Primary Equipment Technician

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.; Plymouth (MI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

401(k)

Health insurance

Dental

Vision

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Paid holidays

Vacation accrual

Sick days

Family leave

Tuition assistance

Engineering programs

Wellness benefits

Job summary

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. is seeking a skilled Primary Equipment Technician to join our commissioning and field testing team. The role focuses on hands-on testing and validation of high-voltage power equipment in the field across utilities and industrial sites.

You will work with advanced test systems and document results to ensure safe, reliable operation. The position requires 3–10 years of apparatus testing/commissioning experience, the ability to read electrical diagrams, and

Qualifications

• 3–10 years of experience in apparatus testing or commissioning.
• Ability to read and interpret one-lines, three-lines, wiring diagrams and schematics.
• Hands-on experience with equipment rated from 480 V up to 765 kV.
• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or a related discipline.
• Certifications such as OSHA, NETA, or NICET are held or pursued.
• Able to work outdoors in varying climates and physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and using lifts or ladders.

Responsibilities

• Commissioning and testing power equipment including breakers, transformers, switches, CTs, PTs, and other system apparatus.
• Operating test equipment like Doble, Megger, Vanguard, and Omicron for validation, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
• Performing functional and operational testing on high-voltage apparatus.
• Conducting wiring verification to ensure proper installation and system integrity.
• Collaborating with customers, engineers, and internal teams to drive project outcomes.
• Documenting test data and supporting equipment integration activities.
• Traveling to customer sites—up to 80%.

Job description

SEL ES is seeking a skilled Primary Equipment Technician to join our commissioning and field testing team. If you enjoy hands-voltage equipment, solving real-world problems in the field, and being part of a mission-critical industry, this role could be an excellent fit. This position plays a key role in ensuring the safe, reliable operation of power system equipment across the electric utility and industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Commissioning and testing power equipment including breakers, transformers, switches, CTs, PTs, and other system apparatus
• Operating industry-leading test equipment such as Doble, Megger, Vanguard, and Omicron systems for validation, diagnostics, and troubleshooting
• Performing functional and operational testing on high-voltage apparatus
• Conducting detailed wiring verification to ensure proper installation and system integrity
• Working closely with customers, engineers, and internal teams to drive successful project outcomes
• Documenting test data and supporting equipment integration activities
• Traveling to customer sites—up to 80%

Strong Fit If You

• Bring 3-10 years of experience in apparatus testing or commissioning
• Can confidently read and interpret one-lines, three-lines, wiring diagrams, and schematics
• Have hands-on experience with equipment rated from 480 V up to 765 kV
• Know (or want to learn) test systems from Doble, Megger, Vanguard, and Omicron
• Hold an Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or a related discipline
• Possess—or are working toward—certifications such as OSHA, NETA, or NICET
• Physical requirements: Comfortable working outdoors in varying climates
• Able to stand, walk, bend, climb, squat, and use hands/arms for physical tasks
• Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and handling tools/equipment as needed
• Able to work at heights using lifts or ladders

Why Plymouth, MI

Plymouth is a vibrant community located between Detroit and Ann Arbor. Known for its historic neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and reputation as one of the safest cities in Michigan, it’s a great place for both career and home life.

Residency Benefits

• Year-round festivals and outdoor recreation
• Access to world-class cultural attractions
• A thriving business community and family-friendly environment
• Competitive pay
• Superior benefits
• Inspiring work

Additional Benefits

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees. We’re 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer-funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options. We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance. We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay. We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs. Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range

Pay Range Data $100,000 - 160,000 per year. We are open to reviewing additional candidates with more or less experience and the pay range may differ if filled at a different level. Our pay ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location. We base our starting pay offer and title on location and job‑related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills.

Equal Opportunity Employer

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.

Company Overview

SEL invents, designs, and builds digital products and systems that protect power grids around the world. This technology prevents blackouts and enables customers to improve power system reliability and safety at a reduced cost. A 100 percent employee-owned company headquartered in Pullman, Washington, SEL has manufactured products in the United States since 1984 and now serves customers worldwide. Our mission is simple: to make electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical.