineer

Location:Irvine, CA

Employment Type: Full-time

Work Shift: Hybrid

Job Description

We are seeking a motivated candidate to join ETAP's Control Division, supporting software development and consulting services focused on data center interconnection studies. This role involves validating ETAP software products and providing technical expertise to ensure compliance with grid codes and interconnection requirements.

Key Responsibilities
  • Perform detailed engineering and mathematical hand calculations based on power system analysis principles to validate ETAP software accuracy.

  • Develop and execute test cases for data center interconnection scenarios, ensuring compliance with ETAP QA standards and lifecycle operations.

  • Utilize engineering application software for modeling and simulating data center power systems.

  • Interpret and apply industry interconnection requirements to support software development and enhance simulation capabilities.

  • Provide technical consulting and support to clients via email and phone.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Essential:

  • Intermediate knowledge of Power System Analysis topics: Power Flow, Short Circuit, Protection & Coordination, and Dynamics.

  • Ability to perform detailed hand calculations to verify and validate software computation results.

  • Strong documentation skills to summarize simulation results and prepare technical reports.

  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills for client interaction and cross-functional collaboration.

  • Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently while managing multiple tasks.

Preferred:

  • Experience with ETAP or similar power system simulation tools.

  • Proficiency in automation and programming (e.g., advanced Excel, Python, or scripting languages).

  • Familiarity with interconnection standards such as IEEE 2800, IEEE 1547, and PRC-029.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Power System Engineering (Master's preferred).

  • 0-5 years of relevant experience.

ETAP requires all successful applicants to undergo and pass a comprehensive background check before they start employment. Background checks will be conducted in accordance with local laws and may, subject to those laws, include proof of educational attainment, employment history verification, proof of work authorization, criminal records, identity verification, credit check. Certain positions dealing with sensitive and/or third party personal data may involve additional background check criteria.

ETAP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to being an exemplary employer with an inclusive culture, developing a workplace environment where all our employees are treated with dignity and respect. We value diversity and the expertise that people from different backgrounds bring to our business.

Come and join ETAP to create the transformative technology that enables our customers to engineer a better world.