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Substation Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Substation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Serve as the subject matter expert for substation and high-voltage engineering, including physical ... Develop design criteria and technical specifications; prepare / review internal engineering ...

Substation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$104K - $133K/yr

You will contribute to the planning and design of substations, transmission interconnections, and site electrical infrastructure while supporting fast-paced projects that demand innovation, technical ...

Substation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$104K - $133K/yr

You will contribute to the planning and design of substations, transmission interconnections, and site electrical infrastructure while supporting fast-paced projects that demand innovation, technical ...

Substation Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$176K - $187K/yr

Senior Substation Engineering Lead Role Overview We are seeking a Senior Substation Engineering ... You will manage projects from conceptual design through execution, serving as a primary mentor to ...

Showing results 41-60

Substation Design information

See California salary details

$53.3K

$82.7K

$115.5K

How much do substation design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation design in California is $82,651.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is substation design?

Substation design is the process of planning and creating the layout, specifications, and systems for electrical substations, which are critical facilities in the power grid that transform voltage and distribute electricity. This involves selecting and arranging equipment like transformers, circuit breakers, busbars, and protection systems to ensure safe and reliable electricity flow. Substation designers must consider factors such as safety, regulatory standards, electrical load requirements, and future expansion when developing these plans. Effective substation design is essential for maintaining grid stability and meeting the energy demands of homes and businesses.

What are some common challenges faced by engineers working in substation design, and how can they be addressed?

Engineers in substation design often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple disciplines (like civil, electrical, and protection teams), adhering to strict regulatory and safety standards, and managing evolving project requirements. Effective communication, strong project management skills, and staying updated with the latest industry codes are essential for overcoming these challenges. Collaborating closely with team members and stakeholders ensures design accuracy and helps prevent costly revisions, making adaptability and proactive problem-solving key assets in this role.

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

To thrive as a Substation Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, understanding of power systems, and typically a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and knowledge of industry standards like IEEE or NESC, as well as experience with protective relays and SCADA systems, are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure safe, efficient, and accurate project delivery. These competencies are essential for creating reliable substations that support electrical grid stability and meet regulatory and safety standards.

What is the difference between Substation Design vs Substation Engineering?

AspectSubstation DesignSubstation Engineering
Primary FocusCreating detailed layouts, schematics, and specifications for substation structures and equipmentOverseeing the technical aspects, ensuring design compliance, and integrating systems
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, professional engineering license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, collaboration with project teamsDesign offices, site visits, coordination with construction teams
Industry UsageUsed during the initial design phase of substationsInvolved throughout the project, from design review to commissioning

While both roles require electrical engineering knowledge and similar credentials, Substation Design focuses on creating detailed plans and layouts, whereas Substation Engineering involves overseeing and ensuring the technical integrity of the design during implementation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substation Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Substation Design jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Substation Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,651 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Substation Design Engineer Intern -Part Time

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc.

San Diego, CA

$22 - $32/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

About the Organization

E2 Consulting Engineers, LP (E2) is a professional services firm established in 1988 specializing in a full spectrum of engineering services including project engineering and design, federal base operations and infrastructure support services, gas pipeline construction and inspection services, environmental consulting and remediation, and information technology services.

Overview

E2 is looking for a Substation Design Engineer Intern to join our team in our greater Southwest region to support one of the largest electric utility clients.  The successful candidate will assist in developing physical or protection and control (P&C) substation design drawings and engineering calculations for electric utility clients. The position will work under the direction of a senior engineer and will report directly to the Substation Engineering Manager or Lead Engineer.

Responsibilities
  • Assist in developing physical or protection and control (P&C) substation design drawings and engineering calculations for electric utility clients.
  • Perform careful self-checking activities to ensure the quality of work before it is presented to senior design reviewers.
  • Communicate and coordinate project activities with senior engineer and/or project manager.
  • Utilize client and/or company information system to track and update design activities.
  • Assist senior engineers during job site meetings to gather scope of work.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Required

  • Pursuing a bachelor's in electrical engineering (ABET-approved), proficiency in AutoCAD/MicroStation and MS Office, with 1-3 years of related academic or project experience.
  • Proficient using Microsoft Office suite (e.g., Excel, Word, and Outlook).
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
  • Basic written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred

  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certification preferred but not required.
  • Experience with substation design and construction standards.
  • Experience with AutoCAD and/or MicroStation.
Benefits

E2 Consulting Engineers, LP offers an excellent benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401(k) with employer match, paid time off.

Wage Data Per State Requirements

Hourly rate for this position is $22.00 - $32.00/hour.  The starting rate will be commensurate with skill, education, experience, and working environment.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • The ability to sit/stand for up to 8 hours per day.
  • The ability to move freely for up to 8 hours per day.
Local Candidates onlyYesDrug Free Workplace

E2 Consulting Engineers, LP is a Drug Free Workplace. After accepting an offer of employment, applicants may be required to undergo background checks, drug testing, and/or fit-for-duty physical examination.  Drug screens will include, but not be limited to, Amphetamines, Cocaine Metabolites, Marijuana Metabolites (THC), Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). As a federal contractor, E2 cannot permit employees in certain positions to use medical marijuana, even if prescribed by an authorized physician.

Solicitation

Please no solicitation of any kind from agencies, staffing, or recruiting firms.

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Employment Type: PART_TIME