Senior Project Engineer in Microgrids and Distributed Energy
Schatz Energy Research Center at Cal Poly Humboldt
Based in Arcata, California
This position is based in Arcata, California, on the Cal Poly Humboldt campus. We are posting in the Greater Sacramento region for candidates who may be open to relocating to California's North Coast for a values-driven clean energy engineering role.
The Schatz Energy Research Center is hiring one to two Senior Project Engineers in Microgrids and Distributed Energy to support the development and implementation of clean energy microgrid and distributed energy projects.
Our microgrid and distributed energy work focuses on real-world projects that improve energy resilience, support Tribal energy sovereignty, and advance grid decarbonization. This role will support multiple large-scale microgrid projects with Tribal partners in Northern California. Projects include renewable energy generation, battery storage, and controls in community-serving energy systems.
This role is a strong fit for engineers with experience in public works construction, infrastructure, energy systems, construction-phase support, or similar project delivery environments.
The position will contribute to multiple phases of project delivery, including:
- Design coordination
- Technical analysis
- Construction support
- Integration and commissioning
- Planset and construction document review
- Coordination with internal teams, partners, contractors, vendors, and utilities
About the Schatz Center
Since 1989, the Schatz Center has been a leader in applied research and project development for clean and renewable energy. Our current work includes microgrid development, sustainable transportation design, carbon life cycle analysis, solar product testing, offshore wind feasibility studies, and planning and policy for clean energy access.
Our team is committed to addressing climate change and improving human and ecosystem health through work that supports clean energy, climate resilience, equity, and justice.
About living and working in Humboldt County
Humboldt County may be a strong fit for someone who values community-centered work, access to the outdoors, and a rural coastal setting near redwoods, Humboldt Bay, and the Pacific Ocean.
This role is based at the Schatz Center in Arcata, California. Staff may work onsite full-time or in a hybrid arrangement, with at least 40% onsite presence.
Minimum qualifications include:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent education, training, and experience
- At least 7 years of relevant professional experience in engineering, infrastructure, energy systems, or construction-related work
- Strong technical judgment, attention to detail, and communication skills
- Ability to coordinate across multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple priorities
Desirable, but not required:
- PE license, EIT certification, or interest in pursuing licensure
- Experience with public works projects
- Experience with design-bid-build or similar project delivery methods
- Experience with tools such as AutoCAD, Bluebeam, ETAP, Hypersim, or similar
Position details:
- Full-time, exempt, benefit-eligible position
- Based at the Schatz Center in Arcata, California
- Hybrid work option available, with at least 40% onsite presence
- Expected start date: late August 2026, with flexibility based on candidate availability
- Employed by the Cal Poly Humboldt Sponsored Programs Foundation
- This is not a California State University position
Compensation:
Full salary range: $7,579 to $12,963 per month
Anticipated hiring range: $7,579 to $9,213 per month, depending on skills and experience
Benefits include:
- Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, with employer covering 90% of premiums
- Paid holidays, vacation, sick leave, and personal leave
- 10% employer retirement contribution after one year of service
- Professional development support, mentorship, and opportunities to pursue licensure or certifications
Application review:
The first review of applications will be based on materials submitted by Wednesday, July 29, at 5:00pm Pacific. The position is open until filled.