Principal Electrical Engineer

Principal Electrical Engineer – Power Systems (Hybrid | Denver, CO)

Full Time |

A well‑established engineering organization in the Denver, CO area is seeking a highly experienced Principal Electrical Engineer – Power Systems to take on a senior technical leadership role. This position supports complex utility, distribution, and infrastructure projects across a wide range of commercial, industrial, municipal, and government environments. A hybrid work schedule is available. Due to project requirements, U.S. citizenship is mandatory , and the selected candidate must be able to obtain security access clearance.

About the Role

This senior‑level engineer will serve as a subject matter expert in power systems engineering, providing technical direction, oversight, and mentorship while influencing project strategy, resource allocation, and engineering standards. The role involves leading advanced design work, system studies, and major infrastructure initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain broad, in‑depth expertise in utility power distribution principles, standards, and practices
• Apply advanced engineering judgment to solve complex technical challenges
• Develop conceptual and detailed designs, engineering calculations, system analyses, and cost estimates for distribution and substation improvement projects
• Lead engineering design for sub‑transmission systems, substations, switching stations , and complex commercial/industrial distribution networks
• Create engineering packages for microgrid systems , including renewable and conventional generation assets
• Prepare, review, and approve engineering reports, design documents, and procedures
• Build and validate detailed electrical system models using ETAP or similar software
• Develop specifications for major electrical equipment and apparatus
• Maintain strong working relationships with internal teams and external clients
• Provide expertise in protection and relaying schemes for distribution systems
• Conduct field walk‑downs to confirm project requirements
• Prepare cost estimates and support construction teams throughout the project lifecycle
• Analyze fault events, power quality issues, and system loading , and support corrective action plans
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry codes and standards
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, supporting their technical development and project execution

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering with a power systems emphasis
• 12+ years of experience in the electric utility or power systems industry
• Minimum 5 years in a Lead Engineer, Supervisor, or Project Manager capacity
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required
• Expert‑level knowledge of power system analysis, distribution modeling, and protective device coordination
• Strong background in medium‑voltage substations and distribution systems
• Proficiency with project planning tools such as MS Project (or similar)
• High proficiency with power system modeling software (ETAP, SKM, EasyPower, etc.)
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop engineering staff
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams

Additional Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen
• Ability to obtain military base access clearance
• Valid driver’s license
• Up to 25% travel to project sites
• Salary range: $150,000–$185,000+ , depending on experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, 401(k) with company contribution , paid holidays, and paid time off