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Utility Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Project Engineer - Underground Wet Utilities We're seeking a Project Engineer to join our growing team and support small to mid-sized underground wet utility projects across the Western United States

Project Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$115K/yr

Project Engineer - San Francisco Bay, CA - Contract - ID# 6730 Are you ready to make an impact in ... Strong understanding of utility standards, regulatory compliance, and IOU governance frameworks

Electric Utility Project Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

$135K - $200K/yr

About Exponent Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the ... Managing and coordinating with project teams and stakeholders (e.g. utility team members, engineers ...

Overview NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector ... Dry Utility Project Managers oversee the design and construction of energy infrastructure projects ...

Dry Utility Project Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100 - $145/hr

Overview NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector ... Dry Utility Project Managers oversee the design and construction of energy infrastructure projects ...

Overview NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector ... Dry Utility Project Managers oversee the design and construction of energy infrastructure projects ...

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Utility Project Engineer information

What is a utility project engineer?

Utility Project Engineers are professionals who plan, design, and manage construction or improvement projects related to utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and telecommunications. They coordinate with various stakeholders to ensure that utility systems are safely and efficiently integrated into infrastructure projects. Their responsibilities include overseeing project timelines, budgets, regulatory compliance, and technical specifications to ensure successful project completion.

How does a utility project engineer typically collaborate with other departments during large infrastructure projects?

Utility Project Engineers work closely with a variety of departments such as design, construction, environmental compliance, and procurement. Collaboration often involves coordinating project schedules, ensuring regulatory requirements are met, and resolving technical challenges as they arise. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for integrating the efforts of multiple stakeholders, including contractors, utility companies, and local authorities. This cross-functional interaction helps ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to safety and quality standards.

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

To thrive as a Utility Project Engineer, you need strong project management abilities, a solid background in civil or electrical engineering, and a relevant engineering degree, often accompanied by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, GIS platforms, and project management tools, as well as knowledge of utility regulations, is crucial. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help coordinate with stakeholders and manage project challenges effectively. These competencies are vital to ensure safe, timely, and cost-effective delivery of utility infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Utility Project Engineer vs Utility Construction Manager?

AspectUtility Project EngineerUtility Construction Manager
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in engineering or construction management, PE license advantageous
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, project coordinationOn-site supervision, construction oversight
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, engineering firmsUtility companies, construction contractors

Utility Project Engineers focus on planning, design, and project coordination, while Utility Construction Managers oversee on-site construction activities. Both roles require engineering credentials and work within utility industries, but their primary responsibilities differ between planning and execution.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Project Engineer jobs in California?

For Utility Project Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Project Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Project Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Utility Project Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Utility Project Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Project Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Wet Utility Project Manager

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Our client is a well-established underground utility contractor seeking a Wet Utility Project Manager to join their growing team in San Diego, California. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated construction professional who is passionate about delivering complex underground infrastructure projects and advancing their career with a respected contractor.

The Project Manager will be responsible for overseeing the successful planning, execution, and completion of underground utility projects involving water, sewer, and storm drain systems throughout the San Diego region.

Assistant Project Managers and Senior Project Engineers with strong wet utility construction experience are encouraged to apply.



Responsibilities
  • Manage underground wet utility construction projects from award through closeout.
  • Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and forecasts.
  • Coordinate with owners, municipalities, subcontractors, vendors, inspectors, and field personnel.
  • Review project plans, specifications, contracts, and bid documents.
  • Track project costs, production, labor, equipment, and materials.
  • Manage change orders, RFIs, submittals, and procurement activities.
  • Ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with quality standards.
  • Support project estimators and field leadership during project startup and execution.
  • Attend project meetings and maintain strong client relationships.
  • Assist with project planning, manpower forecasting, and resource allocation.


Qualifications
  • 3-5 years of recent experience managing underground wet utility construction projects.
  • Demonstrated experience working on:
    • Water distribution systems
    • Water transmission pipelines
    • Sewer collection systems
    • Storm drain systems
  • Strong understanding of underground utility construction means and methods.
  • Experience with public works, municipal, and/or private development projects.
  • Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, contracts, and schedules.
  • Knowledge of project budgeting, cost control, forecasting, and change management.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and construction management software such as Procore, Bluebeam, HCSS, Spectrum, or similar platforms.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience managing projects for cities, counties, water districts, and other public agencies.
  • Understanding of California public works practices, prevailing wage requirements, and utility agency standards.


Why Join?
  • Competitive base salary
  • Annual bonus opportunities
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Vehicle allowance or company vehicle
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Long-term career growth opportunities
  • Stable backlog of underground utility work throughout Southern California

If you are a Project Manager, Assistant Project Manager, or Senior Project Engineer with a strong background in water, sewer, and storm drain construction, we encourage you to apply and take the next step in your career with a leading underground utility contractor in San Diego.


Company Description

LVI Associates exists to enable exceptional careers around the world; we connect exceptional talent, with exceptional opportunities.

We believe that every professional should benefit from the advice of a trusted partner throughout their career.

We provide that partnership to mid to senior level professionals within the Energy, Environmental & Infrastructure spaces through our network of micro-specialist consultants.

Each team within LVI Associates focuses on a specialist area of Energy & Infrastructure. I specialise in sourcing and placing senior level candidates within the bridges and highway construction spaces.

Make LVI Associates your career partner; ensure your career journey is exceptional.