Engineer I
About Ampirical
At Ampirical, we're shaping the future of the power grid with precision, innovation, and purpose. Just as the ampere is the foundation of electric current, Ampirical is a core force driving the energy sector forward. We focus on quality, forward-thinking solutions, and empowering our team to grow and thrive.
We don’t just build projects—we build careers. If you’re looking for a place where your contributions matter and your professional development is supported every step of the way, we’d love to meet you. Watch this video to get a glimpse into our culture.
Why Ampirical?
💰 Salary Range: $76,016-$112,492 - Commensurate (dependent on experience, education, and qualifications)
📈 Profit-Sharing Bonus: Semi-annual, performance-based (10% to 20% of salary)
🩺 Day-One Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision
💼 401(k) with 4% match and immediate vesting
🏖️ PTO: Starting at 80 hours of vacation & 40 hours of sick time per year + 10 paid holidays
🗓️ Flexible Work Schedule: Every other Friday off
📚 Career Development: Advancement opportunities, tuition reimbursement
🧘 Perks: Gym membership stipend, wellness program, fertility benefits, pet insurance, and more
Your Role: Engineer I
The Engineer I — T&D is an entry-level licensed engineering position responsible for building foundational knowledge and skills in transmission and distribution line design within a non-manufacturing electric utilities services company. Working under close supervision, this role participates in technical drawing tasks, basic system modeling and analysis, GIS-supported workflows, and structured learning to develop competency in T&D engineering principles, applicable codes and standards, and industry software tools. The Engineer I contributes to low-complexity project work, engages in team collaboration, and gains exposure to client communication and field observation. 4-Year ABET-accredited Engineering degree required; FE exam required; 0+ years of experience.
What You’ll Do
Technical Design & Drawing
Develop foundational knowledge of T&D line design principles including structure types, conductor selection, overhead and underground configurations, and voltage levels applicable to transmission and distribution systems.
Develop a basic understanding of T&D hardware and materials including conductors, insulators, structures, poles, and associated hardware; observe field applications and learn compatibility and safety requirements.
Assist with basic drawing tasks for T&D projects including plan-and-profile sheets, one-line diagrams, and distribution line designs; assist with redlining and updating existing drawings under close supervision.
Complete low-complexity T&D design work under high oversight; develop accuracy and consistency in assigned engineering tasks under the direction of senior engineers.
Analysis, Modeling & Software Tools
Develop basic proficiency with T&D line simulation and analysis tools; assist with simple models and result interpretation under close supervision.
Demonstrate basic proficiency in transmission pole and structure modeling software and distribution design tools used for line design.
Demonstrate working knowledge of GIS systems; utilize GIS maps to support basic T&D line design and planning tasks under close supervision.
Demonstrate basic proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) for documentation and reporting; use Bluebeam for reviewing and marking up project documents.
Develop basic familiarity with Google Earth for locating coordinates, evaluating terrain, and supporting T&D design and planning tasks.
Project Execution & Standards Compliance
Demonstrate understanding of schedule and budget expectations by completing assigned tasks on time and within scope; communicate progress to project leads.
Follow basic governing codes and industry standards including NESC, NEC, GO95 and IEEE applicable to T&D engineering under close supervision; develop familiarity with standard requirements and their application.
Be introduced to client-specific T&D standards; apply client standards with high oversight from senior staff.
Review own work for obvious errors before submitting for formal QC review; expect heavy markups and use feedback constructively to improve work quality.
Field Observation, Collaboration & Client Engagement
Participate in basic field visits with close supervision; observe T&D line field conditions and construction practices; gain familiarity with safety protocols and PPE requirements.
Participate in team discussions and follow direction from senior staff; contribute to group T&D engineering tasks with guidance.
Develop basic understanding of client communication; attend client meetings as an observer; review client feedback with senior engineers.
What You Bring
Entry-level position; no prior professional experience required. Internship, co-op, or coursework experience in T&D engineering, power systems, or a related utility field is a plus.
4-Year ABET-accredited Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam passed or actively pursuing; EIT credential a plus.
Basic familiarity with T&D line design concepts, electric grid components, and engineering drawings; exposure to GIS platforms and Google Earth is a plus.
Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Bluebeam; willingness to learn T&D-specific simulation, pole modeling, and distribution design tools
Strong attention to detail, reliability, and willingness to learn; effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to follow direction from senior staff.
Ampirical is an Equal Opportunity Employer, meaning we do not discriminate based on the following characteristics in our hiring and employment practices: Age, sex, color, race, creed, national origin, religion or religious attire, marital status, pregnancy (child birth or related medical conditions), citizenship status or amnesty, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, sickle-cell trait, status as a tobacco user or non-user, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.
- Department
- Trans & Dist
- Role
- Engineer I
- Location
- San Diego Office