Principal Electrical Engineer

Zachry Group; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Zachry Group is seeking a talented Principal Electrical Engineer to join the Electrical Department in Houston, Texas. The role focuses on leading electrical design for large-scale EPC and industrial projects, including oil & gas and power facilities.

Ideal candidates have 15+ years in industrial electrical engineering, strong knowledge of power distribution, and proficiency with ETAP/SKM/EasyPower. PE license or ability to obtain is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 15+ years of progressive electrical engineering experience in industrial, power, or EPC environments.
• Proficient with power distribution systems and electrical equipment sizing.
• Knowledge of NEC, IEEE, NFPA, API standards and related codes.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical engineering design for large EPC/industrial projects.
• Develop and review one-line diagrams, load calculations, panel/cable schedules, layouts, specs, data sheets.
• Perform power system studies (short-circuit, coordination, arc-flash, load-flow).
• Act as electrical discipline lead, providing technical direction and quality oversight.

Skills

Power distribution

Equipment sizing

Industrial codes

ETAP/SKM/EasyPower

Communication & collaboration

Multidisciplinary EPC experience

PE license

Oil & gas / LNG experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

PE license or ability to obtain

Tools

ETAP

SKM

EasyPower

Job description

Job Description

Zachry Group is currently looking talented and self-motivated

Zachry Group is currently looking talented and self-motivated Principal Electrical Engineer with design experience to join our Electrical Department in Houston, Texas. This is a great opportunity to get involved in interesting and challenging design projects for clients in various industries predominantly in oil and gas and power plants.

Responsibilities

• Lead and perform electrical engineering design for large‑scale EPC and industrial projects, including medium‑and low‑voltage power systems, substations, switchgear, MCCs, grounding, lighting, and heat tracing systems.
• Develop, review, and approve electrical engineering deliverables such as one‑line diagrams, load calculations, panel and cable schedules, layouts, technical specifications, and data sheets.
• Perform and review power system studies including short‑circuit, coordination, arc‑flash, and load‑flow analyses using applicable engineering software.
• Serve as the electrical discipline lead on assigned projects, providing technical direction, oversight, and guidance throughout all phases of execution.
• Coordinate closely with civil, structural, mechanical, and instrumentation & controls disciplines to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Interface with clients, vendors, fabricators, and construction teams to resolve technical issues and support project execution.
• Support procurement activities through technical bid evaluations, vendor document reviews, and equipment selection.
• Provide engineering support during construction, commissioning, and startup activities, including field support and issue resolution.
• Review work produced by junior and mid‑level engineers to ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance with codes, standards, and Zachry engineering practices.
• Mentor and support the professional development of engineering staff.
• Ensure compliance with applicable industry codes and standards including NEC, IEEE, NFPA, API, client requirements, and Zachry procedures.
• Promote safety, quality, and continuous improvement within the electrical engineering discipline.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
• 15+ years of progressive electrical engineering experience in industrial, power, or EPC environments
• Strong knowledge of:
• Power distribution systems
• Electrical equipment selection and sizing
• Industrial electrical codes and standards
• Experience working on multi‑discipline EPC projects
• Proficiency with engineering tools such as ETAP, SKM, EasyPower, or similar
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain
• Experience in oil & gas, LNG, petrochemical, power generation, or heavy industrial facilities
• Previous experience serving as an electrical lead on large or complex projects
• Familiarity with construction sequencing, commissioning, and startup activities
• Experience working with owner‑operators and international projects

Physical Demands

Employee will be required to communicate in person and through electronic means. Position may require visits to construction sites and industrial facilities and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Work Environment

Employee will work primarily in an office environment with periodic exposure to construction site conditions. Noise levels and physical conditions may vary depending on project location