Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer Principal | NEW GENERATION and Oversight Engineering

Job Posting End Date09-05-2026Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.Job Summary Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing advance engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.Job DescriptionKey Responsibilities:Collaborate with AE and EPC firms to define and implement design basis expectations for I&C systems.Ensure OT and IT systems meet design requirements and incorporate industry best practices.Manage the Operational Technology (OT) Network and associated devices for seamless system integration and communication.Implement cybersecurity best practices to safeguard control systems from threats.Facilitate communication with internal and external stakeholders to align project goals.Engage with OEMs during RFx processes to ensure compliance with technical specificationsSupport the creation of plant retrofit and new generation equipment and AE/EPC services scope documents and subsequent self-build proposals.Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop safe, reliable, and compliant control strategies.Support the development and review of technical specifications, EPC specifications, and designs.Support the construction of retrofit and/or new build projects to ensure successful implementation.Assist in managing technology evolution and addressing obsolescence concerns.Knowledge and Skills:Solid grasp of control theory, including PID, adaptive, and model predictive control.Ability to interpret and create technical documentation (e.g., System Descriptions, SAMA logic diagrams, P&IDs, schematics).Experience with servers, thin clients, network equipment, and computer-based instrumentation is a plus.Understanding of cybersecurity principles for control systems.Data analysis skills to monitor and enhance system performance.Proficiency in MS Access, Excel, Word, SQL, SharePoint, or Visual Basic is a plus.Familiarity with CEMS, renewable energy systems (solar, battery, wind), or regulatory compliance is advantageous.Strong communication skills for team collaboration.Working Conditions:Approximately 25% travel, including day trips and overnight stays (up to a week or more).Work in both indoor and outdoor environments with exposure to heat, cold, noise, dust, fumes, and operating machinery.Mandatory safety gear required at generating stations: hard hat, eye/hearing protection, steel-toed shoes with heels and non-slip soles.Adherence to site-specific safety requirements is mandatory.DESIGNATION -- onsite/in the office every day when not traveling for workWHAT YOU’LL DOTechnical Expertise: Exhibits advanced level proficiency plus advanced knowledge of a specialized technical area that enables the engineer to serve as a resource for the company in an area such as system production, underground systems, extensive control systems, thermo-hydraulic control systems, distribution standards, fossil or nuclear plant operations, etc.Leadership & Guidance: Influences the direction of thinking throughout the organizational unit as a recognized authority in an area of expertise. Leads, facilitates and coordinates work activities of others within work group, team, department, corporate entity, or those external to the company and assumes the role of project or function manager for assigned tasks.Planning & Organization Ability: Develops, recommends, and implements plans that include all scheduling, resource, and cost information and control required to address complex engineering problems that require the input and efforts of a wide array of entities both internal and external to the company.Problem Solving & Initiative: Identifies, clarifies, resolves, and initiates solutions to complex problems that require multi-functional, or organizational, interfacing and/or multi-disciplined analytical techniques. Develops opportunities and new ideas and approaches that have system-wide impact.Communication: Leads in the preparation and presentation of complex technical subjects, clearly, concisely, and persuasively, bringing in ancillary issues before senior management, professional organizations, regulatory bodies, etc. Projects credibility and competence on technical issues and has highly developed presentation skills.Interpersonal Skills: Builds teams and networks that extend through AEP, and other companies, professional organizations, regulatory agencies, and academia. Networks throughout AEP, other companies, professional organizations, and regulatory agencies.Decision Making: Possesses the experience and knowledge to make some technical decisions based on calculated risks without management review. Makes decisions affecting long range plans and goals based on analysis of highly uncertain input and outcomes. Visualizes long-term results. Makes decisions where differences of opinion are likely to exist. Makes decisions that have an impact across organizational boundaries.Business Awareness & Characteristics: Demonstrates vision in identifying business opportunities for the organizational unit. Understands how strategies and decisions impact the relationship with our customers and suppliers.WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FORHas typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*; or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET*. Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico** is preferred for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.Acceptable alternative is:(1) a Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.** Confirmation is preferred to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.***VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with an Non ABET accredited programPreferred Qualifications:Experience working with gas, coal, and renewable energy projects.Knowledge of industry best practices and emerging technologies in I&C systems.Professional Engineering (PE) license or equivalent certifications.Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, or Process Engineering.Proven experience in instrumentation and controls engineering, particularly in power generation projects.Strong understanding of gas/combustion turbine technology and GE Mark VIe control systemsHands-on experience with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and SCADA systems (e.g., AB Rockwell, Emerson Ovation, ABB Symphony, GE Mark VIe, Siemens, or Vestas is a plus).Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in complex environments.Strong understanding of OT and IT systems integration and cybersecurity practices.Familiarity with network configuration, protocols (e.g., Firewalls, Ethernet, Modbus, OPC), and datalink setup is advantageous.WHAT YOU'LL GETBase Salary: $117K - $151KIn addition to base salary, AEP offers competitive Total Rewards including: discretionary short-/long-term incentives, 401(k), pension, health insurance, vacation, educational assistance, etc. WHO WE AREAt AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER (on-site)$117K - $151K / Year#AEPCareers #LI-ONSITECompensation DataCompensation Grade:SP20-009Compensation Range:$116,255.00 - $151,132.50The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met. Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.SummaryLocation: Columbus, OHType: Full time