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Utility Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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... utility design and roadway improvements. The candidate must be knowledgeable in various agency requirements and procedures, the California Building Code, Americans with Disability Act and the ...

Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial Technology. With offices nationwide and abroad, NV5 helps clients plan, design, build, test, certify ...

What You'll Do As our Utility Locator , you'll perform utility investigations, collect and interpret field data, and develop accurate utility mapping to support engineering, design, and construction ...

Utility Locator

Roseville, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

What You'll Do As our Utility Locator , you'll perform utility investigations, collect and interpret field data, and develop accurate utility mapping to support engineering, design, and construction ...

Utility Locator

Roseville, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

What You'll Do As our Utility Locator , you'll perform utility investigations, collect and interpret field data, and develop accurate utility mapping to support engineering, design, and construction ...

Civil Senior Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$135K - $175K/yr

Utility Design and Coordination * Sustainability, LID and Stormwater Management * Land Development QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIRED SKILLS * BS Degree in Civil Engineering. * 5+ Years of Work Experience. * PE.

Civil Senior Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$135K - $175K/yr

Utility Design and Coordination * Sustainability, LID and Stormwater Management * Land Development QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIRED SKILLS * BS Degree in Civil Engineering. * 5+ Years of Work Experience. * PE.

... utility design experience • Construction inspection experience • Environmental permitting and planning experience • GIS mapping and data analysis experience • Master's Degree in a related ...

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Utility Design information

See California salary details

$13

$18

$26

How much do utility design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility design in California is $18.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is utility design?

Utility design is the process of planning, drafting, and engineering the layout and installation of essential services such as electricity, water, gas, sewage, and telecommunications within infrastructure projects. Utility designers ensure that these systems are efficiently integrated into new or existing developments, comply with regulations, and meet the needs of users. Their work involves collaborating with engineers, architects, and utility companies to create detailed plans that minimize conflicts and optimize service delivery. Utility design is essential for safe, functional, and sustainable infrastructure.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Utility Design role, and how can I prepare to address them?

Professionals in Utility Design often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders (engineers, contractors, government agencies) and navigating regulatory requirements for permits and safety standards. Managing these complexities requires strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt designs based on field conditions or last-minute changes. Familiarity with industry-standard software (like AutoCAD or GIS) and staying updated on local codes can significantly ease the process. Proactively building collaborative relationships and maintaining organized project documentation are key strategies for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Design professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Design professional, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, utility systems, and relevant codes, typically supported by a degree in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, GIS platforms, and utility modeling tools, as well as certifications like EIT or PE, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and manage complex projects. These skills ensure accurate, safe, and efficient utility designs that meet regulatory standards and operational needs.

What is the difference between Utility Design vs Utility Engineering?

AspectUtility DesignUtility Engineering
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering; certifications varyRequires engineering degree and professional engineering (PE) license
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, project sites, collaboration with architects and clientsDesign firms, utility companies, project sites, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageUsed in planning and creating utility systems like water, power, and gasFocuses on the technical analysis, calculations, and implementation of utility systems

Utility Design involves creating plans for utility systems, while Utility Engineering emphasizes technical analysis and system implementation. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in focus and responsibilities within the utility industry.

Civil Engineer

Wheeler & Gray

Monrovia, CA

$85K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

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Job description


Wheeler & Gray is seeking a Civil Engineer with ten years of design experience and licensure in California as a Civil Engineer. Wheeler & Gray is a well established consulting firm with offices in Southern California and a backlog of work. The successful candidate will be responsible for design and preparation of construction documents for various types of Civil engineering projects, including storm drains, site grading, drainage and storm water mitigation, utility design and roadway improvements. The candidate must be knowledgeable in various agency requirements and procedures, the California Building Code, Americans with Disability Act and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. The candidate must have experience working in an environment which requires learning clients' specific methods and practices quickly and efficiently. The work will include travel to project sites throughout California, attending meetings with clients, coordinating with public agencies, utilities and contractors, and supervising staff.


The successful candidate will prepare and direct the preparation of drawings, specifications, construction cost estimates, studies, reports for various types and sizes of projects, such as storm drains, roads and streets, sanitary sewers, potable water transmission and distribution pipelines, grading, paving, site development and other public works systems. The successful candidate will supervise and direct one or more staff members. The candidate will perform field observations, attend project meetings, and coordinate multi-discipline projects.

Company Description

wheelerandgray.com