Lead Electrical Engineer

Lead Electrical Engineer – Walnut Creek, CA

At NV5, we recognize the increasing demands on the U.S. electrical grid and the challenges in modernizing power delivery infrastructure. Our team is dedicated to designing and implementing innovative solutions for distribution and substation projects across utilities, municipalities, and private clients.

We are looking for an Lead Electrical Engineer with experience in distribution and substation design, including medium-voltage (MV) and high-voltage (HV) systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in power system modeling, utility infrastructure, relay coordination, renewable energies and microgrid integration, along with an ability to work independently and mentor others.

This position is based in our Walnut Creek, CA office. Hybrid/remote flexibility may be available after the initial training period.

Why Join NV5?

• Work on diverse and cutting-edge projects, including substation design, BESS integration, EV infrastructure planning, and distribution system upgrades.
• Collaborate with industry-leading utilities, municipalities, and private clients, gaining exposure to a broad range of challenges and solutions.
• Gain experience with power system modeling, distribution design and grid modernization efforts.
• Mentorship and growth opportunities from advancing technical expertise and leading project teams.
• Flexible hybrid work environment with potential for parttime remote work after training.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work with a team to design and develop distribution and substation projects, including MV/LV transformers, switchgear, protection & control schemes, and service connections.
• Conduct power system modeling and studies in ETAP, SKM, or CYME, including load flow, short circuit, and coordination analysis.
• Design overhead and underground distribution systems, including selecting and specifying equipment such as poles, conductors, transformers, switchgear, and protective devices.
• Perform relay settings development and implementation, using tools such as SEL AcSELerator, GE Enervista, ASPEN, or equivalent.
• Troubleshoot relay, SCADA, and recloser protection issues, working closely with field teams.
• Provide technical support for battery energy storage systems (BESS) design and grid integration.
• Work with vendors and construction crews to ensure proper equipment procurement and installation.
• Coordinate with drafting resources to develop complete construction packages, including one-line diagrams, plan and profile drawings, and detailed specifications.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including civil engineers, to ensure project success.
• Assist in mentoring junior engineers and contribute to knowledge-sharing within the team.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (or related field).
• EIT or PE license preferred but not required.
• 5+ years of experience in utility, consulting, or substation design engineering.
• Proficiency with relay settings and programming using SEL, GE, or other major manufacturer software.
• Experience with power system modeling software, including ETAP, SKM, CYME, ASPEN, or similar.
• Experience with SCADA integration and communications protocols is a plus.
• Familiarity with civil and structural aspects of substation design is beneficial, though not required.

Compensation & Benefits:

The salary range for this position is $130,000 - $160,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Additional compensation may include restricted stock units, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package covering medical, dental, PTO, 401(k), and professional development opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Recruitment & Staffing Agencies: NV5 Inc does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than passive & active candidates and employee referrals. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to NV5 or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by NV5's internal Talent Acquisition team seeking 3rd party sourcing assistance. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement and given permission to represent NV5 to candidates on a particular search, NV5 will not owe any referral or other fees with respect to the unsolicited submission.

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