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Remote Substation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Knowledge of smart infrastructure equipment such as automatic feeder switches, remote sensing ... with substation and transmission projects - Experience with AutoCAD - Experience with GIS ...

Knowledge of smart infrastructure equipment such as automatic feeder switches, remote sensing ... with substation and transmission projects - Experience with AutoCAD - Experience with GIS ...

SCADA Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site +1

$90K - $115K/yr

High Voltage substation SCADA * Power Plant Control (PPC) for, Solar, Battery Energy Storage (BESS ... Remote flexibility * Flexible time off * Comprehensive benefits package * Career progression * 401k ...

SCADA Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site +1

$90K - $115K/yr

High Voltage substation SCADA * Power Plant Control (PPC) for, Solar, Battery Energy Storage (BESS ... Remote flexibility * Flexible time off * Comprehensive benefits package * Career progression * 401k ...

SCADA Controls Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site +1

$89K - $115K/yr

Document and implement logic and control schemes for remote and local operation of power system ... Substation, Information Technology, or Distribution design, construction, or operations preferred.

Power Controls Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site +1

$89K - $115K/yr

Document and implement logic and control schemes for remote and local operation of power system ... Substation, Information Technology, or Distribution design, construction, or operations preferred.

Distribution Engineer III/IV

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $175K/yr

Overview Distribution Engineer III/IV - San Diego, CA (Hybrid 4x in office /1x remote) At NV5, we ... substation solutions through planning, engineering, & design. Our Engineers are responsive ...

Showing results 21-40

Remote Substation Engineer information

What is a remote substation engineer?

Remote Substation Engineers are professionals who design, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical substations from a remote location using advanced communication and monitoring technologies. They play a critical role in ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical power systems by overseeing the operation of substations, which are key points in the electrical grid where voltage is transformed and distributed. Their work often includes using specialized software to monitor system performance, coordinate with on-site technicians, and implement upgrades or repairs. This remote capability allows utilities to respond quickly to issues and maintain a consistent power supply while reducing the need for constant on-site presence.

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

To thrive as a Remote Substation Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, power systems, and substation design, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and relevant professional licensure (e.g., PE). Proficiency with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, ETAP, and SCADA systems, as well as knowledge of NERC and IEEE standards, is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective remote communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with distributed teams and managing complex projects. These skills and qualifications ensure safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance in the design and operation of substations from remote locations.

How does a remote substation engineer typically collaborate with field teams when handling equipment issues or upgrades?

Remote Substation Engineers often work closely with onsite field teams, providing technical guidance and troubleshooting support via digital communication tools. Although most of their duties are performed remotely, they regularly coordinate with field technicians to interpret data, diagnose equipment problems, and ensure compliance with safety protocols during upgrades or repairs. Effective communication and clear documentation are essential, as Remote Substation Engineers must translate complex engineering concepts into actionable instructions for field crews. This collaborative approach helps maintain operational reliability and minimizes downtime.

What is the difference between Remote Substation Engineer vs Substation Technician?

AspectRemote Substation EngineerSubstation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license often preferredTechnical diploma or associate degree in electrical technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, oversee projects remotely, occasional site visitsOn-site maintenance, installation, troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, engineering firms, consulting agenciesUtility companies, contractors, maintenance firms

The Remote Substation Engineer primarily focuses on designing and overseeing substation projects remotely, requiring engineering credentials and offering a more analytical role. In contrast, the Substation Technician handles on-site maintenance and repairs, requiring technical training. Both roles are essential in the power industry but differ in responsibilities, work environment, and required qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Substation Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Remote Substation Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Remote Substation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Substation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Senior Estimator II - Substation & High Voltage

Cupertino Electric, Inc.

San Jose, CA • On-site, Remote

$123K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop precise, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for HV/MV Substation/Transmission projects, including self-perform and subcontracted scopes of work.

  • Perform material take-offs, review and evaluate material quotes, and develop vendor and subcontractor relationships.

  • Manage and maintain vendor and subcontractor databases, prepare RFQs, and evaluate vendor pricing.


Cupertino Electric rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Posting Title: Sr Estimator II - Substation & High Voltage
Reports To: Chief Estimator - Energy
Location: Remote
Salary Range: $123,000 to $161,000
Final determination of a successful candidate's starting pay will vary based on a number of factors, including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, education and experience. The pay scale listed for this position is generally for candidates that meet the specified qualifications and requirements listed on this specific job description. We provide a competitive compensation package that recognizes your experience, credentials, and education alongside a robust benefits program to meet your needs. Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several US geographic markets.
WHO WE ARE
Since 1954, Cupertino Electric, Inc. (CEI)has been powered by people who've built a reputation for delivering high-profile, complex projects. Real, tangible things that alter the landscape and improve lives. And we've done it with integrity for more than 70 years. We're problem solvers and innovation seekers. We're team players and safety fanatics. And we're proud to be part of Quanta Services (PWR:NYSE), North America's largest employer of skilled craft labor. Because what we do is important, but how we do it is everything.
THE ENERGY TEAM
Our Energy Group at CEI builds projects from the field to the grid. Whether it's a solar, battery storage, substation, EV charging, microgrid or converter station project, our skilled project managers, engineers and field employees deliver when it matters most. We work with customers on programs of all sizes-those spanning several smaller sites or spanning several thousand acres. Besides building some of the nation's largest utility-scale solar plants and installing more EV charging stations in California than any other contractor, we are dedicated to running a business that is environmentally responsible.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Sr Estimator II will work closely with the Estimating, Preconstruction, Project Management, Purchasing, and Engineering teams. The role will report to the Chief Estimator - Energy. The HV Estimator will be responsible for developing precise, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for HV/MV Substation/Transmission estimates, including self-perform and subcontracted scopes of work - often associated with Utility-scale solar PV and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), or data centers. Estimating includes developing proposal level designs, RFQ and quote evaluation & contractor selection.
  • Performing all levels and types of estimating, planning, scheduling, and cost engineering for project activities
  • Accurately performing material take-offs for HV/MV utility projects
  • Reviewing, evaluating and negotiating material quotes
  • Developing and maintaining material vendor relationships
  • Developing and maintaining relationships with subcontractors/partners
  • Manage and maintain vendor and subcontractor database
  • Preparing vendor Requests for Quotes and evaluate vendor pricing
  • Knowledge of power delivery, including substations and transmission lines
  • Knowledge of all engineering scopes, including electrical, mechanical, structural, civil, and permitting compliance
  • Training and developing junior estimators
  • Manage priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Reviewing and implementing lessons learned to ensure estimating data is accurate and comparative
  • Researching new products and installation techniques and developing cost roadmaps to ensure competitive pricing
  • Interpreting construction plans and specifications
  • Operating in a high-stress environment to provide critical project deliverables in the form of engineering, procurement, and construction estimates with supporting documentation to meet milestone proposal dates
  • Knowledge of shipping and logistics with respect to cost estimating
  • Successfully meeting deadlines and partner with team members while working remotely

Knowledge: Developing professional expertise, applies company policies and procedures to resolve a variety of issues.
Job Complexity: Works on problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations or data requires a review of a variety of factors. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action. Builds productive internal/external working relationships.
Supervision: Normally receives general instructions on routine work, detailed instructions on new projects or assignments.
ABOUT YOU
  • Verifiable experience of reliable and integrity-driven work habits in an unsupervised setting when appropriate
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Proven analytical, organizational and negotiation skills
  • Experience with Engineer, Procure, Construct (EPC) estimates
  • Experience with MS Office
  • Experience with Accubid or similar estimating software
  • Experience with Bluebeam or similar on-screen take-off software
  • Utility substation and transmission line experience
  • Existing relationships with Tier 1 vendors
  • Basic knowledge of electrical circuitry and calculations

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities as well as possession of any required licenses or certifications is qualifying.
Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Construction Management preferred.
Licensure/Certifications: None required.
Experience: Estimating experience in substations, transmission and distribution systems. Preferred: additional experience in project management, solar PV, or battery energy storage. More than (7) years of experience would qualify for Senior Estimator.
*Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
#LI-JJ1
PLEASE NOTE: CEI will never ask for any money or financial information from applicants during the hiring process. To learn more about "job scams" how to avoid them, click here.
CEI is a place where every single person can-and does-have an impact on the work we do and the communities we serve. Here, you can build your own story and grow to your full potential. You can collaborate and celebrate with amazing people. And you'll go home every day knowing you helped contribute to important work that shapes people's lives. Our commercial, data center and energy projects may be complex, but our approach is simple. We build great things and we do it with great people.
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department, program or project needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
Cupertino Electric, Inc. (CEI) is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.
Cupertino Electric Inc. aims to make cei.com accessible to any and all users. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation to navigate our website or complete the application process, please contact us at [email protected] or 1-(877)-747-4CEI.

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