Motor-Generator Engineer

U.S. Fusion Energy; Princeton (CA); On-site; USD 112,000 - 178,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks a Motor-Generator Engineer to oversee maintenance, testing and operation of large motor-generator sets and related systems. Responsibilities include troubleshooting, operator qualification, pre-operational checks, and implementing improvements.

Onsite work with potential relocation support for the right candidate. The role requires a BS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering (MS preferred) and at least 7 years of relevant experience in rotating

Qualifications

• BS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering; MS preferred.
• Minimum 7 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in the maintenance, testing and operation of rotating machinery for power plants and/or cycloconverter drives.
• Experience in the operation, maintenance and testing of power systems components such as switchgear, circuit breakers, transformers and protective relaying is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Plans and implements routine maintenance, testing and repair activities for the MG systems, consisting of major electrical and mechanical systems (60%).
• Directs and performs troubleshooting, as required, on the MG systems (10%).
• Obtains and maintains qualification as an operator of the motor-generator system (10%).
• Performs pre-operational performance checks of the MG systems to ensure readiness for operations (10%).
• Provides recommendations for improvements and upgrades to the system (5%).
• Acts as PTR (Princeton Technical Representative) for Motor-Generator maintenance and repair tasks involving external contractors (5%).

Skills

Technical writing

Interpersonal skills

Education

BS Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

MS Electrical or Mechanical Engineering preferred

Job description

Motor-Generator Engineer

Requisition # 2026-22246

Date Posted: 3 weeks ago (9/9/2026 9:31 AM)

Department PPPL Engineering

Category Engineering

Job Type Full-Time

Overview

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory currently uses two (2) large, stored energy, Motor-Generators, each generator rated at 450 mega-volt amperes (MVA), to supply power to the various experimental loads in support of NSTX-U operations. Each motor-generator is driven by a 15,000 HP wound-rotor induction motor rated at 13.8 KV. The motor-generator engineer ensures the successful operation, performance and maintenance of the motor-generator (MG) sets and associated systems.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Responsibilities

• Plans and implements routine maintenance, testing and repair activities for the MG systems, consisting of major electrical and mechanical systems (60%):
• Electrical – motor-generators, cyclo-converters, liquid rheostats, excitation systems, associated medium voltage switchgear, transformers, and protection, monitoring and control equipment.
• Mechanical – vibration control systems, guide bearings, thrust bearings, high pressure lube oil systems, heat exchangers, cooling water systems, brake/jack system, CO2 fire suppression systems, large rotational mechanics, air compressors
• Directs and performs troubleshooting, as required, on the MG systems (10%).
• Obtains and maintains qualification as an operator of the motor-generator system (10%).
• Performs pre-operational performance checks of the MG systems to ensure readiness for operations (10%).
• Provides recommendations for improvements and upgrades to the system (5%).
• Acts as PTR (Princeton Technical Representative) for Motor-Generator maintenance and repair tasks involving external contractors (5%).

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• BS Electrical or Mechanical Engineering. MS Electrical or Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• Minimum 7 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in the maintenance, testing and operation of rotating machinery for power plants and/or cycloconverter drives.
• Experience in the operation, maintenance and testing of power systems components such as switchgear, circuit breakers, transformers and protective relaying is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Technical writing ability for the preparation and review of technical procedures, statements of work, etc.
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations including the control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout).
• Good interpersonal skills for interacting within a team of engineers and technicians.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to work in awkward positions, confined spaces, and lift and/or move objects up to 50lbs.

Working Conditions

• Onsite position (Monday – Friday); 7-7:30 – 3-3:30 PM but there is some flexibility in start and end times, We are not supporting external visas for this position. If someone is a US Greencard holder, we can consider. We may support relocation for the right candidate.

Standard Weekly Hours

40.00

Eligible for Overtime

No

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Probationary Period

180 days

Essential Services Personnel

No

Physical Capacity Exam Required

No

Valid Driver's License Required

No

Salary Range

$111,600 to $178,200

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If you are a qualified individual with a disability and are, therefore, unable or limited in your ability to use or access this system, you can request a reasonable accommodation by contacting PPPL's Office of Human Resources at [e-mail].

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Princeton University-PPPL job offers are contingent upon the candidate’s successful completion of a background check, reference checks, and pre-employment screening, as applicable.

PPPL is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratory managed by Princeton University. The DOE prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Princeton University-PPPL is a residential community and an employer that operates continuously 24 hours a day. Essential services employees perform jobs that are necessary and required to maintain basic University operations during scheduled closures or unscheduled suspension of normal operations due to emergencies, events, or other situations. Essential services employees may be asked and/or required to perform jobs or duties that fall outside of their normal job classification during an emergency event. Learn more about our Essential Services policy.

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