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Job Overview This posting is for a Utilities Engineer with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in San Francisco, CA. The role focuses on distribution grid planning, energy storage, grid modernization, and DER integration to support California’s climate and electrification goals. The position is full-time, permanent, and hybrid in location (San Francisco County).

Responsibilities

Support and lead development of work products informing Commissioners, Administrative Law Judges, and Energy Division leadership.

Oversee utility distribution planning, including load forecasting, DER growth modeling, and electrification impact analysis.

Lead or support analysis and implementation of distributed energy resource integration, smart inverters, non-wires alternatives, and grid modernization strategies.

Provide technical leadership in CPUC proceedings and collaborate with external stakeholders such as the California Energy Commission (CEC) and California Independent System Operator (CAISO).

Manage technical contractors and support research into future distribution system operations.

Analyze utility filings, develop policy recommendations, and contribute to staff proposals in CPUC rulemakings.

Conduct original engineering and policy research to evaluate grid needs and DER solutions to help meet California’s climate and energy targets.

Who You Are

We’re seeking creative, technically skilled, and solutions-oriented engineers who thrive in collaborative, fast-paced environments. The ideal candidate will:

Have strong analytical and quantitative skills, with an understanding of electric power systems, DER technologies, and grid operations.

Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Bring experience or interest in utility planning, clean energy technologies, and data-driven policy.

Be self-motivated, intellectually curious, and eager to help solve California’s energy and climate challenges.

Why Join Us

Help shape the future of California’s energy system and clean energy leadership.

Work with a collaborative team tackling cutting-edge energy and climate issues.

Develop professionally through impactful assignments in a high-visibility policy environment.

Join a mission-driven organization focused on innovation, sustainability, and public service.

Position Details Job Code #: JC-495330

Position(s): 680-328-3518-008

Working Title: Distribution Planning Utility Engineer

Classification: UTILITIES ENGINEER

Salary: $6,488.00 - $12,152.00

Effective July 1, 2025 – CalHR Personal Leave Program (PLP) 2025 with Pay Differential 386. Salary ranges exclude the temporary reduction. Details at CalHR PLP page.

Number of Positions: 1

Work Location: San Francisco County

Telework: Hybrid

Job Type: Permanent, Full Time

Department Information Energy Division / Distribution Planning Branch / Grid Planning, Energy Storage and Non-Wires Alternatives Section. The CPUC leads California’s clean energy and climate goals, including a 100 percent clean energy future by 2045. We focus on modernizing the electric distribution grid, DER integration, and safe, reliable, affordable service.

We are committed to a diverse and inclusive team and encourage applications from all backgrounds and abilities. For more opportunities, visit Energy Division recruitment pages. Federal Workers, California Welcomes You!

Department Website: http://www.cpuc.ca.gov

Qualifying Information Job Description and Duties

Eligibility is required. If you are new to state service or need to gain eligibility, follow the examination bulletin instructions. The examination process is separate from applying for this vacancy. Virtual interviews may be offered; in-person interviews are also available where conditions permit.

We are seeking a Utilities Engineer to join a mission-driven team. The successful candidate will shape and implement policy for distribution grid planning, energy storage, and grid modernization, preparing the grid for high electrification, DER integration, and clean energy goals.

What You’ll Do

Lead and support technical analyses informing high-level decision-makers.

Oversee load forecasting, DER growth modeling, and electrification impact analysis.

Evaluate and implement DER integration, smart inverters, non-wires alternatives, and grid modernization strategies.

Collaborate with CEC, CAISO, and other stakeholders; manage technical contractors; support research into future grid operations.

Analyze utility filings, develop policy recommendations, and contribute to staff proposals in CPUC rulemakings.

Conduct engineering and policy research to evaluate grid needs and DER solutions for climate targets.

Required Qualifications

Strong analytical and quantitative skills with understanding of electric power systems, DER technologies, and grid operations.

Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

Experience or interest in utility planning, clean energy technologies, and data-driven policy.

Self-motivated, intellectually curious, and motivated to solve California’s energy challenges.

Additional Information

How to apply guidance and required documents (STD 678, resume, SOQ) are provided on the job posting. A fully completed STD 678 with detailed experience is required. SOQ must address three questions and follow formatting guidelines. Official transcripts may be required prior to appointment for education.

Application deadline: Final Filing Date 10/24/2025. State application instructions and contact information are included in the posting.

Other Details

Seniority level: Entry level

Employment type: Full-time

Industry: Government Administration

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