1

Substation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Substation Project Engineer Pomona, CA (Hybrid; 2 days on-site) Duration: initial 18-month contract (W2, not eligible for C2C) Pay: $32-37/hr We are seeking a Substation Project Engineer to support ...

New

Substation Project Engineer Pomona, CA (Hybrid; 2 days on-site) Duration: initial 18-month contract (W2, not eligible for C2C) Pay: $32-37/hr We are seeking a Substation Project Engineer to support ...

New

The Substation Engineer works within a multi-discipline team to develop efficient and reliable design of electrical systems and components for Substation Facilities. This Engineer is accountable for ...

Substation Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$105K - $134K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include responsibility for knowledge and execution of the technical aspects and deliverables of projects assigned and is an experienced ...

Substation Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$105K - $134K/yr

The primary duties of the Substation Project Engineer include responsibility for knowledge and execution of the technical aspects and deliverables of projects assigned and is an experienced ...

Showing results 41-60

Substation Engineer information

See California salary details

$61.7K

$112.1K

$147.5K

How much do substation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for substation engineer in California is $112,139.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $123,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a substation engineer do?

Substation engineers create design plans for power substations and collaborate with the project team and other stakeholders to finalize schematics. As a substation engineer, your job duties include generating design drawings and documents, determining the appropriate size and type of cables and conduits for each substation, facilitating tasks using engineering application software, and coordinating efforts with team members. The qualifications for a career as a substation engineer are a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, several years of experience in electrical engineering jobs, and excellent problem-solving skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, power systems, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with software like AutoCAD, ETAP, and SCADA systems, as well as knowledge of national electrical codes and safety standards, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers manage complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure safe, reliable, and efficient design, operation, and maintenance of electrical substations critical to power delivery.

What are some common challenges faced by substation engineers in coordinating with multiple project stakeholders?

Substation Engineers often collaborate with project managers, utility companies, contractors, and regulatory bodies. A frequent challenge is ensuring clear communication and alignment among all stakeholders, especially when project timelines or design specifications change. Managing documentation, adhering to safety standards, and addressing unforeseen technical issues require effective coordination. Building strong relationships and using project management tools can help Substation Engineers navigate these complexities and keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Substation Engineer vs Power Systems Engineer?

AspectSubstation EngineerPower Systems Engineer
CertificationsPE license, IEEE certificationsPE license, IEEE certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, construction, and maintenance of substationsPower system analysis, planning, and optimization
Industry UsageElectric utilities, transmission companiesUtilities, consulting firms, manufacturers
Common Search IntentDesign and operation of substationsPower system analysis and planning

Substation Engineers focus on the design, construction, and maintenance of electrical substations, ensuring reliable power delivery. Power Systems Engineers work on analyzing and optimizing entire electrical networks, often involving system-wide planning. While both roles require similar credentials and work within the electric utility industry, their specific responsibilities differ, with Substation Engineers concentrating on physical infrastructure and Power Systems Engineers on system performance and analysis.

How much does a substation engineer make?

A substation engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often with opportunities for overtime and project bonuses.

How much money do substation engineers make?

Substation engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high demand for electrical infrastructure expertise.

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 Substation Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Substation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various 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, with an average salary of $112,139 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Senior Substation Engineer

Solvenow Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Responsibilities
  • Manage large complex projects and perform engineering analyses, studies, and develop conceptual designs.
  • Lead, coach, direct, and assist technical employees and teams on technical issues. May act as an engineering mentor.
  • Assist in finalizing contract project specification and technical evaluation of contract project bids.
  • Provide support to other departments in land, permitting, and legal issues.
  • Resolves problems of complex scope. Assignments may provide an opportunity for creative or non-standard approaches. Under general direction, independently plans work to meet assigned general objectives. Work may be reviewed upon completion; solution may provide an opportunity for creative/non-standard approaches.
  • External contacts are with contractors, vendors and local public agencies with ministerial authority. Internal contacts are with clients, project team members, and company management. May provide technical direction to less experienced team members. Exchanges information and solves problems with others outside the team.
Qualifications

Minimum:

  • BS Degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited curriculum in the US or the equivalent from outside the US
  • 8 years of cumulative experience in electrical engineering and design

Desired:

  • Experience in multiple large-scale, large budget electric substation projects
  • Experience in substation engineering
  • Skilled in project management
  • Current California PE license