Apprentice Electrical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

At Innovative, innovation isn't just part of our name —it's the mindset that drives everything we do.We are built by people who take ownership, challenge the status quo,and create solutions that keep the world's most critical industries running.From engineering and fabrication to installation and service,our teams collaborate to solve complex challenges with creativity, precision, and purpose.We invest in people who are passionate about making an impact,fostering a culture where innovation thrives, careers grow,and great teams build extraordinary solutions together.

Salary: $Dependent on Experience per year

Posted: 2026-08-20

Employee Type: full-time

Experience Required: 2+ Years of Experience

Education Required: BSEE or equivalent

Travel Required: No

Principal Electrical Engineer

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is the leading provider of industrial refrigeration and process cooling solutions, delivering custom engineered systems utilizing natural refrigerants such as ammonia and CO₂. Through a fully integrated approach encompassing engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, nationwide service, and advanced aftermarket solutions, Innovative supports customers across the food and beverage, cold storage, pharmaceutical, industrial manufacturing, and mission-critical infrastructure markets throughout North America and around the world.

Unlike traditional engineering firms, contractors, or equipment suppliers, Innovative performs engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, service, and ongoing customer support entirely in-house. This integrated model provides employees with the opportunity to support projects throughout the complete lifecycle, from concept and design through manufacturing, installation, startup, operation, optimization, modernization, and long-term system support.

Job Role: The Principal Electrical Engineer will lead design and implement electrical controls and power systems for industrial refrigeration projects. The role supports cross-functional project execution and ensures compliance with industry standards and company procedures.

Key Duties:

• Develop and design electrical controls and power systems
• Produce preliminary and final design drawings and documentation using CAD programs
• Complete required electrical design calculations
• Design lighting systems for industrial warehousing
• Generate controls bill of materials and take-offs
• Assist with purchasing of related materials
• Ensure designs adhere to company procedures, regulations, and client standards
• Submit design documentation to management and construction teams
• Provide support during installation to ensure compliance with design specifications
• Build Bills of Materials (BOM) and enter data into the ERP system
• Consult with fabrication teams and provide physical assistance when necessary
• Coordinate with the purchasing team on material orders
• Communicate with vendors on part specifications and fabrication
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Project Manager

Requirements:

• 3-5 years of experience in electrical system design
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience
• Proficient with AutoCAD or other CAD software (e.g., Inventor, SolidWorks)
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles
• This position is safety-sensitive and requires pre-employment and regular drug testing
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position (seated or standing) for extended periods
• Occasionally may need to lift or carry items up to 25 pounds (e.g., office supplies, small equipment)

Preferences:

• EIT License
• Interest in pursuing a PE license
• Knowledge of refrigeration systems or previous MEP experience

In addition to a competitive base salary, we provide a comprehensive and employee-focused benefits package designed to support your financial security, health, and work-life balance:

• Generous retirement plan with a dollar-for-dollar 401(k) match up to 15%
• 401(k) student loan repayment match up to 15%
• Medical insurance with 75% of employee and family premiums covered by the company
• Dental and vision insurance options
• Optional supplemental insurance coverage
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
• Company-paid life insurance
• Weekly pay
• Competitive paid vacation and holiday time
• Paid sick leave, bereavement leave, and jury duty leave
• Employee referral bonus program
• Opportunities for career advancement, professional development, training, and apprenticeship programs
• Access to employee discounts on cell phone plans, vehicle rentals, and other eligible services