Project Engineer - Substation/BESS
The Project Engineer supports electrical substation and BESS construction projects by assisting project managers and superintendents with execution, documentation, cost tracking, and coordination among field crews, vendors, and utility representatives. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills to ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and within budget, with active involvement both in the office and on construction sites throughout California.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, utility and power infrastructure construction.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring a Project Engineer to support electrical substation and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) construction projects. You will work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, field crews, subcontractors, vendors, engineers, and utility representatives to help ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with project plans and specifications.
- Assist the Project Manager and Superintendent with day-to-day project execution
- Review project plans, specifications, contracts, and construction documents
- Prepare and track RFIs, submittals, change orders, and project correspondence
- Maintain project logs, document control, and drawing revisions
- Assist with procurement and coordinate material deliveries with vendors and field personnel
- Track quantities, production, labor, equipment, and subcontractor activities
- Support project cost tracking, forecasting, and budget management
- Review subcontractor and vendor invoices for accuracy and assist with T&M documentation
- Support development and maintenance of project schedules and look-aheads
- Participate in project meetings; prepare meeting notes and action items
- Coordinate with utility representatives, inspectors, engineers, and subcontractors
- Assist with quality control documentation, inspections, and testing
- Maintain accurate as-builts and project records; support startup, commissioning, punch lists, and closeout
- Promote and support site safety requirements and company safety programs
Typical Substation & BESS Work
Projects may include, but are not limited to:
- Site grading and earthwork
- Underground electrical duct banks
- Concrete equipment foundations; drilled pier and mat foundations
- Grounding systems, electrical trenches and vaults
- Structural steel, conduit installation, cable installation and terminations
- Control buildings, substation fencing and security
- Storm drainage and site improvements
- High-voltage substation equipment installation
- Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) installation and commissioning support
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field preferred
- 1–5 years construction experience preferred; strong entry-level candidates will be considered
- Experience in electrical substation, utility, renewable energy, heavy civil, or industrial construction is a plus
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
- Strong computer skills (Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook; project-management/document-control software)
- Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
- Comfortable working in an office and active construction environments
- Willingness to travel to project sites throughout California as required
- Valid driver’s license required
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $80,000–$110,000 annually (dependant on experience and qualifications)
- Benefits include:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k)
- Paid vacation and holidays
- Company-provided or reimbursed travel as applicable
- Training, development, and career advancement opportunities
- Work on major utility infrastructure and BESS projects
Logistics & Role Details
- Job Type: Full-time
- Work Environment: Office and construction sites
- Travel: Project-dependent throughout California
About Confidential Client
Confidential Client is a heavy civil and utility contractor that performs complex civil and electrical construction in demanding utility environments where safety, quality, schedule, and execution are critical. The organization seeks individuals who want to develop into future project managers and leaders.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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