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Senior Utilities Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Senior Utility Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

In the role of Senior Utility Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide project engineering and ... Must have coordinated survey, grading, drainage and utilities and layout of various site items is a ...

HDR

Senior Utility Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

In the role of Senior Utility Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide project engineering and ... Must have coordinated survey, grading, drainage and utilities and layout of various site items is a ...

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All JobsUtilities Engineer JobsSenior Utilities Engineer JobsSenior Utilities Engineer Jobs in California

Senior Utilities Engineer information

See California salary details

$58.7K

$124.9K

$181.1K

How much do senior utilities engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior utilities engineer in California is $124,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,100.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by senior utilities engineers when managing large-scale infrastructure projects?

Senior Utilities Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, ensuring compliance with strict regulatory standards, and managing unexpected technical issues that arise during project execution. Balancing project timelines and budgets while maintaining system reliability and safety is also a key responsibility. These engineers typically work closely with cross-functional teams—including project managers, contractors, and regulatory agencies—to address these challenges and keep projects on track.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior utilities engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Utilities Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, utilities infrastructure, and project management, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering and professional licensure (such as PE). Expertise with industry-specific software like AutoCAD, SCADA systems, and asset management tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure reliable utility operations, regulatory compliance, and efficient project delivery within complex, multidisciplinary environments.

What is a senior utilities engineer?

Senior Utilities Engineers are experienced professionals responsible for designing, managing, and maintaining utility systems such as water, gas, electricity, and wastewater in various facilities or municipalities. They oversee projects, ensure compliance with regulations, and troubleshoot complex system issues. Additionally, they may lead teams, coordinate with contractors, and implement new technologies to improve efficiency and reliability of utility services.

What is the difference between Senior Utilities Engineer vs Utilities Engineer?

AspectSenior Utilities EngineerUtilities Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, professional engineering license often preferred, relevant certificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, engineering license may be preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, oversee, and coordinate utility systems in large projects or facilitiesAssist in utility system installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in infrastructure, construction, and industrial sectors for senior rolesCommonly used in facilities management, construction, and engineering firms

The Senior Utilities Engineer typically has more experience, handles complex projects, and oversees utility systems, while the Utilities Engineer focuses on supporting utility operations and maintenance. Both roles require relevant engineering credentials and work in similar environments, but the senior position involves greater responsibility and project oversight.

What are popular job titles related to Senior Utilities Engineer jobs in California? For Senior Utilities Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Utilities Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Utilities Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Utilities Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Utilities Engineer job openings:
Senior Utilities Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Utilities Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,900 per year, or $60 per hour.

Senior Utilities Engineer (Specialist) - Energy Division

National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Overview

Energy Division/ Electric Costs and Retail Choice Branch/ Electric General Rate Case

Under the general direction of the Project and Program Supervisor, the Senior Utilities Engineer (SUE) will advise and assist high‑level decision‑makers such as Commissioners, Judges, and Energy Division management on electric general rate case proceedings that examine utility capital expenditure and annual operating costs forecasts. The SUE may act as a team leader and project coordinator of these general rate cases. The SUE will analyze utility general rate case and cost of capital applications, utility requests to securitize costs through issuance of bonds and non‑bypassable fixed recovery charges, and other utility financing matters. The SUE will make recommendations based on independent analysis of regulatory, policy and technical issues, and review utility costs and trends pertaining to electric utility operations. The SUE will also review and recommend action on \'advice letter\' requests from the utility in compliance with prior Commission orders, review and provide feedback on proposed legislative bills, and/or oversee implementation of programs that result from CPUC and legislative processes.

The SUE will perform other work as necessary, such as writing and presenting reports, coordinating with other California organizations and agencies (e.g., the California Energy Commission, the California Air Resources Board, California Independent System Operator), and responding to outside inquiries.

Responsibilities
  • Advise and support decision‑makers on electric general rate case proceedings.
  • Act as team leader and project coordinator for general rate cases.
  • Analyze general rate case and cost of capital applications.
  • Assess utility financing, including bond issuance and fixed recovery charges.
  • Make recommendations on regulatory, policy, and technical issues.
  • Review utility costs, trends, and operational data.
  • Respond to utility \'advice letter\' requests and legislative proposals.
  • Prepare and present reports.
  • Coordinate with California agencies and external stakeholders.
  • Respond to outside inquiries and support CPUC initiatives.
  • Travel as required.
Qualifications
  • Professional Engineer license; a copy of the license must be provided before hiring.
  • Relevant experience in public utilities, transportation, economics, finance, or policy related to electric utilities.
  • Experience with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) environmental reviews for large infrastructure projects.
  • Strong technical, educational, and experience record in environmental, energy or industrial fields.
  • Proven stakeholder outreach and engagement skills.
Working Conditions

Limited‑term position that may be extended up to 24 months and could become permanent based on funding. The role requires travel and is hybrid, with a minimum of two days per week on site. Telework may be eligible under California Government Code Section 14200 for eligible California residents.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and reside in California. The CPUC does not participate in the federal E‑Verify program. Employment sponsorship may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis under agency policies and applicable regulations.

Location
  • Los Angeles – apply to JC#521385.
  • Sacramento – apply to JC#521379.
  • Only apply for locations you are willing to work.
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