Principle Electrical Engineer

Principal Electrical Engineer

Our client is seeking an experienced Principal Electrical Engineer to support large-scale combined cycle power generation projects across the region. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-visibility energy infrastructure projects for leading utility and power generation clients. Our Charlotte-based Power Generation team supports a strong and growing portfolio of combined cycle facilities, providing engineers with both long-term project stability and exposure to technically challenging work.

The environment is collaborative and fast-paced, with opportunities to lead engineering decisions, mentor teams, and directly influence project outcomes. If you are a senior electrical engineer looking to apply your expertise on critical power projects while continuing to grow your technical and leadership impact, our client offers a rewarding and stable career path.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead electrical engineering efforts for combined cycle power generation projects from conceptual design through commissioning and startup
• Establish and manage electrical design criteria, standards, and philosophies for power plant facilities
• Oversee and review electrical system designs, including:
  Generator and auxiliary systems Medium- and high-voltage power distribution Protection and control systems Grounding, lighting, and raceway systems Interfaces with instrumentation and control (I&C) and plant control systems
• Provide technical direction and oversight to electrical engineers and designers assigned to projects
• Review and approve calculations, drawings, specifications, and technical deliverables for quality and compliance
• Coordinate electrical engineering activities with mechanical, civil, structural, I&C, construction, and commissioning teams
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards, including NEC, IEEE, ANSI, NEMA, and utility or owner requirements
• Develop and support engineering cost estimates, material quantities, and execution plans
• Lead technical aspects of major electrical equipment procurement, including vendor evaluations and technical reviews
• Participate in constructability reviews, hazard analyses, and formal design reviews
• Provide technical support during construction, commissioning, and startup, including site visits as needed
• Interface directly with clients, project management, and internal leadership on technical scope, risks, and progress
• Mentor and support the development of junior and mid-level engineers

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field from an accredited institution
• 12-15 years of electrical engineering experience in power generation, with significant experience on combined cycle power plants
• Experience serving in a senior or principal engineering role on EPC or utility-scale power projects
• Strong knowledge of electrical power systems and applicable codes and standards, including NEC, IEEE, ANSI, and NEMA
• Experience supporting projects through all phases, including design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and startup

Preferred Qualifications:

• Deep technical experience with combined cycle electrical systems, including generators, auxiliary power systems, medium- and high-voltage distribution, and protection and control
• Prior experience leading or mentoring engineering teams on complex projects
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with clients, project managers, vendors, and multidisciplinary teams
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred

ESPO has a comprehensive benefits package which includes PTO, Group Health and Dental Insurance, and 401k after you have satisfied the necessary waiting periods. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value the benefits of diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity and expression, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, or any other attribute or protected characteristic by law.

If you need assistance applying, please get in touch with us directly.