1

Traction Power Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Transit experience is a must, particularly in traction power, train control, and communications systems. * Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams of engineers through all phases of a project ...

Senior Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Transit experience is a must, particularly in traction power, train control, and communications systems. * Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams of engineers through all phases of a project ...

Transit experience is a must, particularly in traction power, train control, and communications systems. * Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams of engineers through all phases of a project ...

We are looking for a professional engineer with specific expertise in rail signaling, communications and/or traction power. With more than 50 rail and transit projects currently underway across the ...

Senior Rail Track Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

The Track and Civil Engineer will lead the planning, design, and delivery of rail and transit track ... Coordinate closely with signaling, traction power, overhead catenary systems (OCS), communications ...

Senior Rail Track Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$123K - $169K/yr

The Track and Civil Engineer will lead the planning, design, and delivery of rail and transit track ... Coordinate closely with signaling, traction power, overhead catenary systems (OCS), communications ...

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Business Management, or a related field AND a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in traction power ...

TES Senior Superintendent

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$165K - $195K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Business Management, or a related field AND a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in traction power ...

Electrician (SEIU) (External)

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $118K/yr

Traction Power Opening Date: 03/30/2026 Closing Date: 9/25/2026 11:59 PM Pacific FLSA: Non-Exempt ... Reading and interpreting diagrams, engineering drawings, manuals and schematics * Working with high ...

Showing results 21-40

Traction Power Engineer information

See California salary details

$103.6K

$123.5K

$142.6K

How much do traction power engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for traction power engineer in California is $123,537.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $133,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a traction power engineer do?

A traction power engineer typically works in the transit and rail industry and is responsible for developing design/concepts to clients and project team members. Other responsibilities in this career may include performing engineering studies and analyses that assist the project manager in establishing a budget, cost estimates, and overall project schedules. As part of your duties, you may need to design and prepare diagrams, communications, substation layouts, and grounding grids, selection of substation equipment specifications, proposals, metering, construction costs, reports, analysis, and technical studies for the traction power distribution systems.

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

To thrive as a Traction Power Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, experience with high-voltage systems, and typically a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as AutoCAD or ETAP), knowledge of railway power systems, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) status are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of traction power infrastructure in transportation systems.

What is the difference between Traction Power Engineer vs Electrical Power Engineer?

AspectTraction Power EngineerElectrical Power Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, possibly PE license, specialized in transit systemsEngineering degree, PE license, broader electrical systems expertise
Work EnvironmentPublic transit, rail, metro systemsPower plants, industrial facilities, utility companies
Industry UsageTransportation infrastructure projectsEnergy generation and distribution
Common Search IntentDesigning and maintaining transit power systemsElectrical system design and power distribution

While both roles involve electrical systems, a Traction Power Engineer specializes in power systems for transit and rail networks, focusing on electrification and safety. An Electrical Power Engineer has a broader scope, working on power generation, distribution, and industrial applications. The key difference lies in industry focus and specific system expertise.

What are the most common challenges faced by traction power engineers in large-scale rail transit projects?

Traction Power Engineers working on large-scale rail transit projects frequently encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple engineering disciplines, ensuring system reliability under high passenger loads, and adhering to stringent safety standards. Managing project timelines while integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure can also be demanding. Effective communication and close collaboration with civil, signaling, and operations teams are essential to overcome these hurdles and deliver safe, efficient power systems for rail networks.

What does a traction power engineer do?

A Traction Power Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the electrical systems that supply power to railway vehicles, such as trains, trams, and subways. They ensure that the power systems are safe, reliable, and efficient, working on components like substations, overhead wires, and third-rail systems. Their role often involves collaborating with civil and signaling engineers, conducting site assessments, and troubleshooting issues to keep transportation networks running smoothly.
What are popular job titles related to Traction Power Engineer jobs in CA? For Traction Power Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Traction Power Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,537 per year, or $59.4 per hour.

Quality Control Engineer - Systems

Tutorperini

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Expected salary range for this position is $110,000 - $145,000 depending on experience.

Tutor Perini Corporation is seekingto hire a QC Engineer (Systems) to join our office inLos Angeles, CA.

About Tutor Perini Corporation

Tutor Perini Corporation is a leading civil, building, and specialty Construction Company thatbelieves integrity, teamwork, and a collaborative approach are fundamental to our business success.

The world relies on infrastructure - to ensure public safety, maintain a quality of life and support a healthy economy. For more than a century, Tutor Perini Corporation's family of construction companies has supported the development and maintenance of many diverse projects across our great nation. Our corporate integrity, financial strength and outstanding record of performance makes us an attractive partner on large, sophisticated infrastructure projects.

From coast to coast, notable projects include The Purple Line (D Line) Extensions in Los Angeles, SR 99 Viaduct replacement tunnel in Seattle, East Side Access projects and the Hudson Yards Platform in New York, Central Subway Third Street Light Rail in San Francisco, and multiple airport expansions and bridge projects. At Tutor Perini you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of large, high-profile projects that impact your community.

Extraordinary Projects need Exceptional Talent

DESCRIPTION:

The QC Engineer (Systems) will be responsible for Quality Control (QC) inspection, surveillance and oversight of all systems within a heavy rail passenger (underground subway) project, ensuring quality standards are met and interface compatibility across multiple disciplines including electrical, mechanical, fire protection, communications, traction power, train control, and related subsystems. This individual will report to the QC Manager and act as the central point of coordination for all QC systems-related technical interfaces and monitor system interoperability, communication protocols, and testing activities.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

  • Primary QC inspection function, with focus on rail systems and the integration of all technical systems and subsystems across the transit (subway) project.

  • Monitor and inspect system interfaces (electrical, mechanical, fire protection, communications, traction power, train control, SCADA, and others) and ensure proper documentation.

  • Monitor interface control documents (ICDs) and participate in safety certification process to track responsibilities and technical requirements between systems and subcontractors.

  • Work closely with design engineers, contractors, OEM vendors, and client representatives to resolve system interface conflicts.

  • Verify that all communication protocols between systems are compatible and fully functional.

  • Inspect, coordinate and oversee all system integration testing (SIT), ensuring that testing protocols and sequencing are clearly defined and jointly reviewed by all involved parties.

  • Facilitate cross-discipline coordination meetings to track readiness, progress, and resolution of systems testing and integration issues.

  • Review and comment on contractor and vendor test plans, procedures, and interface designs to ensure compliance with project requirements.

  • Monitor and report on system readiness for LFAT, integration testing, revenue service simulations, and final commissioning.

  • Monitor and report on compliance with relevant transit authority standards, safety requirements, and industry codes.

  • Prepare and deliver regular QC inspections and progress reports.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.

  • 5+ years of experience in systems within the transit, rail, or transportation infrastructure sector.

  • Proven experience with heavy rail passenger projects, particularly with system interfaces and integration testing.

  • Good understanding of electrical systems, communications networks, fire/life safety, traction power, train control, and SCADA systems.

  • Strong knowledge of industry standards such as IEEE, NFPA, AREMA, and NEMA, as well as transit authority integration practices (e.g., Metro, MTA, WMATA, etc.).

  • Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, and comment on complex technical drawings, schematics, and interface documents.

  • Familiarity with system interface matrices, test sequencing, and commissioning documentation.

  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with strong verbal and written communication abilities.

  • Ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams and manage multiple priorities under pressure.

OUR MISSION

We build critical infrastructure that creates a better world.

OUR VISION

We strive to be the preeminent full-service civil, building, and specialty contractor by delivering innovative, transformative projects through world-class execution. We are committed to creating lasting value for our customers, upholding the highest standards of safety and integrity, generating exceptional financial results and shareholder value, and fostering a culture where our employees thrive.

Tutor Perini builds extraordinary projects, which need exceptional talent. Join us, to help build the critical infrastructure that creates a better world.

Equal Opportunity Employer