PLS-CADD Engineer I

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

PLS-CADD Engineer I

People-Powered Innovation for Smarter, Sustainable Cities

At Zicali, we help utilities modernize the infrastructure communities depend on every day. From wildfire and storm hardening programs to grid modernization and renewable energy integration, our work supports a safer, more resilient, and more sustainable future.

We are a family-owned engineering and advisory firm built on collaboration, accountability, innovation, and real-world execution. Our team partners with utilities, municipalities, and industry leaders across Transmission & Distribution and Smart Utility initiatives to deliver thoughtful, high-quality solutions that perform in the field — not just on paper.

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented PLS-CADD Engineer I to join our growing engineering team. This role is ideal for an early-career engineer looking to develop technical expertise in utility design while working alongside experienced industry professionals on impactful infrastructure projects throughout California and beyond.

You’ll contribute primarily to power distribution and utility infrastructure projects while building foundational experience that can expand into transmission engineering, structural analysis, and broader grid modernization initiatives as your career develops. This role is designed to support long-term technical growth within the utility engineering industry.

What You’ll Do

• Prepare utility engineering design packages from concept through construction readiness in accordance with client standards, utility requirements, and applicable state and federal regulations
• Develop and modify models and drawings using tools such as PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, AutoCAD, and related engineering software
• Perform pole loading and structural analyses to support safe, reliable, and cost-effective utility infrastructure designs
• Assist with overhead and underground utility design projects related to wildfire mitigation, system hardening, grid modernization, and renewable energy integration
• Assemble construction drawing sets, technical documentation packages, calculations, exhibits, and supporting engineering deliverables
• Participate in field visits and site assessments to evaluate existing conditions, confirm constructability, and support engineering design decisions
• Coordinate with internal engineering teams, designers, project managers, clients, and utility stakeholders throughout project execution
• Support project schedules, quality control efforts, and continuous process improvement initiatives

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field
• 1+ year of engineering, utility, drafting, or infrastructure design experience preferred
• Familiarity with utility engineering concepts related to transmission and distribution systems
• Experience or exposure to software such as: PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, AutoCAD, O-Calc Pro, SPIDAcalc, MicroStation
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Collaborative mindset with a willingness to learn and grow within a team-oriented environment
• Adaptable and proactive with a strong sense of ownership and accountability

Preferred Qualifications

• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification
• Professional Engineering (PE) license
• Exposure to utility standards, GO-95 requirements, or structural loading analysis

Why Zicali

At Zicali, you won’t be siloed into a narrow role or lost in a massive corporate structure. Our engineers work closely with leadership, clients, and experienced industry professionals on projects that directly shape the future of utility infrastructure and sustainable communities.

Our engineering teams are intentionally cross-functional, giving developing engineers opportunities to expand beyond traditional distribution design into transmission, structural analysis, field engineering, and utility modernization programs over time.

We value curiosity, initiative, collaboration, and continuous growth. If you’re looking for a place where your work matters, your voice is heard, and your career can accelerate alongside a growing company, we’d love to hear from you.

Compensation & Benefits

Pay Range: $29.32 – $36.06 per hour ($61,000 – $75,000 annually), depending on experience and qualifications

Benefits Include

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program

Position Details

• Full-time
• Expected hours: 32–40 per week
• Monday through Friday
• Hybrid work environment
• San Diego, CA area