Subject Matter Expert (SME) - Electrical Engineer

Amentum•San Jose, CA

About The Position

The SME Electrical Engineer provides advanced technical leadership for the planning, design, analysis, and field execution of medium‑ and low‑voltage power distribution systems, with a strong emphasis on underground utility infrastructure. This role serves as the organization’s top technical authority, guiding engineering teams, supporting field operations, and ensuring compliance with industry standards, safety requirements, and project objectives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering; Master’s preferred.
15+ years of progressive experience in electrical engineering with a focus on power distribution and underground utilities.
Extensive field experience, including construction oversight, equipment installation, testing, and commissioning.
Deep knowledge of medium‑voltage distribution (5kV–35kV), underground cable systems, switchgear, transformers, and protective relaying.
Proven ability to interpret and develop engineering drawings, one‑lines, schematics, and civil/utility plans.
Strong understanding of utility coordination, permitting, and right‑of‑way processes.
Professional Engineer (PE) license strongly preferred.
Proficiency with engineering software such as ETAP, SKM, CYME, or similar tools.
Excellent communication skills and ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with public utilities, EPC firms, or large infrastructure programs.
Background in urban underground utility corridors or campus‑style distribution networks.
Familiarity with trenchless installation methods (HDD, microtunneling).
Experience developing standards, templates, and best‑practice guidelines for electrical infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities

Lead the engineering design and review of underground power distribution systems, including duct banks, manholes, vaults, cable systems, grounding, and protective devices.
Serve as the primary technical expert for utility coordination, system modeling, load studies, and reliability improvements.
Provide field engineering support during construction, commissioning, troubleshooting, and energization of electrical distribution equipment.
Develop and validate engineering calculations, specifications, drawings, and technical reports.
Oversee and mentor junior and mid‑level engineers; provide technical training across project teams.
Interface with utilities, municipalities, contractors, and regulatory agencies to resolve complex technical issues.
Conduct site assessments, field investigations, and constructability reviews for underground utility installations.
Ensure all designs comply with NEC, NESC, IEEE, NFPA, and utility-specific standards.
Lead root‑cause analyses for equipment failures, outages, or construction issues.
Support project managers with scope development, risk identification, cost estimating, and schedule planning.
Review contractor submittals, RFIs, and change orders for technical accuracy and alignment with project requirements.
Champion safety best practices and ensure field activities adhere to electrical safety protocols.