Senior Electrical Engineer

Senior Electrical Engineer – Utility Scale Solar

Location: Branchburg, NJ / Hybrid / Project-Based Travel

About Vanguard Energy Partners

Vanguard Energy Partners is a leading EPC contractor specializing in utility-scale solar and energy storage projects throughout the United States. The company delivers turnkey engineering, procurement, construction, and O&M services for renewable energy infrastructure projects with a strong focus on safety, quality, and execution.

Position Summary

Vanguard Energy Partners is seeking an experienced Senior Electrical Engineer to support the engineering and execution of utility-scale solar PV and energy storage (BESS) projects. This role will lead electrical design efforts, coordinate with internal construction and project management teams, and support projects from early-stage development through commissioning and energization.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in renewable energy infrastructure, utility infrastructure, utility interconnection, medium-voltage systems, and EPC project execution. Utility-scale solar experience is strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead electrical engineering design for utility-scale solar and BESS projects
• Assist in the development and review of: Electrical drawing sets, Power system studies, Substation drawing sets, SCADA designs, Cable and conduit schedules, Grounding and system protection systems and Equipment specifications
• Support substation and medium-voltage collection system design coordination
• Coordinate with utilities, AHJs, consultants, and interconnection stakeholders
• Review power studies including: Load flow, Short circuit, Arc flash, Protection coordination, Grounding study and Thermal Ampacity
• Support procurement and technical evaluation of electrical equipment including: Inverters, Transformers, Switchgear, MV equipment and SCADA system
• Collaborate with project management and construction teams to support field execution and commissioning activities
• Ensure compliance with NEC, NESC, IEEE, utility, and client design criteria
• Provide engineering support during preconstruction, construction, commissioning, and startup phases
• Mentor junior engineers and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Participate in design reviews, value engineering, and technical problem-solving

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering required
• PE license preferred
• 7+ years of electrical engineering experience in renewable energy, power systems, or utility infrastructure
• Utility-scale solar EPC experience strongly preferred
• Experience with BESS and substations is a plus
• Strong understanding of: Medium-voltage, High Voltage systems, Substation Design, Utility interconnection requirements, Protection/Controls, SCADA/DAS, and Renewable energy design standards
• Familiarity with NEC, NESC, IEEE, and utility standards
• Experience with engineering/design software such as AutoCAD, ETAP, SKM, EasyPower, or equivalent
• Strong communication and coordination skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced project environment
• Willingness to travel to project sites as needed

Preferred Experience

• EPC contractor experience
• NERC compliance exposure
• Experience supporting projects from design through commissioning
• Familiarity with SCADA, DAS, and power monitoring systems
• Previous leadership or mentoring experience