Electrical Engineer Associate-Principal

American Electric Power Co.; New Albany (OH); On-site; USD 75,000 - 151,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power (AEP) is seeking an entry-level engineer/engineering technologist to support assigned supervisor in applying engineering knowledge to safe, efficient and economical outcomes. The role involves learning power system basics, assisting higher-level engineers, and communicating results in reports and presentations.

This position offers a structured growth path across SG6–SG9 levels, with opportunities to advance as experience and education increase.

Qualifications

• Entry level position requiring a bachelor’s degree in engineering in an ABET-accredited program.
• Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination is encouraged for future PE licensing.

Responsibilities

• Apply engineering knowledge to well-defined problems under guidance from higher-level engineers.
• Assist with routine engineering tasks and prepare reports and technical papers.
• Develop understanding of power system operation, protection, and related equipment.

Skills

Entry level engineering knowledge

Power systems basics

Communication skills

Education

ABET-accredited bachelor's in engineering

Job description

Job Summary

Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing entry level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

Job Description

What you’ll do:

• Technical Expertise: Possesses entry-level knowledge and experience in the application of theory to solve well-defined problems or provide analysis, with guidance from higher-level engineers. Assists higher-level engineers in handling well-defined portions of more complex problems and analyses. Exhibits fundamental understanding of standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with standards, codes and regulations relevant to the area of assignment. Gains familiarity with pertinent equipment, materials, systems and business processes. Possesses fundamental knowledge of how a power system works. Understands generation, transmission, and distribution. Possesses some knowledge of protection systems and understands how protections systems impact the power system.
• Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others as required to resolve routine engineering tasks. Demonstrates working knowledge of appropriate policies and procedures; however, activities are generally monitored by higher-level employees to ensure work is performed in accordance with established guidelines. Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher-level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in both supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary. Demonstrates willingness and capabilities to assume leadership roles.
• Planning & Organization Ability: Provides input to routine project planning documents related to scheduling and understands the use of scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Monitors project status and recommend action accordingly. Prepares cost estimates using established standards. Develops understanding of the workflow for routine engineering projects. Accomplishes work according to plans and schedules established by higher-level employees.
• Problem Solving & Initiative: Actively seeks out information and understanding of engineering problems and solution techniques applicable to area of responsibility. Applies basic techniques to perform analysis associated with the resolution of routine technical problems. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities and presenting new ideas and new approaches.
• Communication: Assists and participates in the preparation of reports and technical papers. Assimilates information and instructions readily. Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing and presents ideas clearly. Listens to and understands instructions, and requests clarification as required.
• Interpersonal Skills: Begins networking with peers to share information and encourage cooperation. Understands the agendas and perspectives of others. Develops effective give-and-take relationship. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.
• Decision Making: Knows which decisions they are authorized to make. Develops decision-making skills under guidance of higher-level employees and makes routine decisions subject to review and contributes to team decision-making.
• Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates an attitude and desire to listen to and satisfy both internal and external customers who use and depend upon their organizational unit's work. Applies economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Pursues effective ways to protect and enhance the environment while providing reliable electricity at a competitive cost. Active participation in professional and business organizations is encouraged. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the department.

What we’re looking for:

Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the Associate level, with increased educational, skill or experience requirements for higher level roles.

Engineer/Engineering Technologist Associate SG6

• This is an entry level position for new graduates with a bachelor’s degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
• Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering examination in preparation for future licensing as a Professional Engineer (PE) is encouraged and preferred.

Engineer/Engineering Technologist SG7

• Has typically acquired a bachelor’s degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET* along with two (2) or more years of related engineering experience.
• Individuals with a master’s degree in engineering from an engineering program accredited by ABET* may be considered for entry into the organization at this level.

Engineer/Engineering Technologist Senior SG8

• Has typically acquired 4 or more years of related engineering experience along with a bachelor’s degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
• Or 2 years of related engineering experience along with a master’s degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*;
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is encouraged and preferred.

Engineer Principal SG9

• Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a bachelor’s degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*;
• Or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a master’s or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP.

Acceptable Alternative:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a master’s degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited bachelor’s program.** Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.

*ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

*Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology can satisfy this degree requirement, if they obtain a certified Professional Engineering (PE) license.

*VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET accredited program

In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do

At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!

American Electric Power (On-Site)

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Compensation

$74,551.00 - $151,132.50

Physical Demands

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Equal Employment Opportunity

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

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Details

AEP offers an outstanding group of people to be a part of. The AEP culture values your integrity and awards your hard work.

In this role, you'll be responsible to the assigned manager for performing intermediate level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

A P&C Field Technologist Associate is responsible for performing work associated with the programming, operation, testing and maintenance of fundamental protection and control devices and related equipment. P&C’s primary focus is understanding control circuitry and utilizing computer-based testing and analysis of devices and equipment that includes, but is not limited to, digital relays, electromechanical relays, intelligent electronic devices, Station Disturbance Recorders (SDR), Digital Fault Recorders (DFR), system event recorders, Remote Terminal Units (RTU’s) and station SCADA systems (dispatcher remote control systems), statistical load metering, telemetering and potential/current transducers. Additionally, will maintain and operate all power line carriers (PLC), tone, pilot wire, fiber and associated P&C communications over the power grid network. Within the discipline of P&C, will occasionally respond to emergency callouts at electrical substations and coordinate prompt restoration of service to customers as required. This list is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions. Employee may perform miscellaneous, related, and incidental work in addition to that specifically outlined below.

This role is responsible to the assigned manager for performing engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

AEP offers generous time off, competitive pay, and educational opportunities to help employees advance their careers.

Our culture is purpose-driven and team-oriented: we combine innovation with a customer-first focus to deliver reliable energy and brighter futures.