Director of Utility Engineering Department

Director of Utility Engineering Department

At EKN Engineering, we solve challenging problems with innovative engineering and configurable software solutions. We use an engineering-first approach, combined with data-driven strategies, to improve overall compliance, risk management, and design accuracy tailored to the specific needs of each client.

With decades of experience in engineering, our team of over 160 professionals in Irvine, California is dedicated to building a safer and more efficient tomorrow through engineering and technological innovation.

Role Overview: EKN Engineering is seeking a dynamic and driven engineering leader to oversee our Utility Engineering department. This individual will take over departmental leadership responsibilities, allowing our current department head to transition into a subject matter expert role focused on core utility engineering.

We’re looking for someone with both technical expertise and business acumen—a leader who can manage engineering design while driving business growth, operational excellence, and high-performance project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Utility Engineering department, overseeing design, quality, and project execution across distribution, tower, pole, and overhead/underground utility systems, etc.
• Develop and manage large-scale utility engineering projects from conception to delivery
• Serve as a technical and strategic partner for internal teams and external utility clients
• Improve business operations within the department, with a focus on profitability, scalability, and process optimization
• Foster a culture of accountability, quality, and continuous improvement across the team
• Collaborate with executive leadership to support company growth and client development initiatives
• Mentor engineers and project managers to strengthen leadership and technical capabilities
• Interface with high-value clients and represent EKN in strategic discussions
• Act as a key contributor to turnaround projects or organizational improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications

• Educational background in Civil, Electrical, or Structural Engineering
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in California is desired
• 10+ years of engineering experience within power utilities engineering projects, experience in utility distribution and/or T-Line systems (towers, poles, etc.) is a plus
• Strong background in both technical design and project/business management
• Experience managing teams and overseeing complex engineering projects
• Demonstrated ability to deliver results in fast-paced, high-stakes environments
• Self-starter with an “A-type” personality—confident, assertive, and driven
• Strong communication, leadership, and business development skills
• California resident

Why Join Us:

At EKN Engineering, you’ll be part of a company that values innovation and accountability and supports our employees' professional growth and personal development. Here, you’ll work with teams that push the boundaries of engineering to create solutions that enhance our communities and the environment by making utilities safer.

Benefits & Perks 

• 100% Company-Paid Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance – Comprehensive coverage to support your health and well-being. 

• 401(k) with Company Match – We invest in your future with a dollar-for-dollar match on contributions. 

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – Set aside pre-tax dollars for qualified healthcare and dependent care expenses. 

• Exclusive Employee Discounts – Access our BenefitsHub for savings on travel, rental cars, hotels, theme parks, and more. 

• Monthly Catered Lunches & Daily Office Snacks – Enjoy a well-stocked kitchen and regular team meals to keep you fueled throughout the day. 

• Employee Engagement & Wellness – We value connection and balance. Our team enjoys a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including hiking outings, summer BBQs, sports games, holiday celebrations, and dedicated team-building days. 
• JOYA Health Membership – Access to over $1,000 in annual skin health and wellness benefits, including complimentary facials or peels, aesthetic service credits, priority skin cancer screenings, teledermatology services, and discounts on skincare products. 
• Wellness Perks & Support Programs – Access a variety of wellness resources including discounted gym memberships through One Pass, mental health and self-care tools via AbleTo and Calm.

Public Warning: Recruitment Phishing Scam Impersonating EKN Engineering

EKN Engineering has become aware of a phishing scheme targeting individuals with fraudulent interview requests and job offers. EKN’s secure IT systems and private applicant information have not been compromised; scammers are impersonating EKN employees, using the company name and branding to mislead and engage potential job seekers in fake recruitment processes. Scammers might reference real job openings or describe fake opportunities that generally match individuals’ professional backgrounds, with the goal of establishing communication and eventually obtaining private financial information to defraud people. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Federal Trade Commission warn that employment scams such as this are a growing cyber threat. EKN urges anyone who is contacted about employment opportunities to exercise caution and know that:

• All communication from EKN Engineering will be from an EKN employee using the @eknengineering.com email domain. We do not use third-party recruiters.
• EKN Engineering recruiters will only schedule interviews for candidates who have applied for a position through our secure portal.
• No corporate or IT systems at EKN are affected by this scam. The scammers are using EKN’s logo and employee names to impersonate the company.
• You can directly contact us at [email protected] with any questions or concerns.

EKN is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our community. We caution individuals to be vigilant in protecting personal data and vetting communication with new contacts from any company. Do not respond or provide any personal information if contacted by someone claiming to represent a company to which you did not submit a job application or profile. This scam can be perpetrated against any business and individuals who recognize and trust its name.

For information on EKN recruitment practices and policies, please visit our career page or email [email protected]. To report a scam, visit: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov//.