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First Class Power Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our engineers solve challenging technology problems, and take big bets on new concepts, enabling ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists ... a world-class customer experience. About the team Diverse Experiences AWS values diverse ...

Amentum is seeking an experienced and licensed Engineer - 1st Class to support facility operations in the Washington, DC area. This senior-level stationary engineering role is responsible for the ...

Amentum is seeking an experienced and licensed Engineer - 1st Class to support facility operations in the Washington, DC area. This senior-level stationary engineering role is responsible for the ...

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First Class Power Engineer information

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$105K

$125.2K

$144.5K

How much do first class power engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for first class power engineer in the United States is $125,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Class Power Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Class Power Engineer, you need an in-depth knowledge of thermodynamics, electrical and mechanical systems, and a First Class Power Engineer certificate as mandated by regulatory authorities. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA, boiler operations, and safety codes is essential, along with ongoing training to stay current with industry standards. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of complex power and heating systems critical to industrial and commercial facilities.

What are some common challenges First Class Power Engineers face when managing large-scale industrial systems?

First Class Power Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions, adhering to stringent safety regulations, and ensuring optimal system efficiency under high-pressure conditions. Balancing preventive maintenance with reactive repairs can be demanding, especially in facilities that operate 24/7. Additionally, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including operations, maintenance, and safety personnel—requires strong communication and problem-solving skills to maintain seamless plant operations.

What is a First Class Power Engineer?

A First Class Power Engineer is a highly qualified professional responsible for operating, maintaining, and supervising large-scale power plants, boilers, and pressure vessels. They hold the highest level of certification in power engineering, which authorizes them to oversee the most complex and high-capacity energy systems. Their duties often include ensuring regulatory compliance, managing safety protocols, and leading teams of lower-class engineers and operators. To become a First Class Power Engineer, extensive training, experience, and passing rigorous examinations are required.

What is the difference between First Class Power Engineer vs Second Class Power Engineer?

AspectFirst Class Power EngineerSecond Class Power Engineer
CertificationsRequires a First Class Power Engineer CertificateRequires a Second Class Power Engineer Certificate
Work EnvironmentOperates high-pressure boilers, turbines, and complex systemsHandles routine boiler and equipment operations
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in large industrial plants, power generation, and hospitalsFound in smaller facilities, commercial buildings, and some industrial settings

First Class Power Engineers have advanced certifications allowing them to operate and oversee complex power systems, including high-pressure boilers and turbines. Second Class Power Engineers hold foundational certifications suitable for routine operations. The main difference lies in the level of certification, scope of responsibilities, and work environment. First Class Power Engineers typically work in larger, more complex facilities, while Second Class Power Engineers are often employed in smaller or less complex settings.

More about First Class Power Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for First Class Power Engineer jobs? Cities with the most First Class Power Engineer job openings:
What states have the most First Class Power Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for First Class Power Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching First Class Power Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Class Power Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various First Class Power Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,176 per year, or $60.2 per hour.

Traction Power Engineer

Michael Baker International

Linthicum, MD • On-site, Remote

$107.92K - $169.99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Michael Baker International rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 351 rated engineering


Job description

RAIL & TRANSIT PRACTICE

Whether moving people or freight, future rail and transit solutions will be determined by energy prices, a shift toward urban living and growing environmental concerns. Michael Baker helps freight, authority and state Department of Transportation clients meet these modern challenges by providing services that address key industry issues such as state of good repair, capacity, safety, community livability, asset management and maintenance, planning and development for new projects, and the promotion of environmental stewardship and sustainability.

We provide value by first understanding our clients' needs, then working with them as a partner to identify innovative and cost-effective solutions that optimize their opportunities for success.

DESCRIPTION

With a base in our local offices of Baltimore, MD, Alexandria, VA, or Philadelphia, PA Michael Baker International is seeking a talented Traction Power Engineer with a specialization in OCS or Traction Power design, to help make a difference in our Rail and Transit Practice.  Consideration will be given to full-time hybrid work for exceptional candidates. 

The Michael Baker Baltimore office has seen significant growth over the course of the last few years. Additionally, Michael Baker continues to expand its growing national rail & transit practice. To enable continued growth both locally and nationally, Michael Baker's Baltimore office seeks a Transit Traction Power Engineer who will be focused on executing technical work, mentoring junior staff, and overall growth of the Rail Transit Department. We are looking for a leader who will participate in the office leadership team while also collaborating with their counterparts in our other regional offices to provide high quality engineering services nationwide. You will be directly involved with development and implementation of a business strategy and work with project teams while also helping to win work and expand our project portfolio and client base. 

The ideal candidate will demonstrate experience on design projects for Class I railroads and/or rail transit agencies and be able to support projects and offices across the country for railroads, transit agencies, and DOTs. Senior level candidates with more than the required years of experience will be considered for the position and are encouraged to apply. 

Responsibilities include:

  • Design, direct, and/or manage traction power-related components of passenger rail, freight rail and commuter rail projects
  • Play an integral part in the development and review of plans, specifications and cost estimates for rail or transit projects
  • Assist on large multi-disciplinary design teams and lead younger staff on a variety of project tasks
  • Execute engineering investigations including feasibility and type studies with cost and risk analysis
  • Perform site inspections during construction to confirm applicable regulations
  • Coordinate with multiple disciplines for conformance to design criteria, standards, and code requirements
  • Mentoring and advising staff regarding various code compliance and industry best practices 
  • Flexible location and/or remote work based on level of experience

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or applicable degree
  • PE License
  • 5 years minimum of engineering experience; transit experience preferred
  • Senior level candidates with more than the required years of experience will be considered for the position and are encouraged to apply. 
  • Proficiency with CAD (MicroStation & AutoCAD), Microsoft Office
  • Excellent analytical skills
  • Proficiency in organization and presentation of documentation
  • Availability to occasionally travel to other local offices and job site locations
  • Possess excellent client management skills and ability to enhance and develop solid client relationships
  • Proven experience in working on multiple projects concurrently, managing project deadlines and on-time submittals
  • Strong work ethic, integrity
  • Ability to work independently as well as within a multidisciplinary team
  • Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal skills, communication skills and problem-solving ability
  • Ability to assist in developing strategic approaches and concepts
  • Experience reviewing construction plans and specifications

Senior level candidates with more than the required years of experience will be considered for the position and are encouraged to apply. 

BENEFITS 
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including: 

  • Medical, dental, vision insurance 
  • 401k Retirement Plan 
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) 
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) 
  • Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability 
  • Professional and personal development 
  • Generous paid time off 
  • Commuter and wellness benefits 

COMPENSATION
The approximate compensation range for this position is $107,921- $169,991 per year.  This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.
 

Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world's most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.
Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.
We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.
We Make a Difference.

Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.
EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.

*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.


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