Remote Underground Utility Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients, delivering solutions through six business verticals: Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure; Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial Technology. With offices nationwide and abroad, NV5 helps clients plan, design, build, test, certify, and operate projects that improve the communities where we live and work.

As engineers, architects, construction/program managers, environmental professionals and beyond, NV5 team members play a significant role in shaping communities through the services provided. NV5 is seeking motivated and driven individuals to join a collaborative team focused on delivering solutions and improving lives.

This position supports electric distribution design efforts across a range of project types and complexities, including overhead and underground systems, wildfire mitigation/hardening programs, and system improvements. Team members contribute to project delivery by preparing construction-ready designs, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring adherence to client standards, regulatory requirements, and company quality expectations.

Depending on experience, candidates may contribute as developing designers, independent contributors, or technical leaders responsible for guiding design efforts, reviewing work, and mentoring others.

• Develop and prepare electric distribution designs, including overhead and underground systems, relocations, and system improvements
• Produce construction drawings, work orders, bills of materials, cost estimates, and supporting design documentation
• Perform engineering calculations, system analysis, and design validation to support project requirements
• Coordinate with project teams, contractors, utility personnel, and external stakeholders to resolve design challenges and advance project milestones
• Conduct and/or support field walks to document existing conditions and inform design solutions
• Apply and adhere to client standards, codes, safety requirements, and regulatory guidelines (e.g., CPUC, NEC, OSHA)
• Review designs for accuracy, completeness, constructability, and compliance prior to submittal
• Manage and maintain organized project documentation and design records
• Support multiple concurrent projects, prioritizing tasks to meet schedule and budget requirements
• Participate in internal and external meetings, representing NV5 in a professional manner
• Utilize design tools and software to develop and manage deliverables (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS, utility work management platforms)
• Identify risks, constructability concerns, and cost impacts, and collaborate with project teams to develop solutions
• Provide input on design standards, process improvements, and best practices
• Advanced / Leadership Responsibilities (based on experience):
• Lead design efforts for complex projects or programs with minimal oversight
• Perform formal design reviews (e.g., 30/60/90%) and quality assurance/quality control evaluations
• Provide technical guidance, direction, and mentorship to other designers and team members
• Serve as a client-facing technical resource, supporting project planning and execution
• Review and approve contractor or third-party design packages
• Coordinate across multidisciplinary teams and manage stakeholder expectations

• Certifications related to utility design (e.g., SDG&E underground/overhead or gas design certifications)
• Experience with SDG&E or similar utility standards (underground, overhead, service, and design manuals); experience level may range from early-career to advanced
• Relevant experience in electric utility distribution design (overhead and/or underground systems);
• Familiarity with utility design standards, construction practices, and regulatory requirements
• Understanding of engineering fundamentals and ability to perform design calculations
• Familiarity with GIS, SAP, SharePoint, Smartsheet, or similar tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams
• Demonstrated ability to manage workload, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; experience with AutoCAD, GIS, or utility design/work management tools preferred
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites as needed (typically up to 30%)
• Ability to work in field environments including construction zones, high-traffic areas, and remote locations

Preferred Qualifications:

• Southern California Edison (SCE) design qualified.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or related STEM discipline preferred; equivalent technical education or experience considered
• Experience preparing construction drawings, cost estimates, and bills of materials
• Knowledge of CPUC regulations, utility safety practices, and compliance requirements
• Experience reviewing design packages and performing QA/QC
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including mentoring or leading project teams

Performance Expectations:

• Deliver accurate, complete, and high-quality design packages
• Meet project schedules and budget constraints
• Effectively communicate with project teams and stakeholders
• Maintain compliance with safety, regulatory, and client standards
• Contribute to continuous improvement and team success

Physical Demands:

• Ability to sit for extended periods while working on design tasks
• Ability to interpret detailed and complex drawings
• Field work may be required, including walking or hiking (potentially several miles) to access utility infrastructure
• Ability to safely navigate construction sites and work environments alongside utility personnel

The pay range for this California position is $31.00- $58.00 per hour; however, base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience of the candidate. Full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. This information is provided per California Senate Bill 1162. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.