Electrical Research Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Reporting to the Research Manager, the Senior Research Engineer is responsible for leading strategic research projects from concept through proof of concept with minimal supervision. The role focuses on developing innovative technologies for medium- and high-voltage power systems, including switchgear, sensors, digital technologies, and data-driven solutions.

This individual combines deep technical expertise with strong project leadership to translate emerging technologies into practical solutions that support G&W Electric's innovation strategy. The Senior Research Engineer serves as a technical leader within the organization, mentors junior engineers, collaborates with universities and research partners, and represents G&W Electric in the global technical community.

• Lead complex research and innovation projects independently, from concept generation through proof of concept and technology transfer.
• Develop innovative solutions for medium- and high-voltage switchgear, sensing technologies, power system monitoring, and data-driven applications.
• Create conceptual designs, perform engineering analysis, and validate designs through simulation, laboratory testing, and field evaluations.
• Apply advanced engineering methods including electrical, electromagnetic, dielectric, thermal, structural, and multiphysics simulations.
• Design, build, and evaluate prototypes, including planning and executing laboratory testing and analyzing results.
• Prepare technical reports, invention disclosures, patent documentation, and scientific publications.
• Contribute to G&W Electric's technology roadmap and long-term innovation strategy.
• Lead feasibility studies by developing project schedules, budgets, technical plans, and resource estimates with minimal supervision.
• Work closely with New Product Development, Systems Engineering, Manufacturing, Marketing, and Global Engineering to transition new technologies into commercial products.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior research engineers and project teams.
• Support and consult other engineering organizations on specialized technical challenges within areas of expertise.
• Build and maintain collaborations with universities, national laboratories, utilities, and industry research organizations.
• Represent G&W Electric through active participation in organizations such as IEEE, CIGRE, IEC, and other technical committees.
• Present research results at national and international conferences.
• Protect G&W Electric intellectual property through patents, trade secrets, and invention disclosures.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (Master's or PhD - preferred).
• Minimum 8 years of experience in research, advanced product development, or technology development involving medium- or high-voltage equipment.
• Strong background in high-voltage engineering, including insulation systems, switching technologies, and power system applications.
• Experience leading technical projects with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to transform research concepts into validated technologies or products.
• Experience with prototype development, laboratory testing, and engineering validation.
• Strong understanding of power systems, switching transients, insulation coordination, power quality, and electromagnetic phenomena.
• Experience using engineering simulation tools (FEM, electromagnetic, thermal, structural, CFD, or similar).
• Working knowledge of CAD tools (Creo or equivalent).
• Familiarity with applicable IEEE, IEC, and related industry standards.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (approximately 10–20%).

• Master's or PhD in High Voltage Engineering, Power Systems, or related field.
• Experience with intelligent sensors, digital substations, synchronized measurements, or grid monitoring technologies.
• Experience with data analytics, AI/ML, or digital solutions applied to electric power systems.
• Experience with externally funded research programs, university collaborations, or government research grants.
• Record of patents, technical publications, or conference presentations.
• Active participation in IEEE, CIGRE, IEC, or similar professional organizations.
• Recognized technical expertise within the power industry.

The Physical Demands / Working Conditions are:

• General Office Environment, PC use
• Light Lifting (occasional 25 lbs or less)
• Standing
• Heavy Lifting (frequent 25 lbs +) – not frequent

What we offer you:

Typical pay is $96,555 –128,577 annually.

Please note the pay information shown above is a general guideline. Pay is based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications.

This position is eligible for participation in our Quarterly Incentive Pay Program

G&W Electric offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Short and Long-Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Health club membership program and reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401 (k)
• Annual Profit Sharing
• Vacation
• Air-conditioned/heated state-of-the-art manufacturing facility

About G&W Electric

Innovating since 1905, G&W Electric has grown into a global leader in engineered electrical power grid solutions. Working with us means joining a worldwide team of passionate manufacturing professionals striving to continually improve the technologies the world depends on to deliver safe, reliable electricity. Our culture is focused on employee success, so we foster an entrepreneurial environment that encourages everyone to thrive.

Learn more about our company by watching this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMtAhsdYeUQ

G&W Electric enjoys a long reputation for product quality, innovation and world-class customer service to the power industry. We have established this reputation by believing that our greatest asset is our employees. We owe our success to the initiative and talents of highly skilled individuals within our team-based organization. Our goal is to set the standard for customer satisfaction by ensuring a superior level of service, performance and innovation. As a global organization and industry leader, we are committed to cultivating an engaging work environment that embraces our core values and develops our talent. Our continuous focus on growth and innovation means that you become part of a company that provides challenging opportunities, rewards excellence and combines your individual expertise to achieve a higher level of shared success. As part of our organization, you also help power the world!

G&W Electric is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.

*G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.

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