Principal Electrical Engineer

Vogrinc Search Group; Novi (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering recruitment firm is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead innovation in medium-voltage utility applications. Candidates should have a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering and over five years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include electrical design, collaboration with customers, and oversight of prototypes. Strong skills in CAD software and customer engagement are essential. Join a team dedicated to enhancing utility standards through innovative solutions.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of engineering experience specifically within electric utility or power distribution.
• Demonstrated expertise in metering transformers, load break switches, and insulation coordination.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and lead when necessary.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical design and component selection for medium-voltage products.
• Review customer specifications to generate custom engineering packages.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers to ensure design safety and performance.

Skills

Medium-voltage product expertise

Electrical design

Customer engagement

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE)

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

SolidWorks

MS Office

Power system analysis software

Job description

Outstanding opportunity for an experienced Principal Electrical Engineer who wants to lead product development and innovation of medium‑voltage (MV) utility applications. Qualified candidates will be technical subject matter experts in pad‑mount, medium‑voltage products including primary metering cabinets and switchgear.

This highly visible role will work closely with utility customers to customize solutions that meet utility standards and identify opportunities for innovation while bridging the gap between electrical design, mechanical packaging, and practical applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead the electrical design and component selection for medium‑voltage products (5kV – 35kV), including primary metering cabinets and primary metering switchgear. Lead design and development from concept through commercialization with effective collaboration with marketing, supply chain, sales, and customer channels.
• Review utility customer specifications and utility standards to generate custom engineering packages, including Bill of Materials (BOM), three‑line diagrams, and control schematics. Ensure all designs comply with applicable industry standards (e.g., IEEE, ANSI, UL).
• Design and specify protection schemes involving relays, CTs/PTs (instrument transformers), and sensing devices.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers to ensure electrical clearances, thermal management, and safety aspects are maintained within compact pad‑mount enclosures.
• Oversee prototype builds and define test procedures at both the component level (instrument transformers, fuses, relays, load‑break switches) and system‑level products, including dielectric testing and partial discharge analysis.
• Serve as a high‑level technical resource for the sales team and customers, assisting with complex troubleshooting, installation inquiries, and field commissioning support.
• Join Voice of Customer (VOC) calls and field visits with customers to understand product use‑cases, pain points, and opportunities for product innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) required. Advanced degree/certifications/PE license a plus.
• 5+ years of engineering experience specifically within the electric utility, switchgear manufacturing, or power distribution industries and in-depth understanding of medium‑voltage power distribution, arc interruption theories, and insulation coordination.
• Demonstrated expertise in current and potential metering transformers (CTs/PTs), load break switches, medium‑voltage bushings, insulation, shielding, switchgear, and reclosers.
• Proficient in MS Office with advanced Excel skills, 2D/3D CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical, Draftsight, SolidWorks, or similar), power system analysis software, and ERP systems.
• Experience with ANSYS Electrical, PCB design and communication/control, and/or revenue metering requirements for electric utilities a plus.
• Adept at engaging customers to identify and understand pain points and develop innovative solutions in response.
• Outstanding attention to detail, ability to prioritize effectively and shift focus as needed while working on multiple projects.
• Ability to work effectively as an individual contributor and as part of a team, leading and mentoring when necessary.
• Excellent communicator, verbally and in writing and able to leverage various communication tools appropriately and effectively.

Seniority level: Associate

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Manufacturing and Electrical Equipment Manufacturing