Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs in California
Are you an experienced electrical engineer with a strong background in overhead transmission line construction? We are looking for an Overhead Line Construction Engineer to join a leading utility infrastructure company in California. This is an exciting opportunity to work on high-voltage power projects that keep California connected. If you’re passionate about energy, safety, and building the grid of the future, this role offers a rewarding career path in a fast-evolving industry.
Power California’s Grid with Cutting-Edge Engineering
A top-tier infrastructure firm is seeking an Overhead Line Construction Engineer in California to support the development and execution of critical transmission projects across the state. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with 69kV to 500kV systems, a strong understanding of utility construction standards, and a commitment to ensuring safety and compliance. Be part of a team that’s modernizing the power grid and delivering reliable energy to millions.
Key Responsibilities of the Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs in California
Project Planning & Execution:
Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of overhead line construction projects, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery. Interpret engineering drawings and project specifications to guide field operations and construction teams.
Technical Oversight:
Provide technical expertise in the construction of transmission and distribution overhead lines, including pole installation, conductor stringing, and structure assembly. Ensure all engineering and construction activities adhere to industry standards and safety regulations.
Quality & Compliance Assurance:
Monitor construction processes to guarantee compliance with company policies, utility standards, and local/state regulations. Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure quality workmanship and mitigate potential risks.
Team Coordination & Leadership:
Collaborate with project managers, field engineers, and subcontractors to ensure efficient resource allocation and communication across teams. Lead field crews by providing technical direction and resolving on-site challenges promptly.
Safety Management:
Implement and enforce strict safety protocols on all job sites. Promote a culture of safety and accountability, ensuring all team members follow OSHA guidelines and company safety programs.
Budget & Schedule Management:
Assist in project budgeting, forecasting, and progress tracking. Identify cost-saving opportunities and help maintain project schedules to avoid delays and budget overruns.
Stakeholder Communication:
Act as a liaison between engineering, construction teams, utility clients, and regulatory authorities. Provide clear project updates, status reports, and technical support to internal and external stakeholders.
Site Surveys & Environmental Considerations:
Conduct site assessments and environmental evaluations to inform project planning. Address terrain challenges, right-of-way issues, and other logistical constraints that may impact construction timelines.
Material & Equipment Management:
Oversee procurement, transportation, and deployment of materials and construction equipment. Ensure proper inventory control, equipment maintenance, and timely availability to avoid disruptions.
Continuous Improvement & Innovation:
Contribute to process improvements and innovation in construction practices. Stay informed on industry advancements in overhead line systems and incorporate best practices to optimize project outcomes.
What the Client is Looking for in You
For the Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs in California, the client is seeking a skilled and dependable engineering professional with hands-on experience in utility-scale construction projects. You should be a detail-oriented problem solver who thrives in dynamic environments and can execute complex projects with precision and safety at the forefront.
Experienced Utility Construction Specialist
The ideal candidate for Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs will have a strong background in electrical transmission and distribution systems, especially in high-voltage overhead line projects. You should bring technical expertise in construction methodologies, field engineering, and utility regulations. Experience working with voltages ranging from 69kV to 500kV will be highly valued.
Strong Technical and Project Management Skills
You are expected to demonstrate the ability to manage construction sites efficiently while ensuring compliance with engineering plans and safety codes. The client is looking for someone who can coordinate with cross-functional teams, manage timelines and budgets, and deliver quality outcomes even in challenging conditions.
Commitment to Safety and Compliance
Safety is paramount in all Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs, and the client requires someone with a strong track record of promoting and maintaining OSHA-compliant practices. Familiarity with NESC, CPUC General Orders, and other regulatory standards is critical to this role.
Effective Communicator and Collaborator
You must be adept at liaising with project managers, subcontractors, inspectors, and utility companies. Clear communication and the ability to solve on-site challenges quickly and efficiently are key traits the client is looking for. Your interpersonal skills should foster strong teamwork and project continuity.
Analytical Thinker with Problem-Solving Capabilities
The client values engineers who can assess field data, identify technical bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions. Your ability to anticipate construction obstacles and offer strategic solutions is crucial for maintaining project momentum and meeting deadlines.
Adaptability and Field-Readiness
For Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs, readiness to work in varied site conditions across California—whether urban, suburban, or rural—is essential. The client seeks individuals who are comfortable working outdoors, managing field crews, and adapting to project-specific challenges as they arise.
Driven by Quality, Efficiency, and Results
Above all, the client is looking for an engineer who is committed to delivering excellence in every phase of construction. You should have a continuous improvement mindset and the drive to exceed quality, schedule, and safety benchmarks on all assigned projects.
FAQs About the Role – Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs in California
1. What are the key responsibilities of this role?
Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs involve overseeing the construction and maintenance of high-voltage overhead transmission and distribution lines. Your responsibilities include project planning, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, supervising field crews, managing materials and equipment, and coordinating with stakeholders to ensure timely project completion.
2. What qualifications and experience are required for Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs?
The ideal candidate should hold a degree in Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field. You should have 3+ years of experience in overhead line construction, ideally with exposure to 69kV–500kV systems. Knowledge of utility standards, OSHA regulations, and tools like AutoCAD or PLS-CADD is often required. A Professional Engineer (PE) license is a plus.
3. What are the most important skills for success in this role?
Candidates for Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs should possess strong technical and project management skills, excellent problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to job site safety. Effective communication, the ability to work in cross-functional teams, and attention to detail are also essential.
4. What type of projects will I be working on?
You’ll work on utility-scale overhead line projects across California, including new transmission line builds, reconductoring, pole replacements, and infrastructure upgrades. These projects may vary based on terrain, voltage levels, and utility client requirements.
5. What are the typical work conditions and locations?
Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs often require travel to various outdoor job sites across urban, suburban, and remote areas in California. You must be comfortable working in different weather conditions, with occasional overnight stays depending on project location.
6. How does this role contribute to the organization’s mission?
As an Overhead Line Construction Engineer, you play a critical role in supporting California’s power infrastructure. Your work ensures the safe and reliable delivery of electricity to homes and businesses, helping the organization achieve its goals of sustainability, operational excellence, and community impact.
7. Is safety training or certification required?
Yes, safety is a top priority for all Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs. You must either possess or be willing to obtain certifications such as OSHA 30, CPR/First Aid, and utility-specific safety training. Ongoing education on safety protocols is typically provided by the employer.
8. What career growth opportunities are available in this role?
This role offers strong advancement potential. Engineers may progress into senior engineering positions, project management, or utility operations leadership. Exposure to large-scale projects and cross-departmental collaboration can also open doors to broader roles in the energy sector.
What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?
For Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs in California, you can expect a competitive compensation package reflective of your skills, experience level, and the complexity of utility and infrastructure projects in the region. Here’s a breakdown of what is typically offered:
1. Base Salary
The base salary for Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs generally ranges from $85,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on qualifications, certifications, and years of field experience. Senior-level engineers or those with PE licensure may command higher base salaries, especially in high-demand areas.
2. Overtime & Field Premiums
Given the field-intensive nature of the role, engineers often receive overtime pay or fieldwork differentials for extended shifts, weekend work, or remote-site projects. This can significantly increase total annual earnings.
3. Performance Bonuses
Many companies offer performance-based incentives tied to safety milestones, project delivery metrics, and client satisfaction. These bonuses can add an additional 5%–15% of your annual base salary.
4. Travel & Per Diem Allowances
For engineers working on multiple remote projects, employers may provide travel stipends, daily per diem allowances, and lodging support. These benefits help offset the cost of working away from home and vary by employer and project location.
5. Benefits Package
Typical benefits for Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs include:
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) plans with employer matching
Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
Tuition assistance or continuing education reimbursement
Life and disability insurance
6. Certifications & Training Support
Many employers cover the costs of maintaining industry certifications (e.g., OSHA 30, CPR/First Aid, NESC training), and offer ongoing professional development opportunities that add long-term value to your career.
7. Relocation Assistance
For high-priority roles in California, some companies offer relocation assistance or signing bonuses for qualified candidates willing to move. These can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the employer and project urgency.
Total Compensation Potential
When you combine base salary, overtime, bonuses, and benefits, total annual compensation for Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs can range between $100,000 and $160,000 or more. Experienced engineers with project management responsibilities may exceed this range, especially when working on major utility or renewable energy infrastructure projects in California.
How to Apply
If you are a qualified and motivated professional seeking to advance your career in utility infrastructure, we encourage you to apply for one of our Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs in California. This is a prime opportunity to work on high-impact transmission and distribution projects that power communities across the state.
To apply, please submit your updated resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your experience in overhead line construction, electrical or civil engineering, field project execution, safety compliance, and utility standards. Be sure to include specific details about the voltages you’ve worked with, your familiarity with construction codes (e.g., NESC, OSHA), and your ability to lead or support multidisciplinary field teams.
These Overhead Line Construction Engineer Jobs offer a rewarding, hands-on career path in a dynamic and essential sector. You’ll gain exposure to major infrastructure projects while contributing to the modernization and resilience of California’s power grid.
Apply today to join a team of experts delivering innovation, safety, and reliability to utility clients across the region.
For more details or to browse similar roles, visit our T&D Transmission and distribution construction Recruitment Page.
Tags:
Overhead Line Construction Engineer | Utility Infrastructure Jobs | Electrical Transmission Engineer | Field Engineer California | High Voltage Construction | Power Grid Projects | Utility Compliance | Energy Sector Engineering | Transmission Line Jobs California
