Electrical Project Manager

About the role

LPA is seeking an Electrical Project Manager to join a collective of designers, engineers, and researchers committed to tackling the biggest issues of our time through an integrated design approach. In this role, you will own the electrical project delivery from initial concept through construction administration, ensuring alignment with the firm's "No Excuses" philosophy for sustainable, high-performance architecture. You will be responsible for shaping a more sustainable future by leading the technical and collaborative aspects of medium-voltage and utility systems for a diverse portfolio of projects. Your work will directly influence how the built environment addresses carbon emissions and operational efficiency. You will partner closely with architects, engineers, interior designers, landscape architects, and master planners to integrate electrical systems holistically. This position is embedded within the MEP+L Systems Engineering team, where your expertise will guide complex laboratories, health care facilities, performing arts centers, and educational environments. Ultimately, you will ensure that every project meets its environmental, economic, and social goals while adhering to strict timelines and budgets.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Prepare and/or oversee complete electrical drawings spanning schematic design, design development, and construction documents while collaborating with internal teams, architects, clients, and consultants.
• Lead the electrical design effort across the project lifecycle, coordinating with other disciplines to define precise requirements for equipment power, lighting, and special systems.
• Apply a rigorous understanding of design standards and code requirements specific to medium-voltage and utility systems to ensure compliance and performance.
• Contribute to projects of varying types, sizes, and complexities, including large-scale, technically complex assignments that incorporate emerging industry technologies.
• Develop creative and effective electrical design solutions using sound engineering judgment, evaluating alternative electrical distribution schemes based on cost, efficiency, space constraints, constructability, and performance.
• Prepare detailed project labor hour and fee estimates, review construction cost estimates, and write, edit, and develop comprehensive project specifications as required.
• Perform feasibility studies for existing facilities and electrical systems, including load analysis, capacity assessments, and future electrical requirements, while coordinating metering strategies and field surveys.
• Support construction administration activities, including punch lists, RFIs, and submittal reviews, to ensure design intent is realized in the field.
• Design and coordinate special electrical systems such as photovoltaics, emergency and standby power systems, battery energy storage systems, fire pumps, and grounding, maintaining a working knowledge of low-voltage and fire alarm systems.
• Collaborate with the team to integrate sustainable strategies that reduce carbon emissions and enhance the long-term value of each project.
• Communicate proactively with clients to align technical solutions with their vision, constraints, and performance expectations.
• Mentor junior team members by sharing knowledge and fostering an environment of continuous learning and innovation.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field as a foundational requirement for this position.
• Possess 10+ years of experience in electrical engineering, with a demonstrated focus on the design of building power and lighting systems.
• Maintain an active Professional Engineer (PE) license in Electrical Engineering, which is essential for legal authorization and project leadership.
• Show a strong understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and applicable energy codes, including the ability to efficiently locate relevant tables and requirements during design development.
• Demonstrate the ability to perform value engineering by evaluating design alternatives and developing high-level construction cost estimates to meet client or owner budget objectives.
• Exhibit extensive knowledge of electrical, building, and energy code requirements, as well as key client and owner design standards that govern project execution.
• Prove excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the capacity to coordinate effectively with clients, consultants, and internal multidisciplinary teams.
• Display strong problem-solving capabilities when addressing complex technical challenges in laboratory, healthcare, and performance-based facilities.
• Commit to a collaborative work style that thrives in an integrated design environment where all voices are valued.
• Adhere to LPA's quality assurance processes to ensure that every deliverable meets the firm's standards for sustainability and performance.

Nice to have

• Working knowledge of AutoCAD and Revit to facilitate efficient design coordination and documentation.

Practical notes

• This is a full-time engagement based in Irvine, California.
• The position includes 8 paid hours of volunteer time each year for community service.
• LPA offers access to Professional Development Grants and in-house training to support ongoing growth.
• Travel may be required for project visits, client meetings, and field reviews.
• No specific visa sponsorship details are provided in this listing.
• Applicants are encouraged to apply directly through the firm's career channels for consideration.

This role represents a meaningful opportunity to lead electrical design on projects that define the future of sustainable architecture. By joining LPA, you will contribute to a culture of innovation, equity, and environmental stewardship. The firm's commitment to community impact is reflected in millions of dollars invested in Habitat for Humanity builds, scholarships, and pro bono initiatives since 2015. You will have the chance to propose and lead projects that influence your local community while advancing your expertise in high-performance electrical systems. The position is part of a larger effort to create resilient, efficient, and inclusive built environments that respond to the urgent challenges of climate change. Professional growth is supported through mentorship from Managing Directors, Design Directors, and senior team members who provide guidance across disciplines. Continuous learning is encouraged through LPA+U courses and Tech Talks focused on innovative, sustainable practices. The firm's investment in its people is demonstrated by the Professional Development Grants program, which has impacted hundreds of employees and generated over a million dollars in educational funding. This role is ideal for a motivated Electrical Project Manager who is ready to take on significant responsibility and help shape the next generation of sustainable design.