Principal Engineer - Voltage Support Operations

DTE Energy; Detroit (MI); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

DTE Energy is seeking a Senior Level Engineer in Detroit to plan and conduct complex engineering activities across multiple domains. The role requires applying advanced engineering knowledge, guiding project teams, and delivering actionable solutions to key technical challenges.

Incumbents lead studies, mentor engineers, and collaborate with field crews and stakeholders to ensure reliable power delivery and system improvements. Hybrid in-person schedule with flexibility for site work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology required.
• Minimum 6 years of job-relevant experience in engineering.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Plans and conducts intermediate to complex engineering activities.
• Leads or participates in cross-functional teams and projects.
• Develops and presents engineering analyses to stakeholders.
• Mentors less experienced engineers and supports technical choices.

Skills

Engineering principles

Project leadership

Data analysis

Mentoring

Cross-functional teams

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology

Tools

ADMS/EMS knowledge

Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states.

But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities. When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing. Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things.

Testing Required

Not Applicable

Employment Sponsorship

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship currently.

Hybrid Role

This role is hybrid, with an established schedule of in-person work required at an assigned work location. Any remote work is expected to be performed from an employee's primary residence, unless allowed (or prohibited) through the Company's remote work guidelines.

Emergency Response

Yes – Must be available to perform a primary assignment in support of DTE's emergency response to storms or other events that impact service to our customers.

Job Summary

Senior level engineer responsible for planning and conducting intermediate to more complex engineering related activities requiring the use of creative techniques, as well as application of thorough knowledge of engineering or scientific principles and practice in multiple areas. Incumbents have the authority to makes decisions on engineering problems and methods applicable to the resolution of important issues, which may be complex at times. Participates on and leads teams, as well as develops effective relationships with key decision makers, as needed.

Key Accountabilities

• Applies strong knowledge and background of engineering and scientific principles and practices in a variety of assignments.
• Develops, coordinates, and directs critical projects or field engineering assignments that are large or complex.
• Leads or plays key role on process improvement teams.
• Initiates or performs engineering studies, proposing solutions or recommending alternatives.
• Develops presentations of engineering-related projects to stakeholders.
• Develops models and analyzes data to support improvement programs, techniques and solutions.
• Conducts studies and analyses to assist in the resolution of engineering-related issues; may assist with developing engineering standards and practices.
• Mentors and provides guidance/direction for less experienced engineers.

Minimum Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology and a minimum of 6 years of job relevant experience

Other Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Engineering or job relevant discipline
• Utility industry experience with a strong understanding of electrical distribution and sub-transmission systems.
• Experience with Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS) and/or Energy Management Systems (EMS).
• Working knowledge of voltage support equipment, including load tap changers (LTCs), voltage regulators, capacitor banks, and substation power equipment.
• Proven experience investigating and resolving power quality and voltage-related issues.
• Experience working in substations and collaborating with field crews across substation, overhead, and underground operations.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and engineering investigation skills, including the ability to perform data analysis and identify root causes.
• Experience coordinating with vendors and external partners to support project execution and issue resolution.
• Familiarity with NERC standards and compliance requirements.

Other Requirements

• Proficiency in computer applications relevant for field
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills
• Developed planning and continuous improvement skills
• Strong time management, prioritization, and organization skills
• Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams

Additional Information

Incumbents may engage in all or some combination of the activities and accountabilities, and utilize a variety of the competencies cited in this description depending upon the organization and role to which they are assigned. This description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents in this job. It is not intended as an all-inclusive list of accountabilities or responsibilities, nor is it intended to limit the rights of supervisors or management representatives to assign, direct and control the work of employees under their supervision.

PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS

At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.