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The Principal Electric Engineer is a departmental subject matter expert of electrical engineer. This role is responsible for engineering and design of large complex project for the sustainable operation of our distribution, generation, and storage system. This role collaborates with a team of engineers and technicians and coordinates across the organization and external stakeholders, on large complex technical projects within their subject matter of expertise. They are specialist in electrical utility systems and products design, layout, implementations. 

The Principal Electric Engineer serves as a recognized subject matter expert (SME) across broad areas of electrical engineering and is responsible for directing engineering strategy and planning to support the safe, reliable, and sustainable operation of Consumers Energy’s distribution system. This role provides enterprise-level technical leadership, guiding the work of engineers and technicians while partnering across the organization and with external stakeholders on complex technical initiatives. The incumbent is an industry-recognized expert in electrical distribution system planning, design, and implementation.

The Principal Electric Engineer – HVD Reliability provides exceptional technical leadership with broad strategic impact across cross-departmental programs, policies, and reliability planning initiatives. This position requires a strong technical leader who is a recognized SME in subtransmission (High Voltage Distribution, or HVD) line design and planning, and who can collaborate effectively with Operations on a daily basis.

This role serves as the subject matter expert for HVD line-related assets and is responsible for managing projects and programs focused on improving overall asset health. Responsibilities include managing contracted and consulting resources engaged in inspections and asset improvement initiatives, for example, serving as the primary point of contact for pole inspection contractors.

In addition, the Principal Electric Engineer is accountable for supporting work order creation and serves as the system owner for HVD lines on the east side of the state. This includes ensuring alignment among asset condition, reliability risk, and execution strategies.

The position requires a high degree of independence and leadership in driving collaboration across Consumers Energy to achieve strategic business objectives related to HVD asset health, coordination efforts, policy development, and industry engagement. Strong application of the CE Way and Lean practices is essential to drive performance, continuous improvement, and effective HVD asset management. The evolution of this role requires an enterprise mindset and close collaboration with cross-functional groups—such as low-voltage distribution teams—to align on company-wide best practices.

The Principal Electric Engineer is also required to maintain an active storm restoration role to support Customers Energy’s commitment to serving customers during storm events.

• Perform a wide range of engineering tasks using computer-assisted design and engineering software and equipment. Assign work and provide directions to engineers and technicians to ensure timely and accurate completion of project tasks.
• Maintain accountability for compliance with applicable specifications, codes, and customer requirements by overseeing installation, manufacturing, construction, maintenance, documentation, support, and testing activities.
• Prepare technical reports and compile data related to existing and proposed electrical engineering projects and studies. Provide technical support and expertise to internal departments and personnel as needed.
• Lead the design, control, and implementation of electrical systems and products. Serve as the primary point of contact for clients on all electrical engineering project matters and manage the development and execution of electrical system solutions.
• Ensure installations and operations conform to established standards and customer requirements by overseeing electrical system specifications, technical drawings, and related documentation. Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve project issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Design, maintain, implement, and improve electrical instruments, facilities, components, equipment, and systems for industrial, commercial, and domestic applications.
• Collaborate with customers, coworkers, and external stakeholders to discuss existing or potential engineering products and projects. Monitor project progress and budgets, and report status, risks, and outcomes to upper management.
• Represent Consumers Energy in construction, manufacturing, and installation standards and specifications by participating in industry standards–making organizations and working groups.
• Consult on, review, and approve specifications for the purchase of electrical equipment and materials. Develop estimates for materials, labor, and construction costs to support budget preparation and project planning.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers, supporting continuous skill development, technical rigor, and completeness of engineering deliverables.
• Perform other duties as assigned, as necessary to support organizational goals.

• Strong organizational skills with a high level of attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Demonstrated knowledge of the theory and practical application of electric utility distribution planning, including contractor coordination, operations, and maintenance activities
• Knowledge of applicable electrical engineering codes, standards, and regulatory requirements
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate data, assess risk, and develop sound engineering solutions
• Knowledge of applicable codes related to electronic engineering
• Proficient in design and calculation software
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Knowledge of the theory and practice of electric utility distribution planning, construction, operation, and maintenance.
• Working knowledge of electric utility operation (i.e. generation, transmission and distribution of three phase alternating current power).
• Knowledge of distribution planning principles is an asset.

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited program OR Engineering degree from a non-ABET accredited program plus a Professional Engineering license with 7 years of experience in an advanced electrical engineering capacity. 
  
  • 7 years of experience in an advanced or senior electrical engineering role, demonstrating progressively increasing technical responsibility, leadership, and complexity of work is preferred